If you're curious as to what scent keeps mosquitoes away, the answer, say entomologists, is citronella oil − non-toxic, all-natural, and featuring fresh, uplifting, citrussy notes.
For that reason, it's perfect for use throughout the warmer months. After all, long summer evenings spent outdoors are one of life's simple pleasures, but hosting and relaxing can quickly be ruined by the buzzing of bothersome insects.
Here, pest experts explain why the vibrant aroma is a scent that deters mosquitoes.
All prices were correct at the time of publication.
This steam-distilled citronella oil is ethically sourced, pure, cruelty-free, and bottled in the USA. The glass pipette makes it easy to use the exact amount you need.
Whether you're looking to get rid of mosquitoes in the house naturally, keep mosquitoes away from the front door, or get rid of mosquitoes from your al fresco hosting set up, the answer, say pest experts, is as simple as citronella oil, available at Amazon.
Brandon Runyon, Board Certified Entomologist at Swat Pest Management, explains, 'Citronella is a great way of repelling mosquitoes because it works to cover the lactic acid, CO2, and heat given off by humans. The strong odor of citronella works to overcome the receptors of the mosquito, actively pushing the mosquitoes away from where the people are congregating.'
And, to make it even more effective, you can always plant some mosquito repellent plants around your garden and patio to boost the natural repelling qualities of citronella oil.
How to Use Citronella Oil to Repel Mosquitoes
To use citronella oil, Brandon advises, you can apply it topically, make your own mosquito repellent, or use it in your best essential oil diffuser. My favorite is the NEOM Wellbeing Pod Luxe, which is larger than most and suitable for outdoor spaces. You can also keep mosquitoes away from windows by lightly spritzing them with citronella oil using a spray bottle.
Alternatively, you can also use citronella to repel mosquitoes by burning citronella candles, available at Amazon, or using a Citronella-Scented Torch Fuel, available at Walmart.
And, if you prefer something completely fragrance-free, the Zevo On Body Insect Repellent Aerosol, available at Walmart, is odorless, lightweight, non-greasy, and lasts for up to eight hours.
What to Shop
Below, you can shop from a selection of citronella mosquito-repelling essentials for summer, from the best candles to keep them at bay to alternative citronella oil picks and a very unexpected solution that I love for adding a touch of fun and whimsy to your patio space.
This outdoor citronella candle features three wicks for an even burn and scent dispersion, and is formulated with citronella oil to provide a natural and effective solution for keeping mosquitoes at bay. The metal bucket and handle make it easy to move wherever you need it, and you can even take it out on a picnic.
You'd be forgiven if you're confused as to why I've included this here, but disco balls actually work to repel flies and mosquitoes. The reflections cast by sunlight hitting the shiny surface throw off their sense of direction, so they then avoid the area. Like citronella oil, it's a non-toxic, natural solution.
This undiluted citronella essential oil is free of additives and fillers to ensure a strong and powerful scent. It's ideal for including in any homemade bug sprays, which can be mixed up in an amber spray bottle, available at Walmart, and used all summer long without the worry of harmful chemicals.
These citronella candles feature a floral, tasteful design, and are comprised of soy wax and natural aromas. Each candle boasts an impressive burn time of 75-80 hours, so between all three, you'll have plenty of mosquito-repelling power to last you all summer long.
I swear by these citronella coils when I'm on holiday in Greece and Spain, and they work just as well at home, too. Each individual coil has a burn time of up to seven hours and works effectively to repel mosquitoes on patios, porches, decks, and other areas with little to no breeze, with a pleasant, fresh scent as they burn.
This Bug Balm is designed to protect your skin from bug bites and melts into a luxurious oil to seal in hydration. It's designed to keep you fresh and cool on balmy evenings, and is made with natural essential oils that are safe to use directly on your skin.
Meet the Expert
Does burning coffee grounds get rid of mosquitoes? Our experts reveal everything you need to know.
For more helpful pest advice, you can sign up for our newsletter so you never miss the latest features.
