Category: Guides

  • Does Coffee Have Roaches or Other Insects

    Does Coffee Have Roaches or Other Insects

    With a large amount of produced food, it is sometimes hard to keep an eye out for bugs. Does coffee have roaches? What about other food products? Unfortunately, massive production can lead to such cases that there might be actual bugs ground up in our food. Nevertheless, modern techniques allow people to avoid such things from happening in the majority of cases.

    [wpsm_titlebox title=”Does Coffee Have Roaches?” style=”main”] It depends on where the coffee beans are sourced from and how they are processed. However, it is generally unlikely that coffee beans would contain roaches, as these pests are not typically found in agricultural products.
    [/wpsm_titlebox]

    cockroach in front of the coffee machine

    Cockroaches Aren’t Just Hiding Under Your Fridge

    Are there cockroaches in coffee? Yes, there are. But here is why you shouldn’t be concerned:

    • Ground coffee contains no more than 4-6% of cockroaches in it.
    • Coffee beans are washed using scalding hot water to prevent disease.
    • Ground cockroaches do not have any taste or smell.

    Are there bugs in our food?

    Insects have been around for so long, and currently, they are our main rivals when it comes to the dominance on Earth. They’ve adapted to live along with humans and now make the best out of it. You certainly know about pests that invade our houses and just regular invertebrates that share our space.

    When it comes to bugs in food, it is important to understand where they are coming from. The most common problem is products going bad, which attracts pests like cockroaches and maggots. These insects should be avoided at all costs, as they can transmit diseases dangerous to people.

    Your best choice is to always pay attention to the expiration dates on your food products and dispose of anything that is past its expiration date. Keep your house clean, and don’t let the garbage stay out for too long, as it can attract unwelcome neighbors.
    In big facilities, it might be hard to keep all of the parts clean and bug-free.

    That is why our food is allowed to have a certain percentage of bugs in it. They can accidentally fall on the production line, get into the boxes, etc.

    Edible insects are also a new topic that is largely discussed. Even though they are considered to be a good source of protein, it is still an unexplored field that can cause potential troubles. There are certain species that have been eaten in many cultures for a very long time, but it is still better to avoid eating bugs if you are unsure if your body can handle it.

    Does coffee have roaches?

    You might be wondering, if cockroaches are such an invasive pest, then where they can appear other than in dark corners of your house. Well, there actually might be cockroaches in coffee that you drink from your local brewery. Don’t get scared: they are ground up with the coffee beans if the mixture gets processed in the factory.

    In addition, FDA has approved 4% to 6% of bugs in the ground foods, and as long as it doesn’t go above this number, you are safe to consume this product.

    Roaches are the kind of insects that can get everywhere, and they will feel comfortable in any place. Many people are afraid of encountering pests in their houses, but unfortunately, it can be hard to avoid them. In any case, you will know instantly if there are any cockroaches in your house.

    If you store your coffee properly, you won’t have any problems with infestation. Sticking to regular cleaning and sealing your foods will help you deal with any insects that can potentially be in your house.

    Where do they come from?

    Usually, coffee roaches appear in big factories that make pre-ground coffee. When large quantities of food products, such as coffee beans, are kept in one place, it will definitely attract a lot of cockroaches.

    They end up there looking for food and a place to hide, and it is almost impossible to prevent them from getting in. Because of that, they are being processed together with the beans and turn into the grounded coffee we are used to drinking every day.

    Of course, there won’t be a big amount of them in your drink because common sanitary measures prevent the cockroach infestations from getting out of hand. The beans go through hot water before being ground up, so even if some cockroaches got in, you shouldn’t worry about your health being affected.

    Cockroaches hide in tight, dark spaces among coffee beans and usually don’t have any interest in them, but mostly in what surrounds them. These insects are highly invasive, which is why there are a lot of rules and sanitary measures that big facilities have to follow. You can be sure that companies stick to these rules so they won’t be fined.

    Should I be scared?

    It might sound scary that there is a real possibility of having cockroaches in your coffee, but, in reality, they don’t bring any harm to you. Of course, if you are allergic to them or just don’t want to encounter these remains in your drink, you can choose to find a brewery that grinds their beans in front of the customers.

    dead roach on the table

    Processed roaches won’t have any taste, and they cannot be noticed in the coffee powder. Moreover, most people don’t even know about this fact unless they read about it somewhere on the internet.

    Live cockroaches, unfortunately, can pose a threat. They infest houses and create an environment that can potentially harm children with breathing problems, while their excrements can possibly attract more pests. The colonies can hide in tight places that are hard to reach, and in those cases, it is better to contact your local pest control.

    Some of the pesticides that you can find online are harmful both to the environment and your health, which is why you should leave the problem to the professionals.

    FAQ on Coffee & Cockroaches

    Cockroaches are disturbing creatures that invade our spaces and feast upon our food. Thus, it is only natural for people to have questions about these pests, especially if there is a chance that our food might contain them.

    Does coffee attract cockroaches?

    No, coffee doesn’t attract cockroaches. They like big amounts of food that can potentially go bad, which is the way they end up among piles of coffee beans.

    Are there bugs in the coffee?

    There is a small number of bugs in ground-up coffee, but only about 4%. This percentage is always controlled by the manufacturer to prevent the consumers from being harmed.

    What foods can contain roaches?

    Roaches prefer energy-dense, rotten food. They go out at night to find any leftovers you might have in your house. They can also be attracted to trash cans and unwashed dishes.

    Does caffeine have bugs in it?

    No. Caffeine is a chemical substance that cannot be affected by insects in any way. Coffee does contain an established amount of caffeine, but bugs do not interact with this compound.

    Do coffee beans have cockroaches?

    Coffee beans can occasionally have roaches in them if they are not stored properly. Big amounts of products attract cockroaches, so it is better to always have your coffee beans in tightly sealed packages.

    Make Sure to Check Your Products

    cup of coffee and coffee beans

    Does ground coffee have cockroaches? Unfortunately, it does. Nevertheless, you should not panic because FDA wouldn’t have allowed something potentially harmful into mass consumption. The percentage of roaches in your coffee is fairly small. What you do have to be concerned about is live cockroaches from being anywhere near your food.

    Cockroaches are a problem that is hard to control, so it is better to prevent them from entering your house rather than dealing with them when you have an infestation.

    Are you concerned that your coffee is likely to have roaches in it? In light of this information, will you stop drinking ground coffee and grind the coffee beans yourself? Tell us what you think in the comments below.

    Also read:

    References

    • That can cause potential troubles (Miklos Mezes, Szent István University):
      https://www.researchgate.net/publication/329096880_Food_safety_aspect_of_insects_A_review
    • Sticking to regular cleaning (New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, Columbia Center for Children’s Environmental Health, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York City Housing Authority, New York, New York, USA):
      https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2721864/
    • Can pose a threat (Department of Microbiology, School of Biomedical and Laboratory Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, University of Gondar Hospital Laboratory, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Department of Biology, College of Natural and Computational Sciences, University of Gondar, P.O. Box 196, Gondar, Ethiopia):
      https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4909895/
  • What Smells Do Cockroaches Hate? Using Aroma as a Weapon

    What Smells Do Cockroaches Hate? Using Aroma as a Weapon

    While there are many ways to get rid of cockroaches, it’s better to prevent their invasion before it happens. One of the methods to do it is to answer: what smell do cockroaches hate? If they hate it but you rather like it, it will be an efficient and a pleasant way to keep your household roach-free.

    With the list of smells to use against them, you feel armed and prepared. So, here is something about smells these little insects detest, and also how to apply them right. Now, prepare your nostrils: we proceed to a real fragrance of a text.

    [wpsm_titlebox title=”What Smells Do Cockroaches Hate?” style=”main”] There are a variety of smells that cockroaches hate:

    • Citrus,
    • Eucalyptus,
    • Lavender,
    • Peppermint,
    • Cinnamon.
    [/wpsm_titlebox]

    cockroaches in the hand

    Cockroach Smells Guide

    If you want to keep cockroaches away with aromatic substances, you need to:

    • Choose among the scents roaches hate.
    • Apply it where they may be.
    • Do it for a long time so they form a strong behavioral pattern to avoid your territory.

    Easily said, but there are always details to which we proceed.

    Benefits of using smells to repel roaches

    There are various ways to get rid of cockroaches: gel baits, baking soda or borax mixtures, or calling pest control services. Still, keeping them away with smells seems one of the most attractive options. Why? Because there are some benefits about it:

    • You don’t have to deal with the dead ones. In fact, you don’t even have to kill them at all.
    • You don’t put your kids or pets at risk.
    • Most smells that repel roaches are rather pleasant for humans.

    Knowing this, you can build an efficient method of keeping roaches out of your household. Just make sure the smell is strong enough for them to feel it and not too strong for your family and especially pets to tolerate it.

    There are other conveniences about using smells as roach repellents:

    • Easy to apply. You don’t have to search where roached prefer to dwell. The smell should be in the air, that’s it.
    • May be pleasant for humans. Tastes differ, of course, but most smells from the list below are usually conceived as “pleasant” rather than “disgusting” (though for each of them, there are persons who hate it).

    Scents that roaches hate

    Oh, get ready: it will be a long list. Even mentioning all the scents that repel roaches would be quite a job. So let’s focus on those that are probably among your household items or are easy to buy and apply.

    cockroach died from the smell

    Citrus fruits

    Lemon, lime, orange, grapefruit, and other citrus fruits are universally loved by humans. Not so much by insects. Any of these smells is repelling cockroaches… but only in a certain concentration. You may remember that lemon, lime, or orange peels often appear in your garbage bin, and not that it repels all the cockroaches immediately.

    So, using them must be a little harder. You can just place some slices of fresh lemon and lime in locations where you spot roaches the most often or you see most of their feces and traces. This may be efficient enough.

    To make sure, I’d recommend also spraying around some juice (if it’s concentrated, you don’t need to dilute it) where they roam. Repeat the procedure two or three times, after a day or two.

    After you succeed, it would be great to add a bit of lemon juice to the water you use for cleaning your floors. This will keep the smell unnoticeable (or pleasantly present in the background) for humans, nut for cockroaches, should they explore the chance to return, it’s a sign of danger still present.

    Yet the result is not granted. Some populations may be well accustomed to these smells because they often deal with citrus smells in waste. If so, you better try another smell for them, which may be just as pleasant for you: for example, mint.

    Mint

    Mint (in our case, peppermint) is a classical flavor for almost everything that should be pleasant, from tea and lemonade to menthol cigarettes and shisha. No, one mint tea party or hookah session will not be enough. Mint should be applied differently if you want to spoil someone’s life with it. Growing mint in your courtyard will be a good way to repel them even outside your house.

    As for indoor use, if the roaches are already in, you can use it as an oil, diluted with water, the same way as you do with other essential oils.

    cockroach on green leaves

    Eucalyptus

    Koalas may adore it. But roaches, being nowhere as cute, detest this Australian scent. So, using eucalyptus essential oil is a good idea to keep them away. This tree works as a guard even if it’s made small and put into a small bottle of essential oil.

    It’s recommended to apply the oil not all-around your household but mostly where you locate the roaches’ nest or where they frequent the most. In the kitchen, at your garbage bin, or in the closet where you store food. It’s better to remove all the food before applying it, of course.

    The recommended ratio is 3 oz of water and 10 drops of eucalyptus essential oil. Then spray this mixture around the infested area. If you keep seeing cockroaches or their traces in a day or two, you better reapply it. Repeat until they’re gone.

    The problem is that eucalyptus smell is not as universally loved by humans as, say, mint or citric scents. If you or some of your family members dislikes it, you better try something else, which may be just as efficient against insects. And must be much easier to grow, should you ever want a live plant instead of processed oils. For example, lavender.

    Lavender

    Lavender oil for roaches is a well-known repellent. But there are some populations resistant to it; maybe they even sort of like it. If it’s the case with your uninvited guests, you’ll have to find another aromatic repellent for them.

    If you want to try it, the best way of using it is spraying. Spray a little of it where roaches often appear: on their roads or near the nest. If your population is sensitive to it, it will quickly react and call the movers to find a new street address. If not… Then you’re gonna need a bigger bottle.

    And, by the way, living lavender will also be great for keeping roaches away around your house. So some plants in your courtyard may work as a sort of barbed wire for cockroaches.

    Cedar

    But if you judge by the touch, cedar (as a conifer) feels much more like barbed wire with its sharp shoots. So is its sharp aroma, famous enough to be also produced as an essential oil. Growing a natural cedar (no matter which kind) in your yard is a long work, it takes decades. So we’re left with essential oil, which isn’t hard to find.

    a live cockroach on a white background

    The natural cedar fragrance is quite strong and even amplified in essential oil. So I’d recommend diluting it before using. It’s not as sweet as lavender, and you’ll probably prefer it not so strong.

    Tea tree

    There are some species collectively known as “tea tree,” and the scent they produce is really that of tea (though it’s a different plant altogether). Some say it helps with the sort of exorcising you need. Others, though, argue that the efficiency of this essential oil (in what other form are we supposed to use it?) is, to say the least, doubtable. The deterring effect is very low if any.

    Yet the greatest thing about these oils is that they fill your household with aromas. Driving the cockroaches away will be just a side effect. So, if you just like its scent around, you may also hope it helps against insects.

    Cypress

    Hello, is your name Dr. Greenthumb? If not, I won’t recommend you growing real cypresses around your house. Especially if you’re not going to wait 30-40 years for these trees to reach their height. Cypress essential oil, though, it just what you need if you want to try.

    Though its success is not universally proven, there are reports that it helps to drive roaches away. And I wouldn’t dismiss these reports, given how diverse roach populations and breeds are. Some may really be sensitive to cypress oil. The method of using it is generic: mix it with water and spray where you have spotted them.

    By the way, if a thought of weed just crossed your mind… just don’t. Not only does weed itself just attract cockroaches, no matter how thick the smoke. But if you abuse it, you may one day slide into the lifestyle that roaches adore, with the mess in your room, dishes unwashed, bed unmade, and so on. Not that I mind it as a recreation, but it’s another reason to keep roaches away rather than a tool for that.

    How to use smells to repel cockroaches

    As most of these smells above are floral, it gives us some options in terms of how to use them – mostly the choice is between natural and processed forms. What do roaches hate the most? That’s the first thing for you to learn by trial and error. Then find your method of applying what you’ve chosen.

    Plant natural plants

    dead cockroach near plants

    With plants like lavender, it makes sense to have them live in your courtyard or even an apartment (if you are into flower growing). This is more than just eco: this provides a pleasant look along with a good smell. Of course, plants require some care, but it’s fun, unlike taking care of cockroaches.

    Choose essential oils

    Essential oils are the form in which most of these smells are available, especially tree aromas. You can buy cypress, cedar, eucalyptus, or other essential oils, so you don’t have to grow a real eucalyptus or cypress tree in your courtyard. If it can ever grow there.

    These oils can provide what you need – a strong smell carried by the essence of the tree, preserved by specially crafted oils that keep these fluid substances controllable. A small bottle of essential oil can contain enough smell to fill a large house with it multiple times.

    Concentrated juices

    When it comes to lemon or lime juice, they are better when fresh, but only for cocktails. Unless you’re seriously going to treat your roaches with a sort of daiquiri or mojito, you don’t need it freshly squeezed. It’s just easier to buy it concentrated.

    Dilute before applying

    Why are essential oils called essential? Because they are essential, that is, highly concentrated. The smell they provide is, yes, strong enough to repel cockroaches. But it may as well repel you and your family. So to minimize it, you can do the following:

    • Dilute it with water. Usually, it will take more water and a little oil (like 3 oz and 10 drops). If the smell is still felt, it’s okay. It works fine with, say, eucalyptus oil, and is said to work well with cypress or cedar oils.
    • Dilute it with a mixture of water and vinegar. This recipe is said to work with tea tree oil (though you may try it in other forms because its efficiency is questionable).

    cockroach on a wooden floorIf you want it to act faster, you may use higher concentration. But usually, there’s no need to.

    Spray it around

    Not all around, of course. Apply it the same way that you do with various poisons. Take some time to spot where cockroaches in your household prefer to appear and where they are seen the most frequently. It’s great if you find the nest, but if you just uncover their roads, that’s fine too.

    Then spray a little oil, juice, or whatever you choose down at these roads or spots. This is where they will surely feel that intolerable smell and seriously think of moving somewhere else. Isn’t that what you want?

    Spraying has some advantages:

    • Easy to apply;
    • The smell stays for some time, making it impossible for the roaches to dismiss;
    • Can be applied where you cannot put a tray (including vertical surfaces);
    • Requires no extra liquid.

    Finding a spray bottle (if your oil didn’t come with it somehow) is no big issue. As you spray the liquid around, the concentration of it remains high, and the area you can apply it to is also larger. Mind the surface you spray it onto: for example, wood or cardboard can absorb the smell. And when it comes to repelling roaches, it’s just for the better.

    Alternatives

    As you read this, you may think using scents to repel cockroaches is the best method. No, in fact, it’s just the most pleasant one. It doesn’t require dealing with the dead or using lethal poison (if your moral codex goes that far).

    But if it doesn’t help, you’ll have to switch to gel baits, borax or baking soda with sugar, and other WMD for roaches. The good thing is that you haven’t wasted the money anyway: a good scent is always useful.

    FAQ

    To concentrate the knowledge like a juice, I address some questions raised the most frequently by the idea of exorcising these infernal creatures with smells.

    What smell do cockroaches hate the most?

    What smells repel cockroaches depends on the population. Various populations may have different preferences about both the smells they love and those they detest. Among those listed above, you’ll need to find your own aromatic weapon, and it may take more than one try.

    a cockroach died on a wooden floor

    What are cockroaches afraid of?

    It differs, but mostly it’s light (that’s why you mostly see them in the night), cleanliness (which means hunger and thirst for them), and certain smells. Again, it may be very individual for various populations, so you need to try your approach. If a certain smell doesn’t deter them, try another.

    What smell do roaches love?

    There is nothing special about what they love to smell: sugar, honey, cheese, meat – well, I’m in it too! But it means these smells should not prevail in your kitchen if you don’t want to invite these little creatures. Instead, override these with those they hate.

    Do dead cockroaches attract more?

    Yes, and that’s because of another smell they adore. This time, it’s oleic acid which smells quite strongly. Roaches can consume their dead as well (no fava beans and chianti required), and yes, a dead body attracts others. That’s how poisons work, by the way: one poisoned roach kills more.

    My Neighbor Cocoro / Smelled Away

    If it’s not the most efficient way to get rid of roaches, it’s arguably the most pleasant. Among what smells keep roaches away there’s one you’re going to enjoy; just pick it and watch them leave. Just be consistent and continue this aroma practice even after you haven’t seen a single one for a while.

    Have you ever tried to smell your neighbors away? Did you succeed? What smell would you prefer to use for this purpose? And could it be that it will become your new habit to keep this aroma around? Welcome to the comments, let’s speak aromas!

    Also read:

    References

    • It’s a different plant altogether (Wikipedia):
      https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melaleuca
  • How to Prevent Cockroaches in Bedroom: Protect Your Sleep

    How to Prevent Cockroaches in Bedroom: Protect Your Sleep

    While usually cockroaches prefer to be where the food is (in kitchens or closets), sometimes their kingdom expands further. How to prevent cockroaches in bedroom from appearing there? The most logical answer is to get rid of them in your entire household. But while this lengthy process lasts, you may want to protect your sleep additionally.

    And there are some measures you can take to keep bed roaches out. These methods will let you relax a bit while in the rest of your house this war goes on. Just don’t settle for it.

    [wpsm_titlebox title=”How to Prevent Cockroaches in Bedroom?” style=”main”] The best way to prevent cockroaches in your bedroom is to keep your room clean and free of food and water sources that they can find. Make sure to vacuum and sweep regularly, and keep your food in sealed containers. You can also try using roach traps or baits to help control the population.
    [/wpsm_titlebox]

    Anti-Cockroach in Bedroom Guide

    search for cockroaches in the bedroom

    In short, this is what to do:

    1. Leave no food or other attraction.
    2. Keep it isolated.
    3. Use aromas or other deterrents.
    4. Apply generic measures for extinguishing roaches if necessary.

    Of course, you hope you can just keep them away. But it may take more than closed doors and canceled breakfasts in bed.

    How roaches get into bedroom and why?

    Everybody who’s had any experience with cockroaches knows: they prefer to live where there’s food, water, and darkness. That’s why they are mostly found in kitchens and closets, rarely venturing outside of them. But if they have made it to your bedroom, it may mean one of the following things:

    • There are too many cockroaches. So they feel too tight in the kitchen.
    • You have something attractive for them in your bedroom. Like food remains, humidity, or darkness. A roach on bed may be in search of bread drops you left after your breakfast.
    • You just don’t close your doors. Cockroaches’ nocturnal lifestyle enables them to go there while they sleep. And this is the most unpleasant thing.

    This may result in cockroaches biting you. Roaches are not likely to bite a living human, rather to flee, but bed roaches deal with sleeping humans, which changes the situation.

    Signs of roaches in your bedroom

    The signs that cockroaches are in your bedroom are quite generic:

    • You see a roach. If there’s one to be seen, there must be at least a dozen you missed.
    • Roach droppings. They leave feces on the floor, and these dark dots are hard to ignore.
    • Dead roaches. Especially if you have occasionally applied some poison.
    • Sudden itch in your skin that you leave exposed (especially fingers and face). It might be other insects as well, but if you know for sure cockroaches are in your house, it’s a reason to take a closer look.

    As for that “cockroach-in-my-room-can’t-sleep” feeling, this may also indicate something. But it can last even after they’re actually gone, returning as flashbacks. One more reason to eradicate them as quickly as possible.

    roach on the bed cover

    How to prevent them from going into your bedroom

    There are multiple methods of keeping them away. What you need to acknowledge first is that extinguishing roaches in your entire household and keeping them out of your bedroom are two different jobs. While you conduct your anti-roach campaign, they still appear here and there, and it will take time for them to perish.

    In your bedroom, you need results quickly, as sleep is your primary need, while the kitchen can wait. So in your kitchen or corridor, you better wage war on them, but your bedroom should be the territory of peace they don’t even dare to enter.

    How do you achieve that? Here’s some recommendations:

    • Keep the doors to your bedroom closed. Ventilation doesn’t require opening them.
    • Weather-seal your windows.
    • Check the cracks on the walls and along the baseboards. Seal each one you detect.
    • Examine the room to see if there’s any left. If you discover a nest there, things will necessarily get dirty, as you’ll have to apply the same methods (gel baits, borax, or other stuff) as elsewhere. But it’s rarely the case.
    • Pay more attention to your closet. They may hide in dark places, including drawers, linen piles, pockets of your clothes, and so on.
    • Give up eating in bed or near it. Drops on the floor are an invitation for roaches to enter.
    • Use aromas known as cockroach deterrents. There is an entire list of them, including citrus fruit, mint, thyme, as well as cedar, cypress, or peppermint oils. You need to select the one that you prefer because it’s you who’ll supposedly sleep there. Maybe you’ll get used to it enough to retain the habit even after the cockroaches are gone.
    • Keep the room clean all the time you conduct your roach hunt.

    All these measures, though, only make sense if in the meantime you do what it takes to extinguish these roaches all over your household. Place gel baits where they like to roam. Use borax or baking soda with sugar to poison them. Apply methods that have proven efficient against roaches.

    Review your eating habits to avoid inviting cockroaches by offering them a rich charity menu of food remains. Pay attention even to one roach you notice. Keep your borax prepared to apply it as soon as you spot this insect at night.

    And – last but not least – after you win, don’t let them return. This means that you should not only keep your bedroom clean and protected. Knowing how to get rid of roaches in room means starting in your kitchen. So take care of the waste you remove and the clothes you wash in public services, the products you buy and the cleanliness of your kitchen.

    FAQ on Cockroaches in Bedroom Prevention

    The essentials of roach prevention need to be addressed directly. There may be questions beyond how to keep roaches out of your room; let’s get to them.

    What attracts roaches to your bedroom?

    Mostly, that is something to eat: food drops, for example, if you enjoy breakfasts in bed or nighttime snacks. It’s also your lack of attention that makes them feel safe. Finally, they may find it attractive to bite humans in their sleep.

    What smells keep roaches away?

    There is a whole array of such smells, like peppermint, cedarwood, or cypress oil. They also detest citronella, mint, thyme, basil, or citrus fruit. You can apply any of them in your bedroom; just don’t forget that it should feel good to you.

    Why are there suddenly so many cockroaches in my house?

    They might have been attracted by lots of waste and food remains, humidity, and places to hide. And there are never suddenly many of them: colonies take time to grow. They must have hidden well. Another reason for you to pay more attention the next time.

    Bedroom Is a Part of Your House

    cockroach caught in bedroom

    So, the most correct answer to how to keep roaches out of your bedroom is to keep them out of your house. But while you de-roach your entire household, you can make this process a little faster in your bedroom, to get more quality sleep time while you’re busy fighting them. Keep it clean, use smells, and close the door as soon as you get in.

    Have you ever had this unpleasant experience? How did you manage to get them roaches out? What did you use on them, and did they ever dare to return? Share your success story with us in the comments if you please!

    Also read:

  • How to Keep Cockroaches Away at Night: Your Bed Is Your Fortress

    How to Keep Cockroaches Away at Night: Your Bed Is Your Fortress

    Living with cockroaches is not much of a pleasure. We know you know about gel traps, chemicals, pest control, and stuff. But, first, it will take time for these measures to take effect. Second, it may not be your place where you have to spend a night or several with these creatures. There’s a more specific problem: how to keep cockroaches away at night.

    And there are some tricks that will prevent them from crawling on your skin. No matter if it’s your place where you’re free to act, or you’re renting it and thus have limited possibilities. Now, let’s take a closer look at distracting them from your bed and (as a maximum) getting rid of them completely.

    [wpsm_titlebox title=”How to Keep Cockroaches Away at Night?” style=”main”] You can keep cockroaches away at night by taking some simple precautions:

    • Most importantly, don’t leave food or water out overnight. Make sure that your food is properly sealed and stored away.
    • Keep your counters and floors clean.
    • Take out the trash regularly.
    [/wpsm_titlebox]

    roach in the dark

    Guide on the Nights Without Roaches

    The problem of how to prevent cockroaches in bedroom is a part of a larger problem, but if it’s the bedroom that you’re concerned with, there are two ways of solving the problem:

    • Exterminating the roaches that are already there;
    • Repelling those that may enter.

    There are methods for both stages, and while we assume the rest of the house remains infested, it impacts what we should do to let no cockroach on the bed wake you up.

    Why roaches come to your house?

    Usually, roaches are attracted by three things: food, water, and safety (the latter means darkness and places where humans rarely look). All three can be found mostly in kitchens and closets, but bedrooms also have a lot to offer. Did you know, for example, that cockroaches can consume dead skin cells that are abundant in bedrooms and in beds?

    As for safety, they can easily hide in linen piles and in wardrobes. Let alone cracks in the floor or in the walls.

    Chances are even higher if you have a habit of nighttime snacks. If it’s hot and you’re sweating, it’s the humidity roaches adore too. And if you (or the building owners) rarely vacuum your bedroom, the chances grow even higher. It also depends on the climate: in hot latitudes, roaches are likelier to find what they want in the bedroom.

    So, now we focus on the bedroom. We assume that it’s either your household that’s already getting the overall treatment (at least, it’s scheduled), or you’re renting it and have neither possibility nor intention to de-roach the entire property. Otherwise, the problem would cover the entire household, won’t it? But if now you only want a roach-free bedroom, let’s focus on it.

    Signs that you probably have a roach problem

    There are several signs that cockroaches are around. The most obvious are the following:

    • You see roaches. Or feel them if it happens in the dark of the night;
    • You feel the roach smell. Once you’ve felt it, you’ll never forget it;
    • You observe roach feces or smear marks;
    • You find roach oothecas – egg capsules. Once you see it, you know it;
    • You find shed roach skin.

    cockroach crawls into bed

    Any of these signs is enough to take the danger of roaches seriously. In your household, you probably spot these signs in your kitchen first, so you are prepared to meet them in other places, like a bedroom. But if it’s a rented place, it may really take you by surprise.

    How to sleep in a room with cockroaches

    So, the bedroom with roaches is now a given. Regardless of how you got there, it’s an immediate problem to solve. So, focus on getting roaches away from this room.

    • Find their nests in the room and remove them. Not only do cockroaches sleep in wardrobes and drawers: they can be under the bed or the wardrobe, in the cracks in walls, in window frames. Their traces will tell you where to search for the nearest colony. As you find it, use the most efficient way to kill it. Poisons, household products like borax and baking soda, or gel traps are great. But you can also physically kill as many of them as you reach.
    • Use gel traps or sugar with borax/soda, even after you’ve destroyed the nests. These traps, in addition, will distract them from a bed where your body might otherwise attract them. If you’re going to a place where the chance of meeting roaches is above zero, you may place a tube or two of specialized gel in your luggage.
    • Fix all the cracks in the floor and the walls. You may need permission from the host if it’s not your property.
    • Keep the doors and the windows shut tightly as you sleep. Of course, it’s not always possible, especially in hot, humid areas.
    • Remove food and water from your room. Even if you often enjoy a snack in the nighttime, you better leave your room and go to the kitchen or even outside for this ritual.
    • Use repelling scents. Again, if they are very aggressive, you better consult the host; otherwise, your tourist rating may suffer.

    cockroach on a biting pear

    When it comes to scents, it’s recommended to use those well-tried. For example, mint and citrus fruit scents are well-known for their ability to keep roaches away. The concentration, though, should not be too high for you to sleep normally.

    How to avoid cockroaches while sleeping

    You may want to add an extra protection layer to your bed. It makes sense because luring roaches away or poisoning them takes time, and you want some good sleep as soon as possible. For this, you may do the following:

    • Raise it as high above the floor as possible. Though roaches are capable of climbing up vertical surfaces, the legs of the bed are often too smooth for them.
    • Place traps under the legs of the bed. This is the point where they can enter, so catch them there.
    • Move the bed from the wall, so roaches cannot use the wall to climb up to you. Keep it at least one foot away from the nearest wall or further if possible. Again, if you’re not at home, you better ask for permission to do so. It’s also a good idea to set some traps between the bed and the nearest wall.
    • Sleep with lights on. It depends on how prepared you are for this. It won’t always help: roaches can get accustomed to it either. But it might be worth a shot.
    • Spray some strong smell around before you go to sleep. It may require a special carrier if you don’t want this scent to remain there after the roaches are exorcised (or after you check out). A wooden plank or a small log will do.
    • If you like it exotic, get yourself a gecko. I’m not serious, but nevertheless.

    With your bed protected like this, roaches won’t bother you in your sleep, even if they do crawl around on the floor all night long. Knowing how to keep roaches away from the bed will save you miles of nerves if you spend a night or two someplace where you’re not going to return and not going to bother about any permanent solution.

    roach on the bedroom floor

    Last but not least: don’t be too shy to complain. If you have found the property via Airbnb or Booking, or any other site, you have a legal right to write about these roaches in your review. Maybe when the owner reads this, it will motivate them to do this job for the next guests and save them some unpleasant moments.

    No matter how friendly they try to appear: no approach justifies a roach in the bedroom. If you’re lucky, you can even get a refund for this.

    FAQ

    All you need to know to react fast as you see even one roach. Or even assume there might be some.

    Will cockroaches crawl on me at night?

    Yes, a roach in bed can crawl on you. Some even have a disgusting habit of biting living humans. Most, though, just explore a big warm and potentially tasty object. Sounds great, doesn’t it? Especially if it ends up in your ear or mouth. That’s why you should prevent these interventions if you have a reason to think cucarachas are around.

    Will keeping lights on keep cockroaches away?

    With cockroaches’ nocturnal way of life, most of them are indeed afraid of light. But not all. When the place is overpopulated, some of them will necessarily venture out, like crusaders or conquistadors. So the light won’t stop them, like the light of Christianity didn’t save Constantinople from them.

    What causes the sudden appearance of cockroaches?

    It’s sudden only for us humans. In fact, it’s logical that roaches settle everywhere they find food, water, and safety. In our case, though, the reason why they appear suddenly is that nobody has mentioned them on Airbnb or Booking.com. Then you’ll have to be the first.

    A cockroach was caught in the bedroom

    If I see one cockroach, are there more?

    Yes, for each one you see, there are dozens or even thousands of those you don’t (unless it’s a single one, but let’s be realists). So take the most serious measures even if you only see one or two of them.

    Roach-a-Bye Baby!

    What I wish to you all is always sleep like a baby. No matter if roaches crawl to your property or you travel some places where they come as a free bonus to bed and breakfast. Knowing how to keep roaches away from your bed can be an easier and simpler solution if your problem is temporary.

    The same applies if you have already started getting rid of roaches in your household but don’t want to tolerate them in your bedroom in the meantime.

    What about your experience? Have you tried any of these methods, or maybe some other? How did they work? I’d like you to leave a comment down here and share what worked for you!

    Also read:

    References

    • Ootheca (Wikipedia):
      https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ootheca
    • A gecko (Reptile Follower – Wayne):
      https://reptilefollower.com/do-geckos-eat-roaches/
    • Get a refund (By Brooke Rolfe for Daily Mail Australia):
      https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-5239097/British-Airbnb-guests-outrage-host-roach-complaints.html
  • How to Get Rid of Roaches in Car: No Passengers Allowed

    How to Get Rid of Roaches in Car: No Passengers Allowed

    If one’s home is said to be one’s fortress, then one’s car is even more of that. You may allow passengers, but hardly are these small, fast runners on the list. Not only because they are unpleasant: they are more dangerous than they seem. Let’s see how to get rid of roaches in the car. And because your home isn’t constantly moving and does not contain so many mechanical and electronical parts in it, the story will be a bit different from your kitchen wars.

    [wpsm_titlebox title=”How to Get Rid of Roaches in Car?” style=”main”] The best way to get rid of roaches in your car is to keep it clean. Vacuum regularly, and don’t forget to clean under the seats. You can also try roach traps, which can be placed under the seats or in other areas where roaches like to hide.
    [/wpsm_titlebox]

    Roaches in Car Trouble Guide

    As you see a cockroach in car, hardly do you think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship. Rather the beginning of a long campaign. Because it’s not enough to get rid of them once: you need to make sure they won’t come back tomorrow. And this requires not a single extinction campaign but a new app-roach.

    cockroach inside the car

    Why roaches in your car might be dangerous?

    I could have just pasted a fragment about damage roaches deal to your kitchen. They may make it to your food storage (though first they just explore the waste), they will leave their droppings and bode fragments, and they transmit various bacteria that can be dangerous on their own.

    You know that, but in your car, roaches can also damage any vital system – simply because they are hungry, and their bodies may cause short circuits.

    In addition, roaches are a sign that you do something wrong. They come as they smell some waste; they stay if they have somewhere to hide. Your car needs cleaning, and this habit of yours (even if it’s just a situation you’ve got into) can be dangerous too. They also usually come out at night, so if you spot one in the daylight, inside, it may be Joe’s Apartment sort of thing.

    Finally, there is an anecdotic yet real danger that if you happen to particularly dislike these insects, spotting one of them as you drive can make you lose control. Will it result in an accident? I’d rather not check.

    How to get rid of cockroaches in the car

    Here are some recommendations on how to get roaches out of your car. Assume there are always more of them: if you spot one in plain sight, there must be dozens. They prefer to settle under the seats because the remains of your food are most probably there.

    Gel Baits

    Poisoned gel baits are a well-checked method of getting rid of cockroaches. The poison in these baits kills the insects slowly enough for them to spread the substance across their colonies. The process takes 1-3 days for a single roach and probably up to a week.

    For humans and pets, it’s harmless. So if you need, you can keep using your car with gel baits working in the meantime.

    Usually, it takes 5-10 gel baits for the population. Here are the places where you should put these gel baits:

    • Under the seats. This is where the most food remains get.
    • Glove compartment. A great warm place where they like to be.
    • Places where you have seen cockroaches. If they dare to venture out while you’re around, they probably do even more in your absence.

    Other places where cockroaches are likely to have their nests are door frames and speakers. But hardly will you want to place these gel baits there.

    NB. If you have applied the baits and still observe roaches in your car, try a different brand. Breeds may be sensitive to certain agents and resist others.

    Borax

    This is also an old versatile way of getting rid of various insects. You may use it with water and sugar or with honey because insects won’t eat the powder but will gladly consume a liquid that contains it. Yet you can just apply a lot of powder, so as the roach goes through it, the agent gets through their body cover slowly. The principles of using borax baits are the same as those for gel baits.

    If you prefer to treat them with sweet poison, here are some recipes:

    • Mix dry borax and sweet powder. Use it on roaches’ routes. Sweetness will attract them.
    • Mix borax and sugar and add some water to keep the bait thick yet liquid. Place drops of it where you usually place gel baits.
    • Add borax to egg yolks, peanut butter, or honey.

    You are already visualizing how you will clean your car after applying these sticky mixes. Relax: you will have to clean it anyway after the extinction. So these baits will not change the picture. Though, of course, you better drive less while.

    Roach bombs

    Also known as bug bombs, these foggers are not expensive and have proven quite efficient when it comes to insect elimination. You will have to leave your car alone for several days after using it, though, so choose the date carefully. On the other hand, are you ready to ride with roaches one more day? So, get your bomb and do the following:

    1. Find the moment when you won’t need your car for two or three days. It will take some time.
    2. Vacuum it thoroughly. In the process, you will deprive them roaches of their habitual food. Pay attention to child seats if you have any: there’s usually more debris. This is half the job, but not all of it.
    3. Find a distant ventilated area where to park your car for a while. No public parking, and probably not your garage. A place at the back of your backyard will do.
    4. Place a roach bomb (also known as a bug bomb) in the middle of your car. Then another one in the trunk.
    5. Cover the car with plastic so it stays hermetic. The poison will remain inside for long enough to kill the roaches.
    6. After the period of time specified in the bomb manual, wait for two or three hours. In fact, choose any time you prefer, but a bit later than specified.
    7. Ventilate the car. Open all the windows and doors and let the poison out. It will take several hours.
    8. Vacuum the car again. Not only are there dead roaches to remove, but the remains of the poison too. After vacuuming, clean the surfaces with sanitizer.

    roach in hand

    This experience is not among the most pleasant, so you’d rather not repeat it. So, here comes the next question: prevention.

    How to prevent roaches from entering your car

    A simple sign “Roaches not allowed” will not help. Roaches can’t read. What they can do is run fast and smell the food. They can also get to your car without noticing this – in clothes, home items, or boxes you transport. So, what should you do to avoid their presence?

    • Keep the car clean. Of course, when you’re focused on driving and traffic, you just won’t care about that small bastard. But they don’t get in on the move. They enter the car as it stands still, and you can take your measures not to assist them.
    • Avoid eating in the car. That’s where these small crumbs come from, and cockroach in car will find it good here. If Big Macs in the car are the necessary evil of your lifestyle, well, at least get its interior cleaned after that.
    • Keep away from garbage bins and drains. These are the traditional places for roaches to come to – and as well from.
    • Check everything you bring into your car. Clothes, linen, boxes, suitcases, everything that may have a cockroach getting in the car. You better do it away from your vehicle to make sure there isn’t one.

    FAQ

    If you want the most crucial questions answered briefly and then proceed to detailed instructions, here are the answers.

    What is the fastest way to get rid of roaches in a car?

    Chemical. Poison is the best way to get them all. You can use a bug bomb or traditional methods like borax or gel baits. It’s up to you to choose one.

    What kills roaches in a vehicle?

    There are many ways to kill roaches. The problem is not to kill but to extinguish them. Among all the methods, I’d recommend poisoning them. All the ways I mentioned in the previous answer imply using various types of poison.

    Why do I keep finding roaches in my car?

    Because they settled here. A single female might get there and lie eggs, and here’s a colony. To avoid their reintroduction, follow the rules and keep your car clean. In addition, prevent them from settling by checking everything you bring inside.

    cockroach caught by the paw

    Can I bomb my car for roaches?

    I hope you’re not speaking about just blowing your car to kingdom come along with unwanted guests. A roach bomb for car, though, is a good and well-checked method of extinguishing them. I described it in more detail in the relevant section.

    Move It, Roach!

    Knowing how to get roaches out of the car, there is one thing left to do: act. Though I doubt you really want to tolerate these small creatures in your car longer than necessary. Choose your weapon and destroy the enemies… before they deal significant damage to you and your car. Mankind has invented enough methods for you to apply to them. Probably we’ll never win this war on a global scale, but your personal mission is quite realistic.

    Have you already encountered these creatures as uninvited passengers? How did you get rid of them? What method proved the most efficient? Tell us about your stories in the comments if you wish!

    Also read:

  • Does Cedar Repel Mosquitoes and Should You Use It?

    Does Cedar Repel Mosquitoes and Should You Use It?

    Mosquitoes are a big problem every summer. There are many natural sprays that offer protection against mosquitoes, and cedar oil is a popular ingredient. But does cedar repel mosquitoes well, and is it enough to repel insects for a long time? We’ll try to see what the science says about its effectiveness and how you can make a DIY bug spray at home, as well as some other tips on how to use cedar oil.

    Does Cedar Oil Repel Mosquitoes and Why?

    [wpsm_titlebox title=”Cedar oil, also called cedarwood oil, has lots of useful effects:” style=”main”]
    1. its scent repels mosquitoes and other insects like termites;
    2. it’s very safe, so you can safely use it on your skin;
    3. its a part of many natural sprays;
    4. mulch can repel mosquitoes from the outside areas in summer.
    [/wpsm_titlebox]

    cedar tree branches

    How does cedar oil kill mosquitoes?

    There are lots of essential oils that reportedly repel mosquitoes, and evergreen is a well-known natural remedy. But how does cedar oil repel mosquitoes?

    It has been long known for its insecticide activity. All the way back in the 1960s, it has been registered as a pesticide to repel moths from clothing. The United States Environmental Protection Agency believes cedarwood oil to be safe to use for humans and has no harmful effect on health and the environment.

    How to use cedar oil for mosquitoes

    This oil can be derived from the wood of cedar, juniper, and cypress trees. It’s one of the safest essential oils that are absolutely safe to apply to skin and use as a natural remedy. There are many mosquito repellents that contain this ingredient. You can also make an effective spray on your own if you combine it with some other essential oils.

    You’re going to need:

    • 15 drops of cedarwood oil, lemongrass oil, eucalyptus oil, and rosemary oil.
    • Spray bottle.
    • 1 tbsp of vodka.
    • Distilled water.

    cedar wood oil

    Do cedar chips repel mosquitoes?

    Evergreen oil is very effective on its own, but what about wood? Can you use chips and cedarwood to repel mosquitoes, and how exactly can it work?

    Cedar products, including chips, blocks, shavings, and mulch, are registered as pesticides. The chemicals and aromas cedarwood contains repel the mosquitoes and other insects and additionally keep your soil moist and healthy. It’s way pricier than conventional mulch, but using it in the areas where you entertain guests can give you good protection.

    Is cedar mosquito repellent effective?

    There’s no systematic research into how effective this oil is against mosquitoes. Complex bug sprays that contain cedarwood oil and other ingredients like eucalyptus and lemongrass showed effectiveness for up to 8 hours.
    According to the Center of Disease Control and the Environmental Protection Agency, cedarwood oil can be used as an organic pesticide. The effectiveness will be better combined with eucalyptus, and it can be a good alternative to the bug sprays that contain DEET.

    How to Use Cedar as Mosquito Protection: FAQ

    If you want to use it to protect yourself from mosquitoes, there are several ways you can do that. Even though it’s considered safe, there are some questions and things you should know before you use it.

    Does cedar mulch repel mosquitoes?

    Yes, mulch has a very potent aroma, which the mosquitoes don’t like. If you use the mulch around your flower beds and your lawn, it can make this space safer from mosquitoes. It will also keep your plants healthy because it has good antifungal properties.

    cedar red mulch

    Will cedar mulch attract termites?

    It has been used for decades as an effective way to repel termites. Because of the chemicals in the wood, it keeps the termites and several other insects away from your plants and property.

    Is cedarwood the same as cedar oil?

    It’s derived from cedarwood and some other types of plants. The difference between them comes in a form. It can be sold in the form of shavings, mulch, chips, pieces, and logs, while cedar oil is an essential oil. You can buy it in pure form or in sprays.

    Is cedar mulch safe for dogs?

    Mulch is pet-friendly. These products are marked as safe to use if you have animals or young children. They’re not toxic, and the mulch is usually really finely shredded, so even if your dog tries to eat it, it will just digest the bits.

    Does Cedar Repel Mosquitoes Well?

    Cedarwood is a unique plant that contains lots of chemicals that act like organic pesticides. It’s also one of the safest natural remedies because it’s not toxic and can be safely applied to the skin. Popular insect repellants are made in the form of spray with essential oil. Another option is chips, used as a much. When you put it in the outside areas, the pleasant but potent aroma it has keeps away the mosquitoes and other insects.

    I’d love to know about your experience with cedarwood. Let me know if it worked for you in the comments.

    Also read:

  • Does Tea Tree Oil Repel Mosquitoes: A Full Guide on How to Use It

    Does Tea Tree Oil Repel Mosquitoes: A Full Guide on How to Use It

    Everybody knows what massive problem mosquitoes make, and how difficult it is at times to protect yourself against them. There are all kinds of things that people say can protect you from bites, including tea tree extract. But how does tea tree oil repel mosquitoes and what does the research say about it? We’ll try to find out if it’s good protection against insects and how you can use it at home and outdoors.

    Does Tea Tree Oil Keep Mosquitoes Away?

    [wpsm_titlebox title=”Here’s how Tea Tree Oil works:” style=”main”]
    • it has a powerful aroma that keeps away the mosquitoes;
    • it has anti-inflammatory qualities that can treat insect bites;
    • aside from mosquitoes, it also works on flies, crickets, and other insects;
    • use it in a spray with other extracts for a stronger effect.
    [/wpsm_titlebox]

    tea tree oil on white background

    Does tea tree oil repel mosquitoes and why

    The common feature of many natural sprays and mosquito deterrents is that they contain essential oils from various plants. They have potent smells and aromas, which many insects, including mosquitoes, don’t like and try to avoid.
    Tea tree does just that: it repels mosquitoes and other insects like cockroaches and wasps.

    Many people use tea tree oil for mosquito bites because it has a soothing and anti-inflammatory effect.

    How to use tea tree oil against mosquitoes

    If you want to use it as a repellent, there are a couple of ways you can do that. It’s most effective as a repellent when you use it as an essential oil because of the strong scent it has. It’s not recommended to apply them to your skin, because in high concentration, it can cause irritation and dermatitis. Instead, use a body spray that is safe to apply to your skin and very easy to make.

    How to make a tea tree oil mosquito repellent spray at home

    There is a number of natural sprays sold online, but this easy treatment is quick to make. It can not only protect you against mosquitoes but against other insects too. If you add other natural ingredients to it, the effect will be better.

    You will need:

    1. 20 drops of each oil:
        • tea tree;
        • citronella;
        • lemongrass;
        • lavender;
        • geranium.
    2. A spray bottle.
    3. 1 tbsp of vodka or rubbing alcohol.
    4. Distilled water.

    To make your DIY insect repellant, all you need is to add the drops to the spray bottle and mix them well with alcohol and water. This concentration is safe to apply to your skin and can protect you against mosquitoes.

    woman using mosquito repellent

    Is tea tree oil as mosquito repellent effective?

    There aren’t a lot of studies done to test how effective it is against mosquitoes. Here’s what we know so far:

    • Some types of tea tree oil can potentially give long-term protection.
    • It’s safe to use on your skin in the form of a spray.
    • You should never ingest tea tree products because it leads to confusion and weakened muscle control.
    • It can be used in a diffusor in combination with other extracts to act as an in-house repellant.

    Does tea tree oil repel mosquitoes for long? That remains a question because time and effectiveness haven’t been studied well.

    Do Mosquitoes Hate Tea Tree Oil: FAQ

    Tea tree has lots of properties that make it very popular for house use and as a medicine. It’s used as an antiseptic and insect repellant in many natural sprays and home remedies. Let’s look at some questions about tea tree and insects.

    What insects does tea tree repel?

    It has been of interest as a natural insecticide for quite a long time. There have been studies that found it had repelling properties against bush flies, crickets, mosquitoes, horn flies, hornets, wasps, and others.

    Will tea tree stop mosquitoes from biting?

    There are many alternatives to insect sprays that contain DEET, and tea tree is one of them. People use it alone or in combination with cedar and citronella to make mosquito-repellant sprays.

    Can tea tree be used as an insecticide?

    It has insect-killing properties and can even be effective against larvae of insects. Like all-natural remedies, though, it has limited ability, so if you’re facing a serious infestation or if you find it not effective – use traditional bug sprays with DEET.

    Does Tea Tree Oil Repel Mosquitoes Effectively?

    This extract is a great insect repellent that is widely used against mosquitoes. Bodysprays with tea tree keep them away for hours and protect your skin against bites. Studies on how does tea tree oil repel mosquitoes say it has insecticide properties not only against mosquitoes but against flies, cockroaches, crickets, horn flies, and others. You can use it in a body spray or diffusor and apply drops of tea tree to your clothes.

    Have you ever used tea tree oil against mosquitoes? Let me know in the comments!

    Also read:

  • Does Rosemary Repel Mosquitoes? Plant-Based Repellent in Detail

    Does Rosemary Repel Mosquitoes? Plant-Based Repellent in Detail

    The market offers a wide variety of mosquito repellents based on distinct plants. Herbal-based solutions always seem credible to customers, especially when it comes to products applied directly to the skin. Nowadays, we are more environmentally conscious and pay more attention to global issues except for the price and expiration date. In this article, I will explain whether herbal remedies are a marketing trick or a way to care for your health and the environment. I will answer the main question: Does rosemary repel mosquitoes?

    Guide on How to Use Rosemary to Repel Mosquitoes

    Here are the basic principles of rosemary-based means regardless of their formula:

    • Apply them only to the exposed skin and clothing;
    • Do not use such products on the areas around your eyes and mouth;
    • Do not spray them on the face;
    • Neither inhale a spray nor use it on food.

    rosemary on a plate

    Does Rosemary Oil Repel Mosquitoes: Brief Research

    Like all herbal remedies, rosemary is unlikely to be as effective as DEET. However, natural products are often chosen not because of their high efficiency but due to their safety for human health. Let’s start with the effectiveness of plant-based products.

    According to the research on mosquito prevention, the most effective was one of the products that contained soybean, geranium, and coconut oils. Its repellent effect lasted more than three hours. Other studies with citronella, geranium, basil, garlic, and peppermint gave less lasting results (about two hours or less). Rosemary showed repellency effectiveness for up to an hour and a half at concentrations of 1, 2.5, and 5 mg/cm2. Thus, herbal remedies are considered to be effective but do not expect them to last as long as DEET because oil is in-between effective mosquito repellents and your safety.

    How to Use Rosemary to Repel Mosquitoes?

    If none of the ready-to-use products seems reliable to you, there are simple recipes for homemade repellents. All these solutions are divided into two groups: The first is based on the essential oil, and the second contains dried herbs. They rarely consist of a single ingredient, so I recommend adding other plants to rosemary for a longer effect. Here is one of the recipes you might like to try:

    1. Add 1 cup of dried rosemary to a quart (32 ounces) of water.
    2. Boil it for 20 to 30 minutes.
    3. Add a quart of cool water.
    4. Pour the blend into squirt bottles and apply it directly to the skin and outdoor pets.
    5. Store the unused portions in the refrigerator until the strong rosemary scent wears off.

    ground rosemary

    Is It Effective?

    Does rosemary deter mosquitoes? To answer this question, you need to understand the mechanism of how repellent plants work, so I will use some terminology. All plants that can repel insects are divided into three groups, according to their actionable principle:

    • the first affects the nerve endings of mosquito olfactory organs and prevents insects from choosing an object for nutrition;
    • the second spoils the taste and smell in direct contact with the treated surface;
    • the third type neutralizes or destroys natural odors that attract these pests.

    Such plants do not affect mosquitoes directly but make you unappealing to them. Speaking about the effect of plant-based insect repellents on mosquitoes, scientists claim that rosemary has repelling capacities, reducing attractive signals such as kairomones, water vapor, and temperature.

    FAQ About Rosemary Mosquito Repellent

    After summarizing the rosemary plant mosquito repellent effect, let’s move on to practical issues. Here are the questions that might arise after you decide to grow rosemary in your garden.

    What is the best plant to keep mosquitoes away?

    Lemon eucalyptus is considered the best plant to keep mosquitoes away as it has the same level of effectiveness as low-concentrated DEET. Other mosquito repellents showed lower results, in particular, the effect of rosemary oil lasted for about an hour.

    Which insects does rosemary attract?

    Although rosemary is not the best plant for repelling mosquitoes, the good news is that it brings pollinators to your garden. Rosemary attracts a variety of bee species (mason bees, bumblebees, mining bees, honey bees) and butterflies, primarily swallowtails.

    bumblebee on flowers

    What can you not plant near rosemary?

    It is necessary to choose the right plants as neighbors for rosemary in your garden. For example, mint and basil require completely different treatment; however, you can grow lavender next to rosemary since it is often used in mosquito sprays.

    Rosemary Mosquito Repellent: Safety Is First

    Most mosquito species can’t significantly harm humans, but some can spread diseases. In this article, I’ve focused on the effectiveness of rosemary and mentioned other herbs with repellent properties. Does rosemary keep mosquitoes away? It has shown a medium rate of effectiveness: The effect lasts nearly an hour. Although DEET products provide better results, herbal remedies are considered safer for the skin and airways. If safety is your priority, do not expect fantastic results: Natural recipes rarely last long. Which effective methods of mosquito control do you know? Please, share them in the comments.

    Also read:

  • Does Garlic Repel Mosquitoes? Review Of The “Smelly” Insecticide

    Does Garlic Repel Mosquitoes? Review Of The “Smelly” Insecticide

    Garlic is the vegetable which has a rather specific smell, but what on Earth can’t you do to protect yourself from buzzing bloodsuckers? Does garlic repel mosquitoes? Let’s see if it’s worth it.

    Can You Get Rid of Mosquitoes With Garlic Or How To Deal With Annoying Insects?

    [wpsm_titlebox title=”Garlic against Mosquitos:” style=”main”]
    1. Garlic is an effective repellant due to its sulfur compounds.
    2. There are quite a few options for its use, ranging from eating raw garlic to various oils and sprays.
    3. The effectiveness of garlic has been proven by scientific experiments. It works not only against mosquitoes.
    [/wpsm_titlebox]

    Mosquitoes are one of the natural disasters in the summer and are often referred to as pests. The World Health Organization consider them the deadliest animals on the planet because of the diseases they carry. More than 3000 mosquito species are found globally. No matter if mosquitoes carry disease in your area, their bites are unpleasant, itchy and potentially allergenic. Accordingly, the issue of protection against these insects is quite relevant in the warm season.

    garlic on a plate

    Does Garlic Repel Mosquitoes And Why?

    Garlic works well as a natural insect repellant for people, brittle trees, bushes, and lawns that traditional chemical treatments can harm. It is a natural compound that is effective enough to compete with some synthetic products since it contains the amino acid alliin.

    When a clove of garlic is crushed, chopped, or finely cut, the enzymes convert alliin to the sulfur compound allicin. This cleavage product does not only give garlic its characteristic features but also has some specific properties. Thus, some people, insects and animals do not like the smell of garlic and therefore stay away because allicin is associated with potential danger for mosquitoes and could even be deadly for some of their types.

    How To Use Garlic To Repel Mosquitoes

    There is quite a challenge on how to get rid of mosquitoes with garlic.

    • It is widely believed that eating garlic can repel mosquitoes, but studies have not confirmed this. When garlic enters our body, allicin — an active substance with a pungent odor — begins to emerge through the skin pores along with sweat and repel insects.
    • Eating plenty of freshly ground raw garlic can protect you from mosquitoes, both from breath odor and from sulfur compounds excreted through the skin. However, the only way to eat that much raw garlic is to chop it up and eat it with spoons which might not be an option for social situations or could cause heartburn.
    • There are also garlic pills to repel mosquitoes. They come in several options: the first is pills that are taken an hour before the expected contact with mosquitoes, and the second is accepted throughout the season. Application schemes are described in the instructions, and you can purchase the pills at the pharmacy.
    • Garlic powder also works well against mosquitoes. It can simply be eaten, but as with fresh garlic, you will need a fairly large amount. It’s better to mix it with vegetable oil and rub it into the skin before going outside or burn it like incense.
    • Let’s see how to use garlic to repel mosquitoes. Rubbing garlic oil into the skin seems like a better solution than mosquito repellent. Garlic oil also has a soothing and antibacterial effect, making the skin softer and smoother.
    • To make a natural repellant, mix 2 chopped garlic cloves with 250 ml of vegetable oil in a glass. Sunflower or olive oil are considered neutral oils and could be used for the purpose. Let the mixture stand overnight so that the oil can absorb the smell of the garlic.

    sunflower oil

    • Garlic tablets to prevent mosquito bites also work. They need to be burned like incense. The main thing is not to use the tablets indoors, this method is only for open spaces. A dried garlic or its peel can be a good substitute for it at home.
    • Let’s talk about how to make garlic spray for mosquitoes. Everything is quite simple: you need to crush or finely chop a clove of garlic into 1 cup of hot water, let it brew for 12 hours, and you’re done. Pour it into a spray bottle and apply every few hours while walking in the park or forest.
    • In addition, you can sprinkle the area with finely chopped garlic — then mosquitoes will never fly up not only to you but also to your house. Garlic tea, for example, is a well-known home remedy for pests such as aphids, fungus gnats, ants, and even voles.

    Is It Effective?

    Scientists continue to conduct research on the effectiveness of garlic as a repellant. At the moment, there is still a debate about whether garlic kills mosquitoes. However, all the studies have shown its effectiveness as a repellant. In addition, on an industrial scale, garlic-based sprays and repellent oils are produced and can be easily bought in stores and pharmacies.

    FAQ

    How much garlic do I need to keep mosquitoes away?

    It all depends on how often you use garlic and what method you have chosen for yourself. On average, from one clove to 1 head.

    Does eating garlic keep bugs away?

    Yes, garlic is an effective insecticide against, for example, aphids, the Colorado potato beetle, and some caterpillars.

    Is Onion a mosquito repellent?

    Yes, because onions also contain allicin, one of the most common substances in mosquito repellants.

    Does Garlic Repel Mosquitoes?

    Garlic as a mosquito repellent is used widely and variably. This vegetable, despite its pungent smell, can become your true friend in the fight against mosquitoes. There are many options for use which you may choose according to your taste. By the way, are you confused by the smell of garlic or are you ready to try it as a repellant?

    Also read:

  • Does Lemon Repel Mosquitoes? How To Keep Buzzing Squadron Away

    Does Lemon Repel Mosquitoes? How To Keep Buzzing Squadron Away

    Sour yellow fruit, in addition to the mass of vitamins, can also be useful in… the fight against mosquitoes! Does lemon repel mosquitoes? At least that’s how it’s considered. Let’s figure it out.

    Does Lemon Repel Mosquitoes? Complete Guide On The Natural Repellent

    [wpsm_titlebox title=”Lemon Against Mosquitos:” style=”main”]
    1. Lemon effectively fights not only mosquitoes but also other insects, although it does not repel 100% of them.
    2. There are many ways to use lemon as a repellant, ranging from oil or spray to pieces of fruit.
    3. It’s not for those with allergies or asthma.
    [/wpsm_titlebox]

    Unlike insecticides, chemicals that kill insects, this product is harmless to both adults and children. It should be approached with caution by those who suffer from individual intolerance of its constituent components. The smell of such a product is specific.

    lemon tree

    Does Lemon Repel Mosquitoes And Why?

    How do lemons keep mosquitoes away? The reason that makes the lemon effective is its smell. The fact is that mosquitoes do not tolerate the aromas of essential oils contained in citrus fruits, as well as the spicy smell of cloves. Plants, such as lemongrass and citronella, which these parasites prefer to fly around, also provide effective “fighting” mosquitoes. That’s the specifics of these harmful insects: aromas that are pleasant to humans are simply repugnant to them. Such smells are called repellents, which in Latin means “repulsive”.

    How to Use Lemon to Repel Mosquitoes

    Let’s figure out how you can use lemon to protect against mosquitoes.

    • A method that many have probably heard of is lemon and cloves. You need to take a ripe lemon, cut it into 4 parts and stick dried cloves into the peel and pulp. The smell is quite rich and pleasant.
    • It is worth using the product indoors because the concentration of oils outside is too small and the product won’t work. Like any other plants containing essential oils, lemon and cloves can cause allergies, although this happens quite rarely. Artificial aroma oils and fragrances can be quite unpleasant and cause discomfort.
    • As for cloves, the smell of this spice can cause headaches for the inhabitants of the house, if the recipe is not followed and the concentration of the spice is exceeded.
    • You can also make lemon juice mosquito repellant. Everything is pretty simple. Squeeze lemon juice, add a few drops of citrus essential oil of your choice and use as a spray. But this variant is a bit controversial because it’s not clear: does lemon juice repel mosquitoes by itself or because of essential oils added?
    • You can also use lemon oil for mosquito repellent. Just apply lemon or other citrus oil to your wrist and neck. Or apply it to an incense stick.
    • Here goes one more option for lemon mosquito repellent: fresh or dried lemon peel can be spread around the room or used for incense.

    lemon oil

    Is It Effective?

    Yes, all methods are effective to some extent. Anyway, it is worth remembering that they will not completely scare away mosquitoes, but only reduce their number. The option with fumigation and application of essential oil or spray is suitable for outdoor use. Lemons with cloves are intended for indoor use.

    FAQ

    What smells do mosquitoes hate?

    As you probably know, mosquitoes are quite picky when it comes to scents. For example, they do not tolerate the smell of cloves, eucalyptus, cinnamon, basil, anise. (By the way, mites also avoid eucalyptus.) If there are no natural plants, the essential oil will do.

    Do spiders hate lemon?

    Yes, spiders also dislike lemon because of its pungent smell. For example, rub the lemon peel on the door of the house and the spiders will not get inside.

    Are bugs attracted to lemons?

    No. Beetles, like other insects, do not like the smell of citrus fruits, including lemon.

    A Delicious Fruit and A Good Repellant

    As you can see, lemon will help to cope not only with mosquitoes. There are many ways to use it and you can choose the one that is convenient for you personally. Have you tried lemon for fighting mosquitoes? Which method did you like best?

    Also read:

  • Does Incense Repel Mosquitoes? Ultimate Guide On Choosing The Right One

    Does Incense Repel Mosquitoes? Ultimate Guide On Choosing The Right One

    Incense is a long-standing beautiful attribute of the East. We know that it is used as a repellent. Although, does incense repel mosquitoes? Can incense, in addition to a pleasant aroma, provide us a calm evening outside without mosquito bites?

    Does Incense Repel Mosquitoes? Overview Of The Ancient Method

    [wpsm_titlebox title=”Incense Against Mosquitoes” style=”main”]
    1. Incense really repels mosquitoes with smoke and a strong smell. They work for 2 or 8 hours.
    2. Use it only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Don’t use it if you have asthma or an allergy.
    3. Incense has antiseptic properties, what a pleasant bonus!
    [/wpsm_titlebox]

    Bzzzzz… Piii… And then there are claps and a useless race in an attempt to kill another mosquito. A peaceful evening in the open air or your night’s sleep is ruined. And then it goes on for several days until the patience is over. Even in the house, mosquitoes bothered me. In truth, my patience lasted just one evening, after my favorite repellant spray was over. Though, I remembered the incense mosquito repellent that we once purchased, and the problem was solved.

    smoking aroma stick

    Does Incense Repel Mosquitoes And Why

    Mosquito repellent incense does work. It is important to say that this method does not kill insects, but drives them away, and works for a limited time. So, why do mosquitoes hate incense?

    The first and foremost reason is the smoke that comes from burning incense. Why does incense keep mosquitoes away? When you use it, it gives off thick dense smoke which, as well as fire, provokes the sense of danger in insects and animals. It scares them off, working at the level of instincts. That is why there are no mosquitoes near the fire, and they do not fly up to a person who smokes cigarettes, a pipe or hookah.

    In fact, any smoke, even from a burnt piece of paper, will serve as a repellant. Another issue is that this smoke should be enough for a mosquito, but not too much for people. Besides, it should stand out for a long time because incense works only while they are smoldering. Incense sticks for mosquitoes burn long enough, from 2 to 8 hours, and provide exactly the right amount of smoke to repel mosquitoes and not to harm people.

    The next reason for its efficiency is the strong aroma that incense has. And thanks to burning, it becomes brighter and richer. The most commonly used aromas are clove, eucalyptus, basil, anise, vanilla, geranium, citronella, orange, lemon, and mint. Incense is impregnated with essential oils of these plants and actively releases them. All of the above smells repel mosquitoes, both individually and in mixtures. You can even apply just a few drops of essential oil or put it on an aroma lamp, room fragrances with these essential oils also work well.

    The third reason is the newest ingredient in mosquito incense, feverfew. It has a paralytic effect on mosquitoes, so insects avoid it.

    Feverfew has been used as an insecticide for centuries in Persia and Europe; The mosquito coil was invented in the 1890s by Japanese entrepreneur Eiichiro Ueyama. At that time, in Japan, pyrethrum powder mixed with sawdust, burned on a brazier or incense burner, was used to repel mosquitoes. Initially, Ueyama pressed sticks from starch, dried tangerine peel powder, and pyrethrum powder.

    mosquito spiral on dark background

    However, such oblong-shaped sticks burned out in just 40 minutes, which was not enough for a long-term deterrent effect. In 1895, his wife Yuki suggested that the sticks be made thicker and longer, and shaped into a spiral.

    In 1902, after a number of attempts, he managed to achieve the desired duration of smoldering of a coiled repellent by cutting a thick incense bar to a predetermined length and then hand-rolling it. This method was used until 1957 when the use of machine pressing made mass production possible. After World War II, his company, Dainihon Jochugiku Co. Ltd, has set up joint ventures in a number of countries, notably China and Thailand, to produce products that best suit local conditions.

    Now let’s see how to use incense mosquito repellant.

    How To Repel Mosquitoes With Incense

    1. Install the incense on a special stand or use a glass with a plate, mind fire safety.
    2. Set fire to the incense. In some cases the flame needs to be extinguished and let the incense smolder, depending on the manufacturer. Protection is guaranteed as long as there is smoke.

    It is better to use incense outdoors or in well-ventilated rooms. Smoke and strong odors indoors can cause suffocation, nausea, headaches and poisoning. Do not forget about allergies or asthma, because in this case, the method is not suitable for you.

    FAQ

    What is the best incense for mosquitoes?

    The choice is yours, but preference should be given to those incense that last as long as possible. Citrus flavors have shown the best effectiveness in controlling mosquitoes.

    Does Incense Keep Other Bugs Away?

    Yes, thanks to the smoke, incense also repels other insects. Aromas should be selected depending on the type of insects.

    Does incense purify the air?

    Yes, some incense, such as aloe vera and coniferous, has antiseptic properties and kills airborne viruses and bacteria. This has been proven by scientific research. However, they do not kill 100% of viruses and bacteria.

    aloe vera plant

    Incense Verdict: Does It Really Work?

    Incense came to us from the ancient world and has been used for many purposes, including fighting against mosquitoes. A nice smell and clean air will be a pleasant addition.

    Incense works due to thick smoke with a strong aroma: It is this factor that repels mosquitoes, but requires some caution from us as well. Do not use incense indoors or if you are intolerant of its scent.

    Have you tried mosquito incense yet? What is your favorite fragrance as a mosquito repellent?

    Also read:

  • Does Alcohol Repel Mosquitoes? Proof Tested Answer Disclosed

    Does Alcohol Repel Mosquitoes? Proof Tested Answer Disclosed

    On a warm sunny day, you might wish to enjoy a walk in the park or forest, as my family loves to do, or spend time in your backyard. Yet, there is a small buzzing problem that you’ll have to protect yourself from – mosquito bites. They are quite unpleasant, and in some regions, they can be dangerous. There are several repellents that might help. Does alcohol repel mosquitoes? Let’s discuss if such a repellent could help you solve the problem.

    Does Alcohol Repel Mosquitoes Or How Not To Get Bitten?

    [wpsm_titlebox title=”Alcohol Against Mosquitos:” style=”main”]
    1. Alcohol does not repel mosquitoes, except in the composition of sprays with aromatic oils, yet applying or rubbing alcohol makes you more vulnerable to mosquito bites.
    2. The factor increasing the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes is body odor and body temperature.
    3. Weak alcohol can be used as bait for mosquito traps, moreover, strong spirits can relieve itching after a bite.
    [/wpsm_titlebox]

    whiskey glass

    Does Alcohol Repel Mosquitoes And Why?

    You have probably had a negative experience with mosquito bites, unless you live high in the mountains, in the Arctic Circle or in Antarctica. Whether alcohol repels mosquitoes and why is a question at issue. Let’s first look at what attracts them.

    With summer onset, blood-sucking insects attack hikers and outdoor enthusiasts with incredible force. However, some people notice that some of them are bitten much less often than others. What are the main factors that influence whether you will be attacked by mosquitoes more than others?

    • The factor for mosquitoes is body odor and body temperature. As it became known recently, some people produce kairomones, while others produce allomones. These odorous substances attract or repel representatives of the animal world. So, kairomones attract mosquitoes, and allomones repel. The first type of substances is most often excreted by the body of overweight people so mosquitoes “love” them more. Bloodsuckers also react to other odors. For example, perfumes or essential oils scented with vanilla, clove, anise, lavender, frankincense, and eucalyptus repel mosquitoes. The smell of smoke is also unpleasant to them.
    • More often than others, people with blood types 1 and 2 are attacked by a buzzing squadron, and types 3 and 4 are not so appealing to them.
    • Mosquitoes prefer people with thin skin which is easier to bite through. It affects children and the youth while the elderly are bitten less often. As for gender, there is no correlation. Mosquitoes are also strongly attracted by the smell of sweat, more precisely the aromas of lactic and uric acid, ammonia and other substances contained in sweat secretions. Mosquitoes find their prey by the smell of exhaled carbon dioxide: the higher the concentration, the more attractive a person is. This category includes people of large build, obese and pregnant women.
    • Mosquitoes prefer people who eat a lot of sweets. Sugar makes the skin “taste sweeter” and enriches the blood with lactic acid which is formed during the breakdown of glucose. For the same reason, mosquitoes love to bite diabetic patients. They’re attracted by not only their sweet blood but also by the air they exhale with the smell of estradiol and acetone.

    mosquito on a leaf, close-up

    Is Alcohol Good At Repelling Mosquitoes?

    Alcohol itself does not repel mosquitoes, but rather the opposite. Although, it has a strong pungent odor. The story that rubbing alcohol kills mosquitoes is also fake.

    Now let’s talk a little about the reasons. As mentioned, kairomones attract mosquitoes. Using alcohol stimulates the production of these substances and makes us vulnerable to mosquito and other insect bites. It causes the expansion of blood vessels and capillaries which results in the increase of the body temperature, sweating, and the release of carbon dioxide. All this makes skin more vulnerable. In addition, alcohol increases blood sugar levels which also attracts mosquitoes.

    Mosquitoes are not indifferent to the smell of malt drinks, so the risk of becoming a victim of a swarm of mosquitoes after drinking beer and kvass is much greater. The likelihood of being bitten by mosquitoes also increases when drinking vodka or other spirits. This is due to the fact that alcohol enhances the work of the heart, speeds up blood circulation and, as a result, increases body temperature.

    How To Use Alcohol To Repel Mosquitoes?

    Mosquitoes and alcohol are rather friends, not enemies. Weak alcohol can be used as bait for mosquito traps if placed into or near the trap. Some repellent aerosols contain alcohol, but in such cases it’s used as a spray base and stabilizer. You can make such a spray at home: take one of the essential oils that repel mosquitoes, or make a mix and add alcohol in a ratio of 1 to 2, respectively.

    Does rubbing alcohol keep mosquitoes away? No, alcohol, even a strong one, does not repel mosquitoes. As I wrote above, it rather serves as a bait, activating physiological processes, thanks to which we become “more visible” to mosquitoes.

    Does rubbing alcohol repel mosquitoes? This is quite a common question. No, it doesn’t work as a repellent. However, strong alcohol helps to relieve itching and irritation if you anoint the bite with it.

    mosquito biting human

    FAQ

    What smells do mosquitoes hate?

    A solution of vanillin or clove oil, essential oils of eucalyptus, peppermint, lavender, cedarwood, tea tree and basil work well. They are sold in pharmacies.

    Does drinking alcohol make mosquito bites worse?

    Mosquitoes bite people who drink alcohol more often and the reaction to the bite is not associated with alcohol consumption.

    Do mosquitoes like drunks?

    Mosquitoes do bite drunk people more often than sober ones. However, this is due exclusively to the physiological processes described above. Mosquitoes are resistant to alcohol and do not get drunk.

    Can Alcohol Be Used As A Repellant?

    How much alcohol will help you repel mosquitoes? The answer is: None at all. Alcohol relieves itching from a mosquito bite as an ingredient in oil repellent spray, but it does not protect from insects. It improves blood circulation and, on the contrary, increases the likelihood of a bite.

    Share your experience with us. Have you tried using alcohol as a repellant? How do you protect yourself from mosquitoes?

    Also read:

  • Do Dryer Sheets Repel Mosquitoes and Are They Effective?

    Do Dryer Sheets Repel Mosquitoes and Are They Effective?

    Dryer sheets are often listed as a smart internet hack for repelling mosquitoes but how much truth is actually in it? Do dryer sheets repel mosquitoes or are they just one of the popular myths, and what does the science say about it? Many mosquitoes DIY solutions are incredibly helpful, but there are also plenty of those which will leave you with itchy bites all over and just aren’t worth the risk. Here I tried to look into all the facts and fiction and how to use dryer sheets to repel mosquitoes.

    Do Dryer Sheets Keep Mosquitoes Away and Why?

    [wpsm_titlebox title=”Here is what dryer sheets can and cannot do:” style=”main”]
    • because they have a strong scent they’re effective against different insects
    • they contain linalool, which is effective against mosquitoes like Fungus gnats
    • potentially they can give you short-term protection against insects
    • but they’re not a reliable long-term protection against mosquitoes
    [/wpsm_titlebox]

    mosquito on a leaf

    What are dryer sheets?

    First, let’s look at what exactly are dryer sheets and what about them that can theoretically repel mosquitoes and insects. As with many aromatic oils and substances, the thing that theoretically can repel mosquitoes is the smell. This is where the old tale about putting a dryer sheet in your pocket comes from: many people who work outside in summer, like gardeners, have reportedly been doing this for years. But is this actually effective?

    Research about dryer sheets used as mosquito repellent

    Unlike other home repellants, there isn’t a lot of scientific research done to see if dryer sheets work. A HortScience journal conducted a simple experiment to see if they work. They took a plastic container that had a large central section and smaller side sections. In one of the smaller containers they put a dryer sheet, and in the central one – a type of mosquito called fungus gnats, which might be familiar to agricultural workers who work in the field. When they checked in a couple of days later, they saw that gnats were mainly staying in the containers that didn’t have dryer sheets in them.

    Researchers actually say they’re likely to be more effective not against mosquitoes, but against other types of insects like mites and German cockroaches. After this, researchers tried to identify which of the components of dryer sheets was responsible for keeping the gnats away. A substance called linalool was identified as the main component, and what it does is produces a strong floral odor that some insects, including gnats, find repelling.

    So, do dryer sheets repel mosquitoes? When they’re put in the cupboards or next to some plants, they can repel some kinds of mosquitoes, though we don’t know yet how effective they are in general.

    businesswoman shrugs

    How Do People Use Dryer Sheets to Repel Mosquitoes?

    So, if you want to know what kind of dryer sheets repel mosquitoes, you should look for sheets that contain linalool and other aromatic substances. Conventional wisdom says you can use any kind of dryer sheet, as long as it has a scent. People put them in their pockets to keep the mosquitoes away from them, and you can also do the same to your plants and other surfaces. People place dryer sheets in places where mosquitoes tend to gather.

    It will create a strong potent scent that mosquitoes don’t like, so they will, theoretically, stay away and try to avoid the area where the scent is discernible.

    Are dryer sheets good at repelling mosquitoes?

    How do dryer sheets keep mosquitoes away? Because this is not their intended use, there’s really no telling. It’s also not clear if they can provide long-term protection in outdoor settings.

    If you only plan to get out of the house for a short time and you don’t have a mosquito-repellant spray on you, putting a dryer sheet in your pocket is a good safety precaution.

    If, however, you’re planning to stay outside for extended periods of time, or if you’re looking for protection from potentially dangerous types of mosquitoes, like Anopheles, Aedes, and Culex, it’s better to stick to the more proven methods that give you lengthy protection.

    mosquitoes on insect net

    FAQ on Dryer Sheets

    Everything we know about dryer sheets is told by word of mouth and the conventional experience of people. Some swear by it, even for the use in open farming fields, and some say it’s mostly a myth. I’ve tried to gather some of the most commonly asked questions about dryer sheets and find some answers to them.

    Does rubbing dryer sheets keep mosquitoes away?

    Will dryer sheets repel mosquitoes if you rub them on your skin? Well, if your dryer sheets contain scents and chemicals that repel mosquitoes, it makes no sense to rub them on your skin, because that way it will evaporate quicker. As a sheet, it absorbs the scent much better and is able to maintain it for longer, and this way – potentially keep the mosquitoes away.

    Do dryer sheets repel bees and wasps?

    There are some insects that dryer sheets can allegedly repel: German cockroaches, mites, fungus gnats, beetles, and even stink bugs and bed bugs.

    The truth is, that people use dryer sheets to try to get rid of just about any bug. Bees and wasps are no exception because just like other insects, they dislike the strong scents that dryer sheets make. It doesn’t mean, though, they offer reliable protection, so you should only think of using dryer sheets against bees and wasps as an additional measure.

    Can you put dryer sheets in your vents?

    Research shows that dryer sheets are actually a source of air pollution, because of the chemicals that they contain. When put in air vents, the exposure to the fragrant chemicals is increased and is constantly irritating the eyes, nose, and airways. This can potentially cause an onset of allergies in susceptible individuals and other types of irritation. Additionally, they block the circulating systems and worsen the airflow, so no, you shouldn’t put the dryer sheets in your vents.

    Do Dryer Sheets Repel Mosquitoes?

    The answer is that we just don’t know for sure. It’s effective against Fungus gnats, and while that doesn’t definitively prove they can be used against all mosquitoes, people still use them. There is also a belief that because of the strong fragrance, they’re generally used against many insects. The truth about dryer sheets lies somewhere in the middle, they show some insect-repelling activity, but should by no means be your only or even first choice of strong mosquito protection, especially if you’re planning on being outside for a long time.

    Also read:

  • Does Listerine Repel Mosquitoes: Main Benefits of Using Listerine and Analysis of Its Efficiency

    Does Listerine Repel Mosquitoes: Main Benefits of Using Listerine and Analysis of Its Efficiency

    The question of whether Listerine Mouthwash repels mosquitoes became really popular. It is considered that all the Listerine repellent hype started with the post of a Facebook user who claimed that instead of using regular mosquito repellent, you can use a popular mouthwash remedy to get rid of insects. So, many people started asking themselves: “Does Listerine repel mosquitoes?”.

    In this article, we will take a closer look at the “Listerine question” and see why many people believe that Listerine is better, why they prefer using it, and whether this is true.

    How to Use Listerine as a Repellent?

    The algorithm of using Listerine, according to the post of a Facebook user, was simple.

    [wpsm_titlebox title=”How to Use Listerine” style=”main”]
    1. Find a spot, where mosquitoes can be;
    2. Spray it a little with Listerine;
    3. Enjoy your time without pests bothering you.
    [/wpsm_titlebox]

    So now, when we know how to use Listerine to repel mosquitoes, it is time to find out whether it works, or not.

    listerine bottle, bigger image

    Does Listerine Repel Mosquitoes and Why?

    The question of whether Listerine deters mosquitoes effectively is up to date now. People think they kill insects whent repelling them. “Does Listerine work on mosquitoes by killing them?”.

    It might be sort of surprising, but Listerine doesn’t kill – it only repels insects, due to its containing some special ingredients.

    The very first reason for that is that Listerine contains alcohol, namely the fumes of alcohol. In the research by Olimpia Ferguson, provided by the Ohio University, it was claimed that the alcohol is effective against bed bugs. However, alcohol is also a way to kill insects, spraying it directly on them, which may keep them away on an instinctive level.

    Anyway, alcohol is not the only reason why mosquitoes are away after you repell Listerine. The major ingredient in the war with pests is Menthol or Eucalyptol. These oils are often used in different regular repellents, and help keep pests away. The National Pesticide Information Center mentioned these oils in their statement about repelling remedies. So, the answer to the question “Does Listerine repel mosquitoes” is “Yes”.

    How to Use Listerine to Repel Mosquitoes?

    More users have learned about the opportunity to repel insects with Listerine, so they became enthusiastic trying to find more ways for repelling insects with it. Does Listerine keep mosquitoes away? Yes, but you need to know how to use it.

    The very first, which became a classic one, was just pouring the mouthwash remedy on a surface that you want to protect from pests. This way was originally described by the Facebook user who initiated the Listerine issue.

    However, some people came further and started using Listerine as a spray. They spray around some amount of remedy in order to make mosquitos fly away. This method is way more pleasant because you will always smell the aroma of fresh mint.

    Some users also claimed that they used Listerine as a body spray for repelling insects, but this way is not recommended, due to the fact that Listerine is based on alcohol, which would dry your skin and may cause some allergic reactions.

    anti-mosquito spray

    Is It Effective, Though?

    The community of people who have already tried Listerine to get rid of mosquitoes is massive enough. Some claim this method is fully ineffective, referring to different research and their own experience, while others say that Listerine deters mosquitoes. So, does Listerine keep mosquitoes away effectively?

    In fact, Listerine is not that effective against mosquitos. And there are several reasons why.

    First of all, the amount of Menthol and Eucalyptol in it is too low. Due to the information provided on the official Listerine website, the concentration of these oils makes only 0.04% of Menthol and 0.09% of Eucalyptol. This is not enough to provide full safety from nasty pests, though.

    Moreover, the alcohol, which also might help against insects, quickly vaporizes, which will not give you long-lasting protection. For this reason, if you are going for a walk to some park or forest, the best way is to use different certified repellents, which would be much more effective and long-lasting, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

    The Main Questions About Listerine as a Repellent

    What Listerine is best for mosquitos?

    Due to the variety of Listerine products, people might not be sure which would be perfect for repelling mosquitoes. If you want to try Listerine to get rid of mosquitoes, try using one with Cool Mint. This way, you are able to get the best protection from pests because Cool Mint contains enough Menthol and Eucalyptol. However, you should use Antiseptic mouthwash which contains alcohol for the best effect.

    Will Listerine get rid of flies?

    The effectiveness of Listerine against flies is not as good as against regular pests. However, alcohol-based Listerine may be effective for repelling if you use it as a spray.

    Does Listerine keep flies off dogs?

    Using Listerine on domestic pets is not recommended. It may cause minor painful feelings for them, discomfort, and dry their fur or skin. So, be careful using Listerine as a mosquito spray while domestic pets are close to you.

    brown dog on green field

    Is Listerine really effective for repelling pests?

    Does Listerine repel mosquitoes? Yes, Listerine really prevents insects from disturbing you if you are using it as a spray or a little “trap” on a surface. However, it would not be as effective and long-lasting as a real insect-repelling remedy.

    If you have no repellent, Listerine mosquito repellant would come in handy to repel mosquitos.

    Have you ever tried Listerine as a repellent? Tell us about your experience of using it this way!

    Also read:

  • Citronella vs Lemongrass for Mosquitos: All the Details Covered

    Citronella vs Lemongrass for Mosquitos: All the Details Covered

    Mosquitos are common in many places all across the Earth. It is hard to hide from them, but through different scientific research, I’ve found new ways of fighting these insects. Citronella vs lemongrass for mosquitos is a question that still stands in the repellent-plants community. In this article, I would like to discuss whether natural oils can be used to repel mosquitos and which oils work best. Keep on reading to find out!

    Guide on Difference Between Citronella and Lemongrass

    [wpsm_titlebox title=”Citronella vs Lemongrass for Mosquitos:” style=”main”]
    • Lemongrass and citronella are not the same, but they have a similar smell;
    • Lemongrass oil is a more potent mosquito repellent than citronella oil;
    • Citronella oil used in candles cannot protect you from mosquitoes.
    [/wpsm_titlebox]

    Citronella plant vs lemongrass

    Let’s first define both of these plants. For a regular onlooker who’s not interested in botany, they might look the same, but there is an important difference between citronella and lemongrass when it comes to using them as mosquito repellents.

    dried lemongrass on plate

    Lemongrass

    Lemongrass is a plant that has come to the US from India and Sri Lanka, where it is a common guest in many gardens. Lemongrass grows in big clumps, barely reaching 39 inches, but it can be pretty wide if you let it overgrow. It has long sharp leaves with a noticeable texture and light-green color. Sometimes, this plant is used in cooking and medicine, and people produce lemongrass bug repellent. Lemongrass oil is widely used to scare off different insects and is known to have a nice lemony smell.

    Citronella

    You might know some of the plants of the family citronella belongs to – the geraniums. Citronella is grass with long leaves that sometimes have a tinge of blue in them. It might grow in big bushes up to 78 inches, so if you get one in your garden, you should take good care of it. Citronella is widely cultivated all across Asia, and it is known as a famous mosquito repellent. Its oil has a very memorable sharp and strong smell.

    Difference between citronella and lemongrass

    Citronella and lemongrass oil might smell very similar, having a nice lemony smell, but lemongrass oil is clearly a superior bug repellent.

    Citronella oil

    According to the National Pesticide Information Center, there are currently no studies that indicate that citronella oil actually works. Even though there are documents that indicate that this oil has been used by the ancient Greeks and Romans to repel mosquitoes, it seems that its effect is very minor.

    Overall, the use of citronella oil in “bug-repelling” candles seems a marketing ploy to increase sales. It does smell nice, but if you wish to save yourself from mosquitos and other insects, I advise you to use something else. The best result you can hope for is for citronella oil to slightly mask smells that attract mosquitoes and reduce the number of bug bites. Furthermore, the amount of citronella oil that is used in candles is clearly not enough to produce any real effect.

    citronella oil and grass

    Lemongrass oil

    The effectiveness of lemongrass oil is comparable to conventional DEET bug sprays. The downside of lemongrass, when compared to a DEET bug repellent, is the fact that lemongrass oil has to be applied every 30-60 minutes. DEET products, on the other hand, should be applied every 4 hours for maximum effect but can cause allergic reactions when they come in contact with your skin.

    Having to reapply lemongrass every 30-60 minutes might seem like a hassle, but the upside is that lemongrass is 100% natural, not toxic for humans, and does not cause any long-term effects, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

    Just remember that you should never use pure lemongrass oil on your skin. Before use, lemongrass oil should be diluted in the carrier oil, making it safe for external use.

    Why do mosquitoes hate them?

    Both citronella and lemongrass are known mosquito repellents, but what does the job is the oil inside of them. The smell and compounds of the oils change the behavior of the insects that come across these plants. They begin to show signs of irritation, trying to fly away from the source of the smell. The oils can be used in air diffusers outside the house if you don’t like the smell invading your space. Although, before using this method, you need to make sure that no one in the household has an allergic reaction to the essential oils.

    Sometimes, the oils can be applied directly to the skin. Using this method, you can travel in warm climates where mosquitoes prefer to live without worrying about being bitten. Of course, like any medical form of repellent, it can cause a rash. If that happens, it is better to wash it off immediately. Some people prefer to use these oils directly on the bite marks, as they provide a cooling effect that helps with itching.

    Some studies show that lemongrass is more effective against malaria mosquitos, although citronella is proven to work as a repellent for other species of these insects. Moreover, essential oils can help against other bugs including the sandfly.

    big dead mosquito

    What other plants can repel mosquitoes

    The good news is that citronella and lemongrass are not the only repellents you can find out there. Some other plants are known to be effective against insects, and you can easily grow many of them outside. Bug repellents are useful to have in the garden since they will scare off any unwanted guests right from your porch. Plus, it is nice to look at well-kept greenery, and you can collect a good harvest to use in your kitchen.

    Lavender

    Lavender is a nice addition to any garden, as its pleasant smell repels most mosquitoes, although the effect might be temporary. These purple flowers also help attract pollinators that spread pollen across the area, making your garden even more lovely. Lavender can be used to create essential oil; for this, you should put it into the air diffuser. You should plant it on the sunny side of the territory, as most species like a lot of warmth and sunshine.

    Rosemary

    Rosemary is a common condiment in many dishes, but it also features repelling abilities against mosquitos. It’s well-known for its nice taste, and it is pretty easy to grow rosemary on your windowsill. The plant is very versatile: it forms little bushes, barely reaching 12 inches, and doesn’t require much attention besides regular watering.

    Basil

    Basil works against mosquito larvae which can also be a pain. The secret is in its leaves: different compounds including basil leaves help kill mosquito larvae that usually live in little ponds. Moreover, basil is a very good seasoning: you can make plenty of sauces based on its leaves. Its smell can attract pollinators in the summer, which is also a nice addition to the garden. Basil has bright-green color and grows in small bushes that barely stand out from the ground.

    Mint

    You probably know that mint is very popular in the food industry, and many people love its taste and smell. Mint has a nice cooling effect when used in baking, and its oil consists of different compounds that scare off insects, including mosquitos. You can grow it in a shadowy place since it doesn’t require much attention besides watering. Be careful, as it can spread like grass and invade your entire garden, so it is better to put your mint in a separate pot.

    mint plants

    Citronella vs. Lemongrass: Frequently Asked Questions

    These two oils have similar properties that can help repel insects, so people often wonder which one is better and what are the differences between the two.

    Is citronella oil and lemongrass oil the same?

    Both oils have chemical compounds in them that repel insects, including mosquitos. They consist of similar reagents but are considered different. Their most apparent difference is, of course, in smell.

    Is lemongrass better than citronella?

    Lemongrass is a much better mosquito repellant than citronella. Though citronella oil is used in candles that are advertised to repel insects, no research has proven its effectiveness.

    Do mosquitoes hate lemon?

    Mosquitos don’t hate lemon. They cannot stand some particular oils that are produced by lemongrass.

    Does lemongrass repel mosquitoes?

    Yes, lemongrass is a good mosquito repellent. The only downside it has when compared to DEET products is that you have to reapply it frequently for the prolonged effect.

    Don’t Worry About Any Insects in Your House

    Mosquitos can be quite annoying guests in a house, so it is always better to prevent them from coming in. Many plant-based methods are proven to be effective against these insects, and you can also profit from growing citronella and lemongrass in your garden. Take care of your greenery, and don’t worry about any pests invading your space.

    Do you prefer the smell of lemongrass or citronella? What other repellents would you like to have in your garden? Please, share your opinion in the comments below.

    Also read:

  • Do Mosquito Bracelets Work? Detailed Product Overview & Tips

    Do Mosquito Bracelets Work? Detailed Product Overview & Tips

    Mosquitos are a source of much discomfort in the spring and summer seasons. They can ruin even the most exciting hike or a fun picnic. Before taking a walk in the fresh air, it is a good idea to stock up on special means to protect yourself against these annoying insects. Luckily, the choice is rich: there are creams, ointments, aerosols, fumigators, and electronic devices that destroy or repel mosquitoes. The question people often ask is: “do mosquito bracelets work?” Here is a detailed buying guide to educate you on the benefits of these wearable repellent systems.

    Guide on Mosquito Bracelets Working Principle

    An anti-mosquito bracelet is a necessity for any outdoor activity.

    [wpsm_titlebox title=”Here is how a bug repellent bracelet works:” style=”main”]
    1. Fibers of the bracelet are infused with a mosquito-repelling oil;
    2. Evaporating oils provide some protection against mosquitoes;
    3. The bracelet eventually loses its potency and must be thrown away.
    [/wpsm_titlebox]

    Also Read: Best Mosquito Repellent Bracelet

    What are mosquito bracelets?

    If DEET (the most commonly used synthetic active ingredient of bug repellants) mosquito sprays are too sticky, insecticides are too toxic, and mosquito nets are too bulky, you might like the idea of wearing an attractive, compact, and nicely scented mosquito repellent bracelet. Such items are oil-infused anti-mosquito bands that work by releasing a scent that these tiny insects find offensive. By using extracts of essential oils that are found in nature (i.e., citronella, pine, Ligustrum sinense, peppermint, and others) and completely safe for a person, these bracelets offer a high level of protection for children and adults alike.

    three mosquito bracelets

    The advantages of mosquito bracelets over DEET products:

    • anti-mosquito bracelets provide a less messy, fast-working, and more natural alternative to chemical and often toxic lotions and sprays that penetrate the skin and can unsafely interact with some cosmetic and sunscreen products;
    • these solutions leave no residue on the skin or clothes and do not require repeated applications to remain effective;
    • unlike chemical sprays, lotions, special nets, or clothing, mosquito repellent bracelets are extremely affordable;
    • mosquito bracelets will last you for at least 100 hours (depending on the brand, the duration of such products can be up to 240 hours);
    • newer types of bracelets come with small refillable packs that allow you to use your bracelet over and over again;
    • water-resistant mosquito repellent wristbands can withstand various unfriendly environmental conditions;
    • they are adjustable, travel-friendly bands with a stylish design.

    Do they work?

    One of the questions people are most curious about is: “do mosquito repellent bracelets work?” The answer is that they do work, but there are certain reservations. The effectiveness of these products is determined by the repellent’s ingredients, the conditions you utilize them in, and your expectations. Mosquito bracelets infused with plant-based oils do not provide full coverage, and the vapor released by them is not strong enough to prevent 100% of mosquito bites, even locally. Therefore, it is best to combine these products with other topical repellents in heavily infested areas. Use them only for the local protection of the part of your skin that remains uncovered.

    a whole lot of mosquitoes

    What attracts and repels mosquitoes?

    The carbon dioxide exhaled by people can attract biting female mosquitoes within a 35-meter radius. Another chemical released with the person’s sweat that appeals to mosquitos is lactic acid, which explains why we get bitten so often while participating in physically draining outdoor activities on a hot summer day. So, the repelling mechanism of mosquito bracelets is easy-to-understand: these items mask the smell of carbon dioxide and throw the insects off the track.

    The most effective essential subtract used in the production of bracelets is lemon eucalyptus oil. It is the only oil recommended by CDC as a natural and working alternative to DEET repellent products. Not only does this oil mask your presence, but it also actively repels mosquitoes. Other essential oils that show evidence of being more or less effective against mosquito bites include:

    • citronella;
    • lavender;
    • peppermint;
    • thyme;
    • cinnamon;
    • Greek catmint;
    • tea tree;
    • geranium;
    • neem.

    eucalyptus oil in bottle

    How to choose an appropriate anti-mosquito bracelet?

    If you already know which essential oil you would like to use in your mosquito bracelet, it is time to concentrate on other things. Make sure that the product is waterproof or at least water-resistant. It will let you use it in various weather conditions without having its efficiency quickly degrade. Secondly, pick a bracelet with the longest promised durability to avoid the need to replace it every few days. The durability of mosquito repellent bracelets can be determined by the concentration level of the essential oil: the higher it is, the longer it takes for the effect to wear off. Finally, before you put such a bracelet on yourself or on your kid, it is best to do a quick allergy test to ensure that the oil within is compatible with the wearer’s skin sensitivity level.

    FAQ About Mosquito Repellent Bracelets

    Do you have any questions concerning mosquito repellent bracelets? Need advice on how to use them properly? Check out my FAQ section below for more information.

    Do ultrasonic mosquito wristbands work?

    Today, there is a wide range of ultrasonic anti-mosquito wearables like watches, necklaces, and wristbands that promise to repel and even destroy mosquitoes. They release extremely high-pitched noises in the form of ultrasonic waves, which negatively affect the nervous system of these insects. However, despite much research, no factual data exists to back up the claim that ultrasonic technology actually works.

    How long do bug repellent bracelets work?

    Depending on the oils used and the environmental conditions you wear it in, a typical mosquito repellent wristband can last between 120 and 240 hours. The least usage time is 100 hours.

    What really works to repel mosquitoes?

    Aside from anti-mosquito bracelets impregnated with essential oils, other repellents can effectively keep these irritating insects at bay. These include fragrance-free wipes, aerosol sprays, lotions, and even mosquito-proof clothes that have a DEET formula infused in their fibers.

    If looking to replace a DEET product with an eco-friendly solution, your best choice is to use a repellent with an essential oil compound. Oils with the most prominent anti-mosquito properties are lemon eucalyptus, citronella, geranium, peppermint, tea tree, lavender, cinnamon, neem, Greek catmint, and thyme.

    cinnamon in spoon

    Which mosquito bracelet material to choose?

    If you are sensitive to silicone or rubber, look for an anti-mosquito wristband with hypoallergenic properties. One option is to check out mesh bracelets that are more permeable and feel more comfortable against the skin.

    Do hand sanitizers repel mosquitoes?

    The alcohol in such products can deter mosquitoes for a brief time. It feels fresh on the skin but protects only on a limited surface.

    Anti-Mosquito Wristbands: Effective and Affordable

    Anti-mosquito wristbands are an effective insect repellent solution for children and adults alike. This measure is both inexpensive and made with natural chemicals safe for users. The bracelets can keep their effect for a long time and work in plenty of environments. When shopping for such a product, consider the level of safety for the delicate skin. Next, look at which insects it can repel. Finally, consider the durability of the item in various settings.

    Have you ever used a mosquito-repelling bracelet? Share your experience in the comments! Feel free to contact me if you still have any questions.

    Also read:

  • Crane Fly vs Mosquito: How to Spot

    Crane Fly vs Mosquito: How to Spot

    When spring comes, many insects start to emerge from their long sleep during winter. Many people argue if a crane fly vs a mosquito is a problem in a house since these two species look awfully similar. Nevertheless, you don’t need to worry about one of them; I will explain all their specs in this guide.

    Guide on Various Flying Insects

    A tipple insect and a mosquito are often mixed up, and here are the things that set them apart:

    [wpsm_box style=”main”]
      • Crane flies (aka tipple insects) don’t bite;
      • A crane fly’s body is straight, while a mosquito’s body is humped;
      • Crane flies are usually about 3 times bigger than mosquitoes.
    [/wpsm_box]

    Similarities between crane flies and mosquitos

    Mosquitoes and crane flies (commonly referred to as tipple insects or daddy longlegs) look so similar at first glance that many people ask themselves “are crane flies mosquitoes?” However, if you know that a tipple insect isn’t just an oversized mosquito, you’ll be able to quickly spot all the differences between the two.

    mosquito on leaf

    Differences: crane fly vs mosquito

    Mosquitoes are much smaller than tipples, so this feature can give you a hint. Then you need to look at their stance: crane flies don’t fold their wings when they rest on a wall, while mosquitos keep their wings close to the body.

    It is certainly scary to see an allegedly big mosquito fly around your living room, but it might be a crane fly. These insects are not dangerous to people or pets as they don’t eat during their mating season. Crane-fly size can reach from 1 to 2 inches, which is pretty big for a regular insect, but despite their appearance, they are in your house only by accident. Crane flies are attracted to bright light, so if your window is open in the evening, they can fly in trying to get closer to the light source.

    Mosquitoes barely reach 0.4 inches, so it is difficult to spot them. Their presence can be also identified by the appearance of small itching bumps on your skin – the results of their bites. Mosquitoes, females to be precise, feed on the blood of humans and animals, and their poison causes very annoying itching. In addition, mosquitoes have prolonged needle-like mouths they use to puncture the skin of their victim.

    When do they emerge?

    Mosquitoes and cranes have similar lifecycles, but some main differences make them separate. In late spring, both of them emerge from larvae that live in moist places or ponds. Mosquito larvae feed on algae and bacteria that surges the top layer of the water source, then it goes through the pupa stage and eventually becomes an adult organism. Crane-fly larvae have about the same habits, but sometimes they can be found in grass or turf, as they are considered an important part of the soil ecosystem, processing organic matter.

    mosquito larvae in water

    What do they eat?

    An adult mosquito crane lives from 10 to 15 days, and the only goal it has is to reproduce. They don’t eat and only fly across the land looking for a potential mate. That’s why they can end up in your house by mistake, as most species are nocturnal and can be attracted by a bright light.

    Female mosquitoes are larger and need to feed on blood during the breeding season to produce enough material for the upcoming eggs. They are the main reason why you get so itchy at night. Male mosquitoes are small and feed on nectar: they are not a threat to anyone, flying in little swarms.

    What are they attracted to?

    Crane flies are attracted to bright light, which causes them to enter your house if you don’t have mosquito nets on your windows. This can be fairly annoying, especially if you aren’t aware of the fact that crane flies are completely harmless.

    Just like crane flies, mosquitoes are also attracted to light, which allows them to get closer to you. Once they enter your vicinity, they become aware of the CO2 that you exhale and draw near. After that, mosquitoes are guided by smell, which is why some people get bitten a lot, while others aren’t even aware that mosquitoes are buzzing nearby.

    It seems that blood type is the deciding factor of whether you will get bitten or not. People with O blood type are bitten a lot more frequently than people with other blood types. Drinking beer and being pregnant also decreases your chances of escaping unscathed.

    mosquito lamp in dark

    Are they harmful?

    Mosquitoes can be extremely dangerous. They are the transmitters of highly deadly diseases like malaria, dengue, Zika virus, and many more. The viruses or invasive bacteria can get into your body through the bite and spread around the blood vessels. Usually, malaria parasites are found in the digestive system of female mosquitoes.

    Moreover, some people can be allergic to mosquito bites, causing asphyxia and big rash, so it is always better to watch out for these insects.

    How to keep them away?

    As mosquitoes are a bigger problem, it is logical to deal with them first. You might have heard about special diffusers supplied with compounds that scare off these insects. You can use natural repellents like plants which produce essential oils, having a negative effect on mosquitoes. They are lemongrass, citronella, mint, and rosemary. To cope with mosquitoes, you can use special sprays that will cover your skin with a thin layer of repellent so that they don’t dare to bite you. You can install an electric mosquito killer in your garden if you are worried about swarms of them flying around near your property.

    You can get rid of crane flies by closing all of your windows at night or installing a special net that will prohibit them from flying into the house. Because they are attracted to light, it is better to use smaller sources of it like table lights when it is dark outside.

    green lemongrass plants

    Crane Fly vs. Mosquito: Frequently Asked Questions

    There are some similarities between crane flies and mosquitos, which is why people often mix them up. Here are the most common questions that I frequently get asked.

    Do crane flies eat mosquitoes?

    No, adult crane flies don’t eat in general. Their larvae feed on turf and grass.

    Are crane flies poisonous to dogs?

    Crane flies are completely harmless since they only eat nectar and plants. They don’t bite any animals, so you can be sure that your dogs are safe.

    Are Daddy longlegs and crane flies the same thing?

    Yes, these are two names that refer to the same insect. However, if you live in Australia, Daddy longlegs is an extremely venomous spider, so you better not confuse the two.

    Are crane flies mosquitoes?

    No, crane flies belong to a different family. They only carry similar visual characteristics to mosquitoes.

    Know Your Insects

    It is crucial to understand the peculiarities of insects that appear in your house. Crane flies and mosquitoes can look similar, but crane flies are harmless to humans, so it is important to spot whom you are dealing with. Take care of your environment and kill only those insects that invade your space with the intent to bite you.

    Do you know any other insects similar to mosquitoes? Have you dealt with crane flies in your house? Please, comment below, and share this article if you like it.

    Also read:

  • Does Lemongrass Repel Mosquitoes?

    Does Lemongrass Repel Mosquitoes?

    Everyone in our country suffers from pesky insects and mosquitoes in summer. Traditional repellents sometimes do not help and can result in an allergic reaction. Therefore, it is not surprising that you are looking for a simple and natural remedy. So, does lemongrass repel mosquitoes? Yes, it does. A simple lemongrass can be such a real life saving solution to the mosquito problem.

    Lemongrass Against Mosquitoes

    A perennial herb with a strange but pleasant lemon smell is frequently planted in gardens and is used in landscape design. Also, it is widely leveraged in medicine for removing toxins from the body and cleansing the liver. The first ones who adopted lemongrass were Asians – they’ve been using it in cooking. Not a long time ago one more lemongrass trait was discovered – insects try to avoid it because of its lemon smell.

    lemongrass large bush

    [wpsm_titlebox title=”Does Lemongrass Repel Mosquitoes and Why?” style=”main”]
    1. Lemongrass is one of the most effective anti-mosquito repellents both as an essential oil and a plant.
    2. Beware of allergic reactions to a lemongrass. Check if you’re sensitive to it by rubbing it into a small area like your inner forearm.
    3. Citronella, known as a lemongrass’ type, is used for making essential oils.
    4. There are several recipes of citronella oil in combination with basic oils which proved to be effective against mosquitoes.
    5. Planting citronella in the yard can be an effective anti-mosquito repellant too.
    [/wpsm_titlebox]

    Lemon smell of the plant scares away insects, but does lemongrass keep mosquitoes away? The answer is yes. It is one of the most effective mosquito repellents among natural remedies. Even more, not only the sap and the essential oil from this plant repel mosquitoes, but the plant itself too.

    Citronella oil is obtained from the above-ground parts of lemongrass by distilling the aromatic substances via steam. And does lemongrass oil repel mosquitoes? Yes, it prevents mosquito bites by impacting the receptors in their antennae. Citronella oil is most effective in high concentrations. Thus, research has shown that the use of concentrated (45-100%) citronella oil can completely exclude mosquito bites. However, this oil in concentrations above 10% can also provide such protection, but only for a short time.

    Allergy alert

    Don’t forget that you may have an allergy to lemongrass. Before rubbing leaves of the plant all over your exposed skin, try first rubbing the oil on a small area, such as the inner forearm. Wait a day or two to see if you have an allergic reaction to the oil. If you get an itchy rash or bumps, using lemon grass or any other plant containing citronella oil as a mosquito repellent is probably not a good option for you.

    allergy season warning

    How to use lemongrass to repel mosquitoes?

    There are three ways to use lemongrass for mosquitoes (another name – citronella. Basically, citronella and lemongrass has some differences in appearance, but these two plants are closely related.):

    • Plant lemongrass in the yard or inside the room in a pot;
    • Use citronella oil;
    • Use lemongrass sap;
    • Use chemical repellents on a lemongrass basis.

    1. Planting lemongrass

    Planting citronella in the yard is the option only if you live in a warm region of the country. Lemongrass can’t withstand frost, but in warmer climates it can be planted directly in a sunny patch of ground.

    Maintaining lemongrass in a pot will spare you from the problem of mosquitoes. It’s better to place the pot in a bedroom or in a living room near windows to prevent insects in the liveliest rooms.

    2. Using citronella oil

    So, how to make lemongrass mosquito repellent? Pure citronella oil can be bought in pharmacies or in other specialized shops. You can apply it to skin in its purest form or mix it with base oil. Here is the receipt of one of the variations of base oil:

    1. macadamia oil – 1/3;
    2. hazelnut oil – 1/3;
    3. Evening primrose oil – 1/3;

    However, I’d recommend using citronella oil in diluted

    3. Using lemongrass sap

    That is a here-and-now option. Noticed a lemongrass and mosquitoes are attacking you? So, pluck the stem, rub it hard and apply the juice to exposed skin – you will be protected from mosquitoes for the next 4 hours.

    You can also prepare a tincture: grind the stems of lemongrass with a blender and mix the juice with alcohol in a 1:1 ratio.

    lemongrass oil

    4. Using chemical repellents on a lemongrass basis

    Modern manufacturers of mosquito repellents have a lot of products based on a natural component – citronella oil. Wide range of sprays, candles, creams and atomizers with lemongrass are presented on the market. Bear in mind that lemongrass essential oil mosquito repellent, in most cases, is toxic for pets.

    FAQ

    Some frequently asked questions about lemongrass and mosquitoes.

    Is Lemongrass better than citronella?

    Lemongrass and citronella are practically two closely related plants. They have minimum differences and have the same effect on mosquitoes and other insects.

    How much lemongrass do you need to repel mosquitoes?

    Couple of lemongrass plants in the room will scare mosquitoes away. The lemongrass will not have the same effect if planted in the yard, some mosquitoes will still find a way to the house. However, the number of the annoying insects will slightly reduce.

    Is lemongrass safe for dogs?

    No. Dogs don’t like the smell of lemongrass and it may cause a strong allergic reaction. However, it’s applicable only for citronella spray, sap, essential oil and lemongrass candles for mosquitoes. Lemongrass plants are less dangerous, but they may still cause an allergy.

    So, should I use lemongrass to repel mosquitoes?

    Overall, lemongrass plants are a good method to reduce the amount of mosquitos in your house. Citronella-based repellents are considered to be effective enough to spare you from the mosquito problem. However, an essential oil of lemongrass might be dangerous for your pets and cause an allergic reaction.

    Have you ever used a lemongrass repellent? Are you satisfied with it? Share your experience in the comments below.

    Also read:

  • Does Lavender Repel Mosquitoes?

    Does Lavender Repel Mosquitoes?

    Every person in warm countries around the world is suffering from annoying insects and mosquitoes during the summertime. Traditional repellents sometimes don’t help and may have an allergic effect on people. So it’s not surprising that we are searching for a simple and natural remedy. Does lavender repel mosquitoes? Yes, using lavender may be such a saving solution for the problem of mosquitoes.

    Lavender VS Mosquitoes

    Lavender has many positive effects on humans. Lavender’s flowers and oil are often used to calm down the nerves in stressful situations, to get rid of rheumatism, migraines and other diseases. Moreover, lavender is an ideal option for those who need protection from mosquitoes because of the prevalence in flower shops and good efficiency. So, let’s answer the main question: “Does lavender keep mosquitoes away?”

    a lot of lavenders

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    1. Lavender is considered as anti-mosquitoes traditional remedy.
    2. You may use lavender as a repellent by applying it as an oil at the skin or planting flowers in your garden.
    3. Bear in mind that sometimes lavender can cause allergic reactions.
    4. Lavender oil is not toxic to animals.
    5. Lavender may also repel other bugs, especially moths and flees.
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    So, do mosquitoes like lavender? No, surely not. As you can see from the first paragraph, lavender is a frequently used anti-mosquitoes traditional remedy. However, not the plant itself scares insects away but a lavender oil.

    The oil, which is frequently used against mosquitoes, is made by distillation and extraction processes. The essential oil can be extracted only from narrow-leaved lavender which is, at the same time, the most widely spread lavender sort. Many people like the aroma of lavender, but insects are afraid of the smell. Also, dried lavender flowers are often used to scare away moths.

    Mosquitoes try to avoid the source of the odor, and there are a couple of reasons for such behavior. This is due to some of the substances it is composed of:

    • camphor;
    • geraniol;
    • linalool.

    They all have extremely strong odors, which are unpleasant for most insects. Even a small drop of lavender essential oil can save from the attack of insects.

    Also Read: Does Lemongrass Repel Mosquitoes

    group of mosquitoes flying

    How to Use Lavender to Repel Mosquitoes?

    The most adopted method to make a lavender mosquito repellent is to use lavender oil by applying it right in the skin. Alternatively, you may plant some lavender flowers in your yard to prevent mosquitoes. However, planting lavender flowers is not the best way to repel mosquitoes – some other plants like lemongrass and vinegar cope with them better. Lavender flowers are better to use for getting rid of flies and moths.

    An essential lavender oil is used in a solution with other oils which play a role of the solution’s base. However, you may use it in its purest form if you are not afraid of wasting it and if you don’t have an allergy. Here is a receipt of a common base oil, which has a positive effect on skin:

    1. macadamia oil – 1/3;
    2. hazelnut oil – 1/3;
    3. Evening primrose oil – 1/3;

    You can find out a lot of different variations of base oils on the Internet, if this one is unsuitable for some reasons.
    When you get a base oil, you mix a lavender oil and a base oil in a particular proportion:

    • 2-3 drops of lavender oil for one tablespoon of base oil.

    Apply the solution to the exposed areas on the skin and it will be enough to get rid of mosquitoes. Obviously, you may want to bring the remedy with you, so I’d recommend making a spray for these purposes. Here are two variations of the solution:

    • Dissolve 25 lavender oil drops for every 1 ounce of the base oil. Mix it somewhere and use it whenever you want.

    A water-based body spray. Dissolve 5 lavender oil drops in 1 tablespoon of alcohol and add 4 tablespoons of water. Shake the bottle well before use. Now you can spray it on skin and clothing.

    Also Read: Does Listerine Repel Mosquitoes

    Safety warning

    Some people have a strong allergic reaction to particular oils and a lavender oil is not an exception. However, even despite the fact that mosquitoes try to avoid it, this oil is one of the calmest ones. It is quite fragrant, but it is not aggressive to the skin. In most cases it can be used by people with sensitive skin and small children with no problems.

    But bear in mind that such essential oil, like any other, can cause allergic reactions. A person may have an individual intolerance to the fragrance. To avoid problems, you smell the oil and check the reaction of your body. If the smell causes nausea or any other allergic reactions, you should not use a lavender oil but try out some other herbs like vinegar or lemongrass.

    lavender essential oil

    FAQ

    Some frequently asked questions about lavender.

    Which lavender is best to keep mosquitoes away?

    A common narrow-leaved lavender is the best solution to prevent mosquitoes in all meanings. You can plant it in the yard or apply its essential oil on your skin. Using a water-based spray with lavender oil is also a pretty popular method.

    Is lavender toxic to dogs?

    In most cases, it’s not toxic for dogs and cats. However, these animals have a strong sense of smell, so the smell of a neat lavender oil is unpleasant for them. Lavender flowers are also completely safe for pets.

    Also Read: Best Flea Shampoo for Dogs

    Does lavender repel bed bugs?

    Yes, it does. It affects bed bugs in the same way as it does for mosquitoes. You can use a water-based spray with lavender oil or try out planting the flower to get rid from the bed bugs.

    Also Read: How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs

    So, Should I use Lavender for Mosquitoes Repelling?

    Overall, lavender oil is a pretty effective and affordable remedy. You can make a spray or a cream with this essential oil and get rid of mosquitoes. However, the smell of lavender flowers has a better effect on moths and flees than on mosquitoes. Yet with no doubt, lavender flowers may reduce the amount of insects in your yard.

    Have you ever used lavender for getting rid of mosquitoes? Which result did you get? Share your experience in the comments below.

    Also read:

  • Does Vinegar Repel Mosquitos? Get Rid of Them!

    Does Vinegar Repel Mosquitos? Get Rid of Them!

    The entire population of the world suffers from mosquitos during the spring and summer weekdays. The itch from their bites is very irritating, and repellents rarely help. Does vinegar repel mosquitoes? Let’s see if a well-known kitchen remedy, such as simple vinegar, can help in a tough battle with mosquitoes.
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    1. You may try several popular methods of mosquito control including baking soda, garlic and even toothpaste.
    2. Vinegar may also repel mosquitoes if you learn how to make anti-mosquito solutions or sprays.
    3. You may also use vinegar as a pesticide to repel not only mosquitoes but other insects.
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    You’ve probably heard about the most popular method of mosquito control. This is obviously baking soda and lemon. However, there are other ways to fight these nasty insects, such as mint, garlic and even toothpaste. Well, toothpaste is not always able to help effectively, and mint and garlic are quite rare products in the apartment of the average person. Let’s check for some easier stuff.

    two mosquitoes on leaf

    Does Vinegar Repel Mosquitoes?

    Vinegar repels mosquitos, and this is an undebatable answer. However, there are some nuances. It affects humans and animals too, so be careful. You must read the instructions on how to make an anti-mosquito solution – a vinegar bug spray.

    Danger of Vinegar to Humans and Animals

    It seems like vinegar is an excellent thing to keep mosquitoes away and treat plants, isn’t it? However, this folk remedy has significant disadvantages. First of all, the smell. Although it repels mosquitoes, it will not be a great incense for people either. It’s fine to use vinegar when hiking alone in the mountains, but if you exude the smell in the park or on a walk, people will feel uncomfortable with you.

    In addition, if used improperly, vinegar can get into the nose, eyes and other sensitive organs. The solution really irritates the mucous. Do not forget that vinegar evaporates quickly in the air, and when using apple cider vinegar, the effect is not so noticeable. You shouldn’t be lazy – buy a good insect repellent if you are going on a serious adventure.

    Also, don’t forget about allergies that you may have.

    human and dog on a walk

    How to Use Vinegar to Repel Mosquitoes?

    Every housewife has this remedy – vinegar. Let’s see how to use it to repel mosquitoes. Use vinegar in combination with dried herbs that have pungent odors. To prepare the infusion you will require:

    • lavender;
    • sage;
    • rosemary;
    • thyme;
    • apple cider vinegar 1 liter.

    Apple cider vinegar will act as an invisible barrier against mosquitoes. White vinegar smells even stronger, so it attracts bugs even more, but the high concentration of acetic acid in its solution can be dangerous.

    Take a glass container of suitable volume, put herbs in it, then garlic, and pour everything with apple cider vinegar. Close the container with a lid, and put away for 2 weeks. At the end of the period filter the ready mixture, and place it in the refrigerator for storage. Before use, dilute it with clean water 1:1. Apply to exposed areas of the skin if necessary.

    Thus, vinegar is not only able to repel mosquitoes by its smell, but also to relieve irritation after the bite of an annoying insect. Do mosquitoes like vinegar? Obviously, no. That is the reason why they can’t smell your blood when you’re out on a picnic with your family.

    If you like fishing or hunting, you may drink the vinegar instead of rubbing it on yourself.Not any kind, but apple cider vinegar. You should not take vinegar often, but if you take it for a short time, it won’t harm your health and the mosquitoes won’t bother you.

    If you do get bitten, you can apply a cotton swab soaked in vinegar to the bite to get rid of the itching and crushing. It is better to use apple or grape vinegar to avoid a pungent smell.

    Also Read: Does Lavender Repel Mosquitoes?

    Vinegar in The Garden

    Using vinegar as pesticide is a pretty effective solution. It repels not only mosquitos, but also other insects, such as flies, with its smell. Vinegar can also be used to acidify the soil and to treat plants with aphids. Vinegar can reduce the activity of some fungal pathogens.

    You can also put this solution in a sprayer to make vinegar bug spray. It is used not only for covering the bite from the wound, but also surfaces that mosquitoes are better off not touching.

    vinegar and vegetables

    FAQ

    Let’s consolidate the information and answer the most popular questions:

    What smell do mosquitoes hate the most?

    Mosquitoes are very picky about scents. They can’t stand the smell of cloves, eucalyptus, cinnamon, basil, anise, and, of course, vinegar. Also, they fall dead when getting into smoke.

    Does white vinegar attract bugs?

    No, it doesn’t. Even more, it has a destructive effect on all insects. The concentration of acid in white vinegar is very high so the smell repels not only mosquitoes but also other insects and bugs.

    Also Read: How to Get Rid of Bed Bugs

    Is vinegar harmful to cats?

    Yes, it harms not only cats but dogs too. The fumes of such a substance are very dangerous for the sensitive cat’s nose and are fraught with allergic reactions and considerable mucosal irritation. High nasal sensitivity to acrid odors can critically affect your pet’s health, so be careful.

    Also Read: Best Flea Shampoo for Cats

    So, Does Vinegar Keep Mosquitoes Away?

    I hope you learned more about how to repel mosquitoes at home. Indeed, common household vinegar can be a serious adversary in the fight against pests, but it can be dangerous if used incorrectly.

    Share your thoughts about the topic in the comments below. What mosquito repellent do you use? Are you satisfied with it?

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