The 10 Best Natural Mosquito Repellents

Few things ruin a summer evening faster than the high-pitched whine of a mosquito in your ear.
One second you’re peacefully enjoying your drink, the next you’re doing interpretive dance moves
trying to swat invisible attackers. If you’d rather not smell like a chemistry lab all season,
you might be wondering which natural mosquito repellents actually work – and
which ones are just very expensive perfume.

The short, honest answer: truly “natural” options can help, but they’re not all created equal and
most don’t last as long as conventional products like DEET or picaridin. Public health agencies
like the CDC and EPA still recommend using an EPA-registered insect repellent
when you’re in areas with a high risk of mosquito-borne diseases. Natural repellents are best
thought of as extra tools in your toolkit, not magic force fields.

With that in mind, let’s look at 10 of the best natural or plant-based mosquito repellents, how
they work, what science says about them, and how to use them safely.

1. Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE) – The MVP of Plant-Based Repellents

If you remember only one natural mosquito repellent, make it
oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE), or its refined ingredient
PMD (p-menthane-3,8-diol). This is the only plant-based active ingredient
recognized by major U.S. health agencies as providing protection comparable to low–mid strength
DEET in many situations.

Studies have found that a formulation with around 30–32% lemon eucalyptus–derived PMD can offer
high levels of protection for several hours, though typically somewhat shorter than strong DEET
products. Many commercial “natural” sprays use OLE or PMD as their star ingredient rather than
raw essential oil, which helps with consistency and safety.

How to use it smartly

• Look for products that clearly list oil of lemon eucalyptus or PMD as the active ingredient and are EPA-registered.
• Follow age warnings on the label – many brands caution against use on children under 3.
• Avoid getting it in your eyes; it can be irritating.
• Reapply as directed – plant-based repellents tend to wear off faster than stronger synthetics.

Bottom line: if you want the most evidence-backed “natural” option, OLE/PMD is your first stop.

2. Citronella – Classic, but Not a Force Field

Citronella is the poster child for natural bug repellents. You’ll find it in
candles, torches, wristbands, and sprays. The active compounds in citronella oil help mask the
scents (like carbon dioxide and skin odors) that attract mosquitoes in the first place.

Research suggests that citronella oil can significantly reduce mosquito bites, but the protection
window is often short – sometimes around two hours or less, depending on concentration and
conditions. Wind, sweat, and temperature can reduce its effectiveness. Candles, in particular,
offer only mild, localized protection, but they can make a noticeable difference in a small,
semi-sheltered area like a patio table.

Best ways to use citronella

• Citronella sprays or lotions on skin (diluted properly in a carrier oil or commercial formula).
• Multiple citronella candles or oil jars placed close to where people are sitting outdoors.
• Combine with other strategies (fans, long sleeves, OLE spray) for better coverage.

Think of citronella as a helpful team player, not the star quarterback.

3. Lavender – Mosquito Repellent That Smells Like a Spa

Lavender essential oil doesn’t just smell relaxing; it also seems to annoy
mosquitoes. Lab testing has shown lavender oil can repel mosquitoes for a short period, especially
at higher concentrations, though it generally doesn’t match DEET or OLE for duration.

As a bonus, lavender is gentle on most skin types and is sometimes used to soothe minor bites,
thanks to its calming and mildly anti-inflammatory properties.

How to use lavender against mosquitoes

• Mix a few drops of lavender essential oil into a carrier oil (like jojoba, almond, or coconut) and apply to exposed skin.
• Grow lavender plants near seating areas and pathways for some ambient protection.
• Spritz diluted lavender hydrosol on clothing or outdoor fabrics for a light repellent effect.

If you’re aiming for “cozy backyard wine night” rather than “chemical weapons test,” lavender is a lovely addition.

4. Catnip Oil – Surprisingly Powerful (If You Don’t Mind the Cats)

You might know catnip as the thing that turns cats into furry acrobats, but it’s
also one of the more promising natural mosquito repellents. The active compound,
nepetalactone, has been shown in some research to repel mosquitoes very effectively,
sometimes rivaling DEET in controlled tests.

Newer studies continue to explore catnip essential oil’s repellent power, showing significant
reductions in mosquito attraction for hours at certain concentrations. The downside? High-quality
catnip oil can be pricey, and it’s not yet as widely used in mainstream commercial repellents.

Using catnip oil wisely

• Always dilute catnip essential oil in a carrier oil – it’s potent.
• Try it on small skin areas first to check for irritation.
• Be prepared for curious neighborhood cats suddenly finding you very interesting.

For natural-repellent experimenters, catnip is a fun option with real science behind it.

5. Thyme Oil – Tiny Herb, Big Attitude

Thyme essential oil (especially from Thymus vulgaris) has shown strong repellent
effects against mosquitoes in some lab tests. Researchers have found that thyme-derived compounds
can drastically reduce mosquito landings and bites when used at adequate concentrations.

Thyme’s strong, sharp aroma is part of what drives mosquitoes away. Unfortunately, that same
intensity can be a bit much on sensitive skin, so dilution is non-negotiable.

How to use thyme oil

• Dilute heavily in a carrier oil before putting it on your skin.
• Add a few drops to outdoor candles or diffusers in outdoor spaces.
• Grow thyme in pots around your patio – it’s useful in the kitchen and mildly repellent in the garden.

If you already love cooking with thyme, letting it multitask as a mosquito deterrent is a nice bonus.

6. Soybean Oil – Under-the-Radar Repellent

Soybean oil isn’t the first thing people think of when they hear “natural mosquito
repellent,” but some commercial plant-based sprays use it as a key active ingredient. In tests,
soybean-oil–based repellents have offered a few hours of moderate protection, sometimes outlasting
other plant oils.

Because soybean oil is relatively gentle and stable, it often appears in “family-friendly” and
“sensitive skin” natural repellent formulas. On its own, it’s not a miracle worker, but combined
with other essential oils, it can improve longevity and spread on the skin.

Where soybean oil shines

• As the base in pre-made natural repellents labeled with soybean oil as an active ingredient.
• As a carrier oil to dilute stronger essential oils like citronella or lavender.
• For people with sensitive skin who can’t tolerate heavily fragranced products.

7. Neem Oil – Strong Smell, Modest Protection

Neem oil, from the neem tree (Azadirachta indica), is used in traditional medicine
and natural gardening products. Some research suggests neem oil can reduce mosquito bites, especially
when combined with coconut oil and applied frequently.

The catch? Neem has a very distinctive smell – many people would call it “intense,” “herbal,” or
“absolutely not, thank you.” It can also irritate skin for some users, so patch-testing is essential.

How to use neem safely

• Always dilute neem oil in a carrier oil (such as coconut or jojoba).
• Don’t use on broken skin, and avoid using on young children unless a pediatric provider says it’s okay.
• Use outdoors only – your couch doesn’t want to smell like neem for a week.

8. Tea Tree Oil – Double Duty for Skin and Bites

Tea tree oil (melaleuca oil) is better known for acne and scalp issues, but it also
has some insect-repellent properties. Its strong, medicinal scent can discourage mosquitoes, and some
small studies show reduced landings when it’s used at suitable concentrations.

Tea tree oil’s antifungal and antibacterial properties won’t keep mosquitoes from buzzing, but they
may help reduce infection risk if you scratch bites and you know you will.

Tips for tea tree oil

• Use only a few drops per tablespoon of carrier oil; tea tree can be irritating if too concentrated.
• Avoid using it around eyes, mouth, or on very young children.
• Use it more as a supporting player in a blend rather than your only line of defense.

9. Mosquito-Repellent Plants – Green Bodyguards for Your Yard

Planting certain fragrant herbs and flowers can help make your outdoor spaces less appealing to mosquitoes.
While simply owning the plant won’t stop bites entirely, the aroma from leaves and flowers can slightly
reduce mosquito activity in the immediate area, especially when leaves are brushed or crushed.

Some of the most popular mosquito-repellent plants include:

• Citronella grass and lemongrass
• Lavender
• Catnip
• Basil
• Mint and lemon balm (best grown in containers – they spread quickly)
• Marigolds and scented geraniums

These plants do double duty – they add color and fragrance, attract pollinators, and can be snipped for DIY
sprays or table arrangements. Just don’t expect a lavender bush to replace bug spray on a camping trip.

10. Fans, Clothing, and Other “Natural” Tricks That Actually Help

Not every natural mosquito repellent comes in a bottle. Some of the most effective “natural” strategies are
beautifully low-tech and chemical-free:

• Fans: Mosquitoes are weak fliers. A box fan or ceiling fan on a porch can dramatically cut down on bites by blowing them off course and dispersing the carbon dioxide you exhale.
• Long, loose, light-colored clothing: Long sleeves and pants create a barrier, and lighter colors are less attractive to many mosquito species.
• Timing: Limiting outdoor time at peak mosquito hours (dusk and dawn) can reduce exposure.
• Standing water control: Dumping out buckets, plant saucers, and clogged gutters removes mosquito breeding sites – prevention at the source.

Combine these tricks with natural sprays, candles, and plants, and you’ll notice a real difference in how much
you’re getting bitten.

Safety Tips for Natural Mosquito Repellents

“Natural” doesn’t automatically mean “safe for everyone in any amount.” Essential oils and plant-based products
are real bioactive chemicals, and they deserve the same respect you’d give conventional repellents.

• Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before applying them to skin.
• Patch test any new product on a small area to check for irritation or allergy.
• Avoid eye and mouth areas, and broken skin.
• Be cautious with children, pregnant people, and pets. Some oils are not safe for babies, young kids, cats, or dogs.
• Don’t rely only on mild natural repellents if you’re in an area with diseases like malaria, dengue, West Nile, or Zika. In those situations, an EPA-registered repellent with DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or OLE is the priority.

When in doubt, talk with a healthcare professional – especially if you’re pregnant, nursing, or planning travel
to areas with mosquito-borne illnesses.

Putting It All Together: Building Your Natural Mosquito Defense Plan

If you love the idea of leaning on natural mosquito repellents but also like not getting
eaten alive, the best approach is a layered one:

• Use an OLE/PMD-based spray or another proven repellent on exposed skin when mosquitoes are bad.
• Add citronella candles or jars and fans around seating areas for extra relief.
• Grow mosquito-repellent plants like lavender, citronella grass, catnip, and basil around high-use outdoor spaces.
• Experiment with lavender, catnip, or tea tree blends in carrier oil for short-term, low-intensity situations (like a quick backyard hangout).
• Keep up with housekeeping basics: remove standing water, repair screens, and wear long sleeves when possible.

You don’t have to choose between smelling like a pine forest or becoming a mosquito buffet. With smart layering
and realistic expectations, natural repellents can make summer far more comfortable.

Real-Life Experiences with Natural Mosquito Repellents

On paper, all of this sounds great. But what does it look like when you actually put these ideas into practice?
Here’s how people often use natural repellents in real-life situations – including what tends to work and what
usually disappoints.

The backyard barbecue experiment

Imagine you’re hosting a small barbecue. Instead of fogging the yard with heavy-duty chemicals, you decide to go
mostly natural. A few hours before guests arrive, you:

• Set up a strong box fan near the seating area.
• Place several citronella jar candles or lanterns in the middle of each table.
• Give guests the option of a lemon eucalyptus–based spray plus a milder lavender-and-soybean-oil blend.
• Move potted basil, mint, and lavender close to where people will be eating and mingling.

The result? Are mosquitoes gone forever? No. But most people notice fewer bites, especially if they sit near the
fan or candles and apply some type of repellent. The “natural” setup feels more like an intentional outdoor
lounge and less like a bug-control operation, which is a win if you care about atmosphere.

Camping with a hybrid strategy

Now picture a weekend camping trip near a lake, where mosquitoes are more than just annoying they may carry
disease. This is where most experienced campers use a hybrid strategy:

• For hiking at dusk or in dense brush, they apply a conventional EPA-registered repellent (often DEET or picaridin) to ensure solid protection.
• Back at the campsite, they switch to or layer in plant-based options like OLE, citronella candles, and long sleeves around the fire.
• They keep tents zipped, use mosquito nets if needed, and position gear away from standing water.

In this context, natural repellents become “nice to have” extras – they help reduce bites and add pleasant scents
around camp, but they don’t replace the heavy hitters when risk is higher.

Daily life on the patio

For everyday life – working from a patio, watering plants, or watching kids play in the yard – many people find a
simple routine works well:

• A quick mist of a plant-based repellent with OLE or citronella on arms and legs.
• A small desk fan or floor fan on the porch to keep air moving.
• Potted lavender, mint, and basil nearby, partly for looks and partly for the mild repellent effect.

The main complaint people have here is longevity: natural sprays often need reapplying more frequently,
especially in heat and humidity. Once you accept that, they become much less frustrating to use.

Common mistakes with natural repellents

There are a few recurring missteps you can easily avoid:

• Relying on scent alone: Just because you can smell lavender or citronella doesn’t mean mosquitoes are gone. You still need direct protection on skin or clothing.
• Using straight essential oils on skin: This is a fast track to irritation, rashes, or burns in some cases.
• Believing “natural = risk-free”: Some oils are toxic to pets or not recommended for kids. Always check safety guidelines.
• Ignoring standing water: No amount of essential oil can out-compete a yard full of mosquito breeding sites.

The people who have the best experiences with natural mosquito repellents treat them like one part of a broader
strategy, not a miracle cure. They combine plants, clothing, fans, and smart product choices while staying realistic
about how often they need to reapply.

Ultimately, the “best” natural mosquito repellent is the one you’ll actually use consistently: the spray that doesn’t
give you a headache, the candles you enjoy lighting, the plants you take care of, and the routines that become second
nature every time you step outside.

Conclusion

Natural mosquito repellents can absolutely take the edge off mosquito season, especially when they’re used in layers:
a solid plant-based active like oil of lemon eucalyptus on your skin, plus citronella candles, fans, repellent plants,
and simple clothing choices. They’re not perfect, and they’re not meant to handle high-risk situations alone, but
they can turn “I’m going back inside” into “Let’s sit out here a little longer.”

Whether you lean toward spa-like lavender, heavy-duty catnip oil, or a whole backyard of basil and citronella grass,
experimenting with natural repellents helps you find that sweet spot between comfort, safety, and a summer that
actually feels like summer.