Natural ways to keep the mozzies away

Mosquito repellent plants

One of the easiest ways deter mozzies is to use mosquito repellent plants. Options include lemon balm, mint, basil, lavender, peppermint, marigolds, citronella grass and lemon trees.

They smell great, but the mosquitoes don’t like the scent, so it keeps them away. Try planting them near your entertainment areas or grow them in containers that you can move to areas when and where you need them.  

While we’re talking plants – too many crowded together can create moisture, which can attract mosquitoes, so look for ways to allow more air to flow through.

Get rid of stagnant water

Stagnant water is the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. Remove any old buckets or containers that have filled up with rain. For bird baths and pet water bowls, try to keep the water fresh by replacing it regularly.

Coffee grounds

Love the smell of freshly brewed coffee? Well, mosquitoes don’t, so make use of your coffee grounds. Dry them out, put in a bowl and singe them with a lighter to spread the aroma.

Avoid scented body products

Although some scents work as a repellent for mosquitoes, other body lotions or perfumes can attract these pests. The best thing to do is stay away from fancy smelling perfumes, colognes, body washes or lotions if you plan on spending time outside during high mosquito activity hours.  

Garlic

Just like vampires, mosquitoes aren’t big fans of garlic. If you boil it in water, strain and cool and then use the water as a spray, you can target problem outside areas (and see off any vampires that may be hanging around!).  

Lighting

Mozzies are highly attracted to light sources, especially ones that emit intense heat and brightness. ‘Anti-bug’ light globes have a yellow, opaque coating that is less detectable to mosquitoes – so consider using these in your outdoor lighting. As a result, they won’t swarm around your outdoor areas, which will mean they are less likely to spoil your evening.

Create a cross breeze

It can get seriously hot outside in the summer, even in the evening. If you use a fan (ceiling or on a stand) to help cool you down, it will also lead to fewer mosquitoes as they will seek shelter where the air is calmer.  

Make a beer trap!

Create mozzie traps by placing small glasses of beer around your outdoor area. The yeast attracts mosquitoes, and they will drown (sorry, but drinking the beer won’t help!).

Make a sugar trap

Cut a plastic bottle in half. In the bottom half add 1 tbsp of brown sugar and 1 cup of hot (not boiling or it will melt your bottle) water and mix until dissolved. When it's cool, add a tsp of yeast.

Turn the top half of the bottle upside down and place inside the bottom half (like a funnel). Use tape to seal the two edges together. Place the trap in a mosquito prone area and change the solution every two weeks.