Four smells that ‘effectively block and repel mosquitoes for hours’

Vinegar 

All types of vinegar can work as a repellent because mosquitoes hate the smell.

Certain vinegar work better as repellents than others – apple cider vinegar was recommended by Mosquito Reviews in particular. 

If using white vinegar, it needs to be mixed in a spray bottle with water, otherwise, apple cider vinegar or red vinegar can be applied directly to exposed skin and the scent will banish mosquitoes. 

Lemon eucalyptus oil 

Lemon eucalyptus oil derives from Corymbia citriodora, commonly known as the lemon-scented gum tree, and it can be identified easily due to the strong, citrus-like scent of its leaves.

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As for its effectiveness, a study from Bolivia found that an application of lemon eucalyptus oil was 97 percent effective at blocking mosquitos for four hours.

There are some ready-made lemon eucalyptus oil repellents on the market, or you can make your own. 

Add one teaspoon of lemon eucalyptus oil and a quarter of a cup of coconut oil to a spray bottle, shake to mix the ingredients, then spray directly on exposed skin. 

Lavender essential oil 

Lavender oil is beneficial for resisting mosquitoes, and it also has a relaxing effect to heal the itching bites of mosquitoes. 

This particular oil is also safe to use on children, and with mosquitoes disliking the scent, it will help limit further bites. 

Peppermint essential oil 

Peppermint has benefits to repel mosquitoes as some researchers note the oil has a strong repellent action against adult mosquitoes when applied to human skin.

When diffused, peppermint oil can help keep mosquitoes away and prevent everyone in your family from lots annoying of mosquito bites. 

Children usually love the refreshing fragrance of peppermint, and the cooling sensation of peppermint oil can also provide relief and ease the itching of mosquito bites.