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There are so many natural ways to keep mosquitoes away this summer, all based on science! I have shared a few of these tips off and on over the years, but today I wanted to give you an in-depth post to get you geared up for summer!

Here in Texas, we have mosquitoes (among all the other bugs), starting as early as February if the weather is warm. In the summer, they can get pretty bad with the humidity.

Mosquitoes can ruin your summer and keep you from enjoying the outdoors!

Now, you can use all of these tips to keep your yard mosquito free!

Natural Ways to Keep Mosquitoes Away This Summer

Last summer, I did a newsletter with some tips on keeping bugs away this summer. I touched on some of the best natural options, and I had many readers write in and say they really enjoyed it! I thought a full blog post on the topic would be a great way to start the summer!

These are the best PROVEN natural ways to keep mosquitoes away this summer! Many of these natural tips are controversial because many people think they are myths. If you look at the science, there are proven reasons why these natural remedies do work. Remember, it is better to use multiple methods when you are using a “home remedy” for deterring bugs. I have used these all personally with success! 

1. Basil

Basil plants are a great way to deter mosquitoes from our outdoor area. The reason? Basil plants (as well as tarragon and bay) contain a chemical called estragole. Estragole is a phenylpropene that repels insects, especially mosquitoes.

You can buy basil plants cheap and keep them around your yard, especially on patio areas. Basil oil is also an option to keep around, but it will be a little more expensive.

2.  Lavender

Did you know the scent of lavender repels mosquitoes? They do! Having lavender plants around your yard is a great natural option to keeping mosquitoes away. I have a friend who has lavender plants in pots around her house and never has mosquito issues!

Of course, lavender oil is another option, but it takes a lot to deter them with just the oil.

3. Citronella

This is an obvious choice. Citronella is notorious for deterring all types of bugs, and even registered with the EPA as an insect repellent.  I love to use citronella oil in this homemade bug spray! The cheapest and easiest way to have citronella around your yard is to have lemongrass plants! Lemongrass plants also contain citronella, so keeping these around your area is a perfect deterrent for mosquitoes. If you are able to find an actual citronella plant, this is also a great addition for your yard. I have personally had a hard time finding them, so lemongrass has been a good choice.

4. Garlic

Garlic contains an amino acid that converts to a chemical called allicin when its crushed, blended or chopped. This odor deters mosquitoes and other insects. You can keep chopped garlic in bowls outdoors, especially around eating areas. Another option is to have some garlic plants around. The plants won’t be as strong as chopping it, but it will still contribute to keeping mosquitoes away.

You can smear this on your wrists and ankles to keep bugs away. Studies show eating garlic can also excrete this odor from your skin!

5. Onion

Onion works just like garlic does! So, you can use onion or garlic (or both!).

6. Soybean Oil

This oil is found in many naturally made products for bugs, skincare and more. Studies show it keeps mosquitoes away for a long period of time. You can put it directly on your skin, or have it sitting out in a bowl near you while you are outside.

7. Mosquito Sticks

These are a neat natural option! I love these sticks because they will burn for over an hour and don’t have a strong scent. It is perfect for outdoor parties or anytime you want to enjoy being outside.

8. Coffee Grounds

Another use for coffee grounds (read more of them here)! Coffee grounds can work in two ways. The scent deters mosquitoes, so you can leave them sitting in bowl in your outside area like tables. You can also scatter the coffee around plants that tend to attract mosquitoes.  Many of my potted plants attract mosquitoes, so keeping coffee grounds on the soil is a great option.

Coffee grounds have also been known to kill mosquito larvae. If you have moist areas or water that is standing in flower beds, sprinkling the coffee around can kill the larvae.

9. Make Homemade Bug Spray

I love this bug spray! It is cheap to make and all natural. If you can’t control the environment, keeping the mosquitoes off you is the next best thing. This bug spray isn’t pungent, and it is safe for kids too!

10. Use an Ultrasonic Repeller Electronic Plug

I have used one of these inside my home for years, and it works wonders! You can use this outside or in enclosed areas like garages, patios, covered porches, or anywhere bugs might get into. It also works for other insects around the home. We have had one plugged in our hallway for years, and it really helps!

Enjoy a mosquito free summer!!

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