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Natural Ways to Repel Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are prevalent in wooded areas and are more commonly found at dusk. They bite and leave your skin red and itchy, with some people reacting worse than others. While you can use commercial insect sprays, they leave a strong scent and are greasy. They're also expensive and costs add up quickly over time. Use natural methods to repel mosquitoes to save money and abstain from chemicals.

Standing Water
- Keep standing water away from areas you're spending time in during the evening hours. Mosquitoes reproduce in water, so move your recycling bins and buckets to a different area. Check areas that aren't as obvious as water retention areas, such as tires, in plastic wrappers and inside toys.
Citronella
- Citronella candles keep sprays off of you and attract the mosquitoes due to the carbon dioxide they give off. Use them in a well-ventilated area and burn more than one to keep the insects away from your skin.
Clothing
- Mosquitoes are more attracted to darker clothing, so wear white, brights or pastel colors. Avoid dark blue and black.
Natural Spray
- Make a natural spray by combining apple cider vinegar with crushed parsley. Use it on a bandanna around your head or neck to avoid putting it directly on your skin.
Gardens and Vegetation
- Keep a garden where you like to spend your time during the evening. Mosquitoes don't like the scent of rosemary, catnip or marigolds. Remove weeds if you have too much vegetation surrounding your hang out locations to avoid attracting mosquitoes.

Animals & Science