Smells mosquitoes hate – five natural scents to use as repellents

Mosquitoes prefer warm, yet damp conditions so with the UK’s variable summer weather, mosquitoes are prevalent from warm spring showers in April through to damp, mild conditions in October.

Insect repellent is the most effective mosquito deterrent, but many contain DEET a powerful chemical.

Anyone looking for non-toxic repellents should consider using a range of natural scents that “mosquitoes hate”.

Eucalyptus 

Eucalyptus is one of the most hated smells among mosquitoes, according to Melanie Rose from Nationwide Pest Control.

She explained: “The reason these smells deter mosquitoes is because they produce chemicals that mosquitoes don’t like, namely linalool and geraniol.”

Using eucalyptus-scented soaps and candles is effective at keeping bugs away from your home.

Citrus 

Grapefruit is one citrus mosquitoes hate as it contains a compound called nootkatone.

Instead of spraying on a super strong repellent in the evening, try swapping to washing with Dr. Bronner’s Citrus-Orange All-One Magic Soap. 

It is an organic, fair trade, and plant-based soap that blends ethically sourced coconut oil, olive oil, jojoba oil, palm oil, hemp oil and a generous addition of pure, aromatic essential oils to make soaps that smell fantastic to the user, and disgusting to insects.

Much like a citronella candle, this soap repels mosquitoes, as the scent is fresh with an invigorating blend of orange, lemon and lime oils.

Peppermint 

Minty fragrances are unpleasant to a mosquito’s keen senses; the mere presence of peppermint plants can ward off these pesky flying insects to some degree.

For skincare, peppermint can be turned into a repellent by crushing leaves and rubbing them onto your skin, or using a peppermint-scented body wash like Dr. Bronner’s Peppermint All-One Magic Soap.

Peppermint oil is also effective at relieving itches; simply dab a small amount onto a cotton wool ball and apply it to the bite.

Rosemary

Another multipurpose herb, rosemary can be used for many things other than seasoning.

This aromatic plant is currently very popular with millions using it to help thicken hair and extend its length. But it can also be infused into lotions or sprays to create simple repellents for your body.

Lavender 

Though lavender may be a favourite scent of many people, mosquitoes would disagree. They detest the pungent scent of the purple flower and stay away at all costs.

Like most of the plants on this list, lavender can be used by extracting the oils and applying them to the skin directly or making a body spray.