Mosquito Repelling Hacks That May Actually Be Attracting Them To Your Yard

Everyone wants a mosquito-free yard. Each season, new DIY repellent hacks and natural remedies emerge promising to keep these biting insects at bay. From scattering coffee grounds to hanging fragrant soap bars, some hacks get popular fast — only for many to find they're dealing with even more mosquitoes. But why?

Outdoor Guide spoke to Emma Grace Crumbley, an entomologist with Mosquito Squad, who warns against the "more is better" approach to repellents. "There are many types of mosquito repellents, both naturally derived and synthetic, that can discourage mosquitoes from visiting your yard," she explains. "However, too much of a good thing can be bad." As it turns out, mosquitoes have a complex relationship with smells. "Research has shown that there is a 'sweet spot' for mosquito repellency, and applying too much repellent can actually attract mosquitoes," notes Crumbley. "The best rule of thumb is that less is more for mosquito control."

Many turn to popular hacks like coffee grounds or soap bars, hoping for a natural fix. Crumbley says that these methods are sometimes effective when carefully used, but also adds, "Several viral trends, including Irish Spring Soap, coffee grounds, and essential oils, show mixed results in their mosquito repellency." 

When it comes to mosquito hacks, many people overlook the critical details of placement and quantity, which can make all the difference. As Crumbley explains, "household products and DIY repellents aren't made or labeled for insect repellency or control." So, without strategic use, these can fall short or even do the opposite of what's intended. For instance, while cloves are often used in DIY repellent sprays, overuse of clove oil might also produce a scent more interesting to mosquitoes than we may intend.

While convenient, hacks using household items aren't designed with insect behavior in mind. Crumbley adds that "results drop drastically in repellency" if these products are placed too far from the shaded, humid spots mosquitoes prefer. Instead of putting items out of sight, she advises keeping them directly around high-risk areas to maximize effectiveness.

If you're committed to a natural route, consider adding dragonfly-friendly plants to your landscape, which can help reduce mosquito populations without strong aromas. Plants with small blooms, like certain wildflowers, will attract dragonflies and keep mosquitoes out without the need for sprays or heavily scented items. This approach also keeps the yard naturally inviting to guests without the overpowering scent of essential oils or the risk of luring in mosquitoes with an excess of aroma. If all else fails and you still need a way to eliminate these pesky insects, Crumbley notes you can always go the professional route. "For optimal results every time, call Mosquito Squad," she shared.