6 Ways To Use Cloves To Keep Mosquitoes Away

Dealing with mosquitoes can be a pesky problem. Using natural methods to keep these unwanted guests away is not only eco-friendly but also more convenient for those who prefer to avoid chemicals.

One such natural method is using cloves to repel mosquitoes. Cloves, which are aromatic flower buds of a tree in the Myrtaceae family, have been traditionally used as a mosquito repellent due to their strong scent and natural compounds that mosquitoes find repulsive.

The main reason for their effectiveness is the presence of a natural compound called eugenol, which is known to have insecticidal properties. This compound, when released into the air around your home or outdoor areas, deters mosquitoes by irritating their senses, making them avoid the area altogether.

With these factors in mind, there are various creative ways to use cloves to keep mosquitoes at bay, ranging from concocting natural sprays to crafting decorative yet functional accessories. Moving forward, this article will further delve into the different forms of cloves that can be used to repel mosquitoes, alongside other natural mosquito repellents and tips on effectively keeping your home and yard mosquito-free during outdoor activities.

Why Mosquitoes Hate Cloves

Mosquitoes are tiny pests that can cause a lot of trouble in our lives. They’re not only annoying but also carry a variety of diseases. To avoid these issues, many are searching for natural methods to repel mosquitoes.

Cloves are one possible solution, and let’s be honest, who wouldn’t choose the sweet, spicy scent of cloves over those pesky bloodsuckers? In this section, we’ll explore why mosquitoes hate cloves and six creative ways to use them to keep those little vampires at bay!

Cloves are flower buds derived from the Syzygium aromaticum tree. They contain compounds like eugenol and caryophyllene, which are natural repellents to mosquitoes. These compounds create a scent that mosquitoes find unappealing, making cloves an eco-friendly way of keeping them away from your home.

A research article from the Journal of Phytotherapy Research found that, when compared to 38 other essential oils, clove oil had the longest duration of repellency against mosquitoes.

6 Ways To Use Cloves Against Mosquitoes

Here are six creative ways to use cloves to repel mosquitoes:

1. Cloves and citrus: Pierce lemon or orange halves with cloves and place them around your outdoor living areas. The combination of the citrus fruit and cloves creates a strong, yet pleasant, scent that mosquitoes dislike.
2. Cloves and candles: Add a few drops of clove essential oil to melted candle wax, or simply insert whole cloves into the wax. The aromatic scent released when the candles are lit will help deter mosquitoes!
3. Cloth sachets: Fill small cloth sachets with dried cloves and place them in strategic locations around your home, such as window sills or near entryways. You can even hang them in your wardrobe to keep your clothes smelling fresh and free of mosquitoes. Try using True Organic Ceylon Cloves Whole for this method!
4. Cloves in potted plants: Place a few cloves around the base of your potted plants to repel mosquitoes. Not only will this keep the pests away, but it also adds a lovely aroma to your indoor jungle!
5. Cloves and essential oil diffusers: Mix a few drops of clove essential oil with water in an essential oil diffuser to create a continuous aromatic barrier against mosquitoes. Remember to change the mixture regularly as the scent fades over time. Brooklyn Botany Clove Essential Oil is my go-to.
6. Cloves in your garden: Plant cloves in your garden or scatter dried cloves around your flowerbeds. This will not only help repel mosquitoes but also add beauty to your outdoor space with their lovely fragrance and attractive flowers.

Embarking on the war against mosquitoes doesn’t have to involve harsh chemicals or annoying gadgets. By using cloves in creative ways, you can enjoy a mosquito-free zone without causing harm to the environment or your family.

Using Cloves for Mosquito Control

Cloves are a natural and effective way to keep mosquitoes away from your home. There are several ways you can use cloves to help alleviate the mosquito problem in your home, such as crushed cloves, whole cloves, and clove essential oil.

Crushed Cloves

Crushing cloves is a simple and effective method to release their mosquito-repelling properties. To use crushed cloves, follow these steps:

1. Grab a handful of cloves and use a mortar and pestle or rolling pin to crush them, releasing their natural oils.
2. Place the crushed cloves in small dishes or bowls, strategically locating them in areas where you have seen mosquitoes.
3. Replace the crushed cloves periodically to maintain their effectiveness.

Remember, mosquitoes dislike the strong scent of cloves, so crushing them helps to release the aroma.

Whole Cloves

If you prefer a less messy approach, whole cloves can also be used to repel mosquitoes. Here’s how you can use whole cloves around your home:

• Push whole cloves into citrus fruits like lemons or oranges. The combination of citrus and cloves creates a pleasant scent for humans, but is unpleasant for mosquitoes.
• You can also scatter whole cloves around outdoor seating areas or windowsills as a DIY barrier against these unwanted pests.

It’s important to note that whole cloves may not be as potent as crushed or essential oil versions, but they can still help to minimize the number of mosquitoes in your area.

Clove Essential Oil

Clove essential oil is a concentrated and powerful way to harness the mosquito-repelling properties of cloves. Using clove essential oil is easy:

1. Add a few drops of clove essential oil to an oil diffuser, and place the diffuser in problematic areas of your home. Be sure to follow diffuser instructions for proper oil-to-water ratios.
2. Alternatively, you can create a natural mosquito repellent spray by combining a few drops of clove essential oil with water in a spray bottle. Spray this solution onto surfaces where mosquitoes typically land or areas where their presence is noticeable.

By using cloves in various forms, you can take advantage of their natural mosquito-repelling properties and keep those pesky insects away from your home without resorting to harsh chemicals.

Why Cloves Work To Repel Mosquitoes

Cloves are a natural mosquito repellent that many find effective in their fight against mosquitoes. As mentioned previously, cloves contain eugenol, a known mosquito-repellent. But why is this so effective against these flying pests?

The compounds found in cloves and their oils disrupt the mosquitoes’ sense of smell, making it difficult for them to locate you and other potential food sources. This reduces the chances of you being bitten and helps keep mosquitoes away naturally.

Because they cannot locate food, they are likely to buzz off elsewhere in search of a meal.

Different Forms Of Clove To Repel Mosquitoes

Whole cloves can be a straightforward and convenient method to keep mosquitoes at bay. Simply place a handful of whole cloves around your living spaces, both indoors and outdoors, to deter those annoying buzzers.

Here are some of the best ways to use the different forms of cloves to repel mosquitoes:

Form of Cloves	How to Use	Best Places to Use
Whole Cloves	Place a handful of whole cloves in a small bowl or dish and put it in areas where mosquitoes are likely to be, such as near windows, doors, or outdoor seating areas.	Indoors and outdoors, particularly in areas with stagnant water or dense vegetation.
Clove Oil	Mix a few drops of clove oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and apply it to your skin or clothing. You can also add a few drops of clove oil to a diffuser or spray bottle and use it to repel mosquitoes in a room or outdoor area.	On skin or clothing, or in a diffuser or spray bottle in indoor or outdoor areas.
Clove Candles (Try Clove Essential Oil Soy Candle!)	Light a clove candle and place it in an area where mosquitoes are likely to be.	Indoors or outdoors, particularly in areas with little air circulation.
Clove Incense	Burn clove incense in an area where mosquitoes are likely to be.	Indoors or outdoors, particularly in areas with little air circulation.
Clove Sachets	Place a few cloves in a small sachet or bag and hang it near windows or doors.	Indoors, particularly near windows or doors.

The takeaway? The spice must flow, right into your mosquito-free life. Utilize cloves in various ways to repel mosquitoes naturally, and enjoy your summer nights in peace.

Other Natural Mosquito Repellents

Citronella

Citronella is known for its mosquito-repelling properties, making it a popular choice for natural insect deterrents. It is found in various products such as candles, sprays, and essential oils.

Citronella essential oil can be used in a diffuser or added to lotions and sprays to keep mosquitoes at bay. One of the easiest ways to use citronella to keep mosquitoes away is by using a candle such as TIKI Brand 28 Ounce Citronella Wax Candle.

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus oil, specifically lemon eucalyptus oil, has been proven to be an effective mosquito repellent. You can apply diluted eucalyptus oil directly to your skin or use a diffuser to help keep those pesky mosquitoes away.

Basil

Basil, the aromatic herb, has more to offer than just a flavor boost in your favorite dishes. It also has mosquito-repelling properties. Plant some basil in your garden or place a potted plant near your doorway to help deter mosquitoes.

Peppermint

Mint oil, derived from the peppermint plant, is another fragrant option for repelling mosquitoes naturally. Apply diluted mint oil to exposed skin, use a diffuser, or grow peppermint plants around your home.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass can also help you combat mosquitoes. The plant contains citronella, making it an effective repellent. Plant lemongrass in your garden or use its essential oil in diffusers or homemade repellent sprays.

Everlasting Comfort Essential Oil Diffuser is a great way to disperse the strong scent of lemongrass throughout your home, effectively repelling annoying mosquitoes.

Lavender

The lovely scent of lavender is not only soothing for us, but it also helps keep mosquitoes away. You can use lavender essential oil in a diffuser or create a spray with diluted oil for your skin.

Rosemary

Rosemary, another popular culinary herb, has mosquito-repelling properties as well. Plant rosemary around your home, use its essential oil, or even burn sprigs on your outdoor grill or fire pit.

Garlic

Garlic, though pungent, can help keep mosquitoes at bay. Simply crush a few cloves of garlic and place them strategically around your outdoor living space, or rub a sliced garlic clove directly on your skin.

Lime

Not only are limes great for cocktails, they also have mosquito-repelling properties. Slice a lime in half and stud it with cloves to create an effective, all-natural mosquito deterrent.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar mixed with equal parts water can serve as a simple and natural mosquito repellent. Spray the mixture on your skin to make mosquitoes think twice before taking a bite.

Neem

Neem oil is derived from the neem tree and contains compounds that are toxic to mosquitoes. Use it in a spray or diffuser to keep those pests away.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a plant that repels mosquitoes with its strong lemony scent. Plant it in your garden, use its essential oil, or crush the leaves and rub them on your skin for natural protection.

Thyme

Thyme is a versatile herb that also has mosquito-repellent properties. Plant thyme in your garden, burn fresh sprigs on a grill, or use its essential oil to help keep mosquitoes at a distance.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has been found to provide limited protection against mosquitoes naturally. Mixing coconut oil with other essential oils like citronella or eucalyptus can create an effective repellent.

Tea Tree

Tea tree oil has antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties, but it is also useful as a mosquito repellent. Add a few drops of tea tree oil to a carrier oil and apply it to your skin to deter mosquitoes from taking a bite.

Additional Natural Ways To Keep Mosquitoes Away

Maintaining a Clean Garden

Cleanliness is key when it comes to repelling pests. A well-maintained garden provides fewer spots for mosquitoes to rest and breed. Make sure to cut tall grasses, trim shrubs, and remove any debris such as leaves or branches that may accumulate in your yard.

By doing so, you create a more inhospitable environment for mosquitoes and minimize their presence in your outdoor space!

Avoiding Stagnant Water

One major way to discourage mosquitoes is to eliminate any stagnant water in your yard. Mosquito larvae thrive in stagnant water, so removing any sources of standing water can greatly reduce their numbers. Some common areas that collect stagnant water include:

• Gutters
• Bird baths
• Flower pot saucers

Regularly check these spots for standing water and take the necessary steps to prevent it, such as cleaning gutters or emptying bird baths. By tackling these pesky breeding grounds, you’re one step closer to a mosquito-free home and garden!

Calling A Professional

If you’ve tried natural repellents and still can’t get rid of mosquitoes around your living space, it may be time to call in the professionals.

Pest control experts can identify what is attracting mosquitoes to your outdoor or indoor space and suggest ways to keep them away. Use our nationwide pest control finder to connect with a local pest pro in your area to get rid of those annoying buzzing pests!

Keeping Mosquitoes Away during Outdoor Activities

Camping

Cloves are a natural option to keep mosquitoes away while you’re camping in the great outdoors. Mosquitoes are attracted to the smell of sweat and carbon dioxide, but they absolutely despise the aroma of cloves. The strong odor of cloves interferes with their sense of smell, making it hard for them to locate you.

You can mix cloves with citrus peels to create a simple, natural mosquito repellent. To do so, slice your favorite citrus fruit (like oranges or lemons) and poke cloves throughout the peels. Scatter these around your campsite, especially around your sitting or sleeping area, for the peskiest of mosquitoes.

Wrapping Things Up

Cloves are a natural method to keep mosquitoes away from your lovely garden or home! So, what exactly are cloves, and why do mosquitoes despise them? Cloves are dried flower buds originating from the clove tree, with a strong, aromatic scent that mosquitoes find intolerable.

Why cloves work against mosquitoes is due to their high eugenol content, which makes them excellent mosquito repellents. They prove to be an environmentally friendly and safe alternative to chemical repellents.

To recap, here are six creative ways to use cloves to keep those pesky mosquitoes at bay:

1. Cloves and Citrus: Grab a few oranges or lemons, cut them in half, and poke cloves into the flesh. Place them strategically on your patio or window sills to repel mosquitoes effortlessly.
2. Cloves infused oil: Mix cloves with a carrier oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil, shake the concoction well, and apply it to your exposed skin. This acts as a mild repellent without any harmful side effects.
3. Cloves in a floating candle: Create a natural repellent by combining water, cloves, and a floating candle in a decorative bowl. The warmth from the candle helps disperse the cloves’ aroma, driving mosquitoes away while adding ambiance to your space!
4. Cloves in a sachet: Make small sachets filled with dried cloves and hang them in various locations, both indoors and outdoors. This method releases the cloves’ potent scent, keeping mosquitoes far from your home.
5. Cloves smoke method: Create a smoke barrier by burning some cloves on a hot metal plate or a piece of charcoal. Mosquitoes detest the smell of cloves and will steer clear of the area.
6. Cloves plant: Growing a clove plant in your garden can help deter mosquitoes, as the strong aroma suffuses the outdoor space.

Cloves are a fantastic, all-natural solution for repelling mosquitoes. The strong scent and high eugenol content make them an efficient repellent that keeps your home mosquito-free without resorting to harmful chemicals.

Try the above-mentioned methods, and enjoy a more comfortable, mosquito-free environment!