Since coffee grounds have such a pungent and intense smell, mosquitoes do not like to come near it. Mosquitoes are repulsed by all types of coffee, whether it is fresh, used, or burnt. The most effective way to use coffee grounds for mosquito control is by burning them, as it creates a stronger aroma.
According to the EPA, coffee grounds are a safe and effective way to keep pests away. Coffee grounds can help repel not only mosquitos but also other annoying insects like wasps and bees. Why are coffee grounds effective? Most bugs have a very strong sense of smell.
Not only do they repel mosquitoes, but also other insects such as wasps and bees. Coffee grounds are the bee's knees when it comes to staying bug bite free. Most bugs have a very strong sense of smell. Coffee grounds are very potent and even more potent once they are burned.
Mosquitoes hate the smell of lavender, citronella, clove, peppermint, basil, cedarwood, eucalyptus, peppermint, lemongrass and rosemary. They also hate smells such as smoke, for further insight, see our exploration on, does smoke keep mosquitoes away.
Lemon eucalyptus essential oil is a natural insecticide that the CDC has approved. Lemongrass, lemon balm, and peppermint can be sprayed on your skin to keep mosquitoes at bay. Other essential oils that can be used to repel mosquitoes include citronella, rosemary, and lavender.
For a "foolproof recipe" that banishes mosquitoes, combine 1/3 cup witch hazel and 1/3 cup water with 40 drops of eucalyptus essential oil. "Mosquitoes detest the strong aroma of eucalyptus, so this easy homemade mosquito repellent is sure to be a winner," says Harlow-Ellis.
Studies have shown that the scent of dryer sheets is not strong enough to deter mosquitoes for a long period of time, and they may even attract other insects.
Birds, frogs, tadpoles, fish, toads, salamanders, spiders, red-eared slider turtles and many types of insects all play vital roles in keeping the mosquito population at bay. Some creatures, like the small brown bat, can catch up to 600 mosquitoes in just one hour.
Yes: DEET. A repellent with DEET tells mosquitos to buzz off loud and clear. You'll need one with at least 20% DEET to protect your skin for several hours at a time, although more than 50% doesn't work any better (kids should use 10%-30%).
Mice typically do not like coffee grounds scattered around the kitchen. The strong aroma of coffee is generally unpleasant to mice, which can act as a deterrent.
Lemongrass contains an oil called citronella, a common mosquito repellent. Swap your summer glass of lemonade for a chilled glass of lemongrass tea or carefully use lemongrass oil on your skin for a quick mosquito repellent.
Remove Unwanted Odors
Coffee grounds contain nitrogen and carbon compounds, which have the power to remove unwanted smells. In other words, coffee grounds could become your best friend in fighting odors in your home.
Coffee grounds are effective at repelling pests because of the strong smell. The smell of coffee is repulsive to many bugs and will keep them away from treated areas.
You can try diffusing lemon eucalyptus essential oil, or purchase a natural bug spray that has lemon eucalyptus oil as the natural ingredient. Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) is the only natural ingredient that's CDC-approved as insect repellent (on par with DEET).
Mosquitoes are turned off by several natural scents, including citronella, peppermint, cedar, catnip, patchouli, lemongrass, lavender and more.
But the most important fish predator, by far, is the Gambusia affinis, commonly known as the mosquito fish. This is probably the most effective predator of mosquito larvae and is used by many mosquito control agencies to augment their control efforts.
Some studies suggest that Vicks VapoRub can help ease nerve-related foot pain, treat cracked heels, and help clear toenail fungus.
Researchers say coconut-scented soaps were among the most effective at repelling mosquitoes.
A study in Nature found that a compound in deodorants (isopropyl tetradecanoate) repelled mosquitoes by preventing them from landing on the surface coated in deodorant. In fact, there was a 56% decrease in the number of mosquito landings.
Fabric softener sheets: Super simple, super effective. Researchers don't really know what exactly it is mosquitoes hate about dryer sheets, but the proof is in the pudding. Put some in your pockets or stuff some in couches to keep the buzz at bay. Limes with cloves: Get the kids in on this one.
The only natural mosquito repellent registered with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is oil of lemon eucalyptus. But many other essential oils, such as lemongrass, clove, and patchouli, have been shown to have repelling properties as well.