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Can you keep mosquitoes away naturally?

There are countless products that claim to keep mosquitoes away naturally. But do they actually work? Some do. Here are some all natural DIY mosquito prevention tips we recommend that do really work:

  • Eliminate standing water on or near your property – no matter how small (mosquitoes need very little water to breed)
  • Install fans in your outdoor area
  • Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants in light colors to protect yourself
  • Strong smelling essential oils, including lemon eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint, can have marginal benefits if used effectively
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Natural Ways to Keep Mosquitoes Away

If your goal is reducing or preventing mosquitoes on your property, making your yard less attractive to them is absolutely the best investment of time there is.

Start by searching for potential mosquito breeding sites. Dump out or dry up any standing or stagnant water – no matter how small. Think birdbaths, swing sets, buckets, kid pools, puddles. Mosquitoes need water to hatch their eggs – even a tiny amount of water is enough. Fans have also been found to be effective at mosquito deterrence. Mosquitoes are weak flyers that will choose non-windy environments over windy environments every time.

Essential oils may also have some limited effectiveness:

  • Lemon eucalyptus oil
  • Peppermint oil
  • Catnip oil
  • Lavender oil

Can Vitamin B or coconut oil prevent mosquito bites?

Certain “experts” have suggested that taking vitamin B supplements over a long period of time will make you less attractive to mosquitoes. This is not true. Every study that’s been conducted on the subject has found that vitamin B has no effect on mosquitoes.

Similar claims have been made about topical application coconut oil. While not found to be effective on its own, coconut oil on the skin combined with essential oils may temporarily repel mosquitoes. 

While these quick and easy all natural treatments might seem like the answer to your mosquito woes, it’s important to remember that unless you address the source of the problem they will keep coming back all summer. That’s why we strongly recommend working with a professional mosquito exterminator for long term peace of mind.

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