There’s nothing like kicking back outdoors on a warm evening—until the mozzies crash the party. If you’re tired of being a walking buffet for these little bloodsuckers, the good news is that nature’s got your back. Some scents send mosquitoes packing faster than a backpacker who’s just spotted a huntsman. Let’s dive into what smells mosquitoes hate the most and how you can use them to stay bite-free.
1. Citronella
Citronella is one of the most well-known natural mosquito deterrents, and for good reason. It’s extracted from lemongrass, which thrives in warmer regions of Australia, particularly in Queensland and the Northern Territory. Citronella works by masking the scents that attract mosquitoes, making it harder for them to find you.
Where to find it: You’ll spot citronella in candles, sprays, and lotions, but for a stronger barrier, look for repellents that use citronella in high concentrations—like The Locals’ mozzie-fighting lineup.
2. Lavender
We humans love lavender for its calming, sleep-inducing properties, but mosquitoes? Not so much. The floral scent disrupts their ability to sniff out human hosts, making it a great natural repellent. Plus, lavender’s anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe itchy bites if they’ve already gotten to you.
Where to find it: Lavender is widely grown in Australia, particularly in Tasmania and Victoria, where the cooler climate helps it thrive. You’ll find lavender oils and sprays in health stores, or you can plant your own to keep mozzies away naturally.
3. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus isn’t just iconic for its fresh, invigorating scent—it’s also a powerhouse mosquito deterrent. Specifically, lemon eucalyptus is recognised for its high levels of PMD (para-menthane-3,8-diol), an ingredient so effective that the CDC has listed it as a proven alternative to synthetic repellents.
Where to find it: Lucky for us, Australia is home to over 800 species of eucalyptus trees, with many native to NSW, Victoria, and WA. You can find eucalyptus oil in pharmacies and health stores nationwide.
4. Peppermint
Peppermint’s sharp, refreshing scent might wake you up in the morning, but it sends mozzies flying in the other direction. They find its intense aroma overwhelming, making it a great natural shield. Plus, peppermint provides a cooling sensation on the skin—perfect for those sweltering summer nights.
Where to find it: Peppermint grows well in Australia, particularly in temperate regions like Victoria and South Australia. You can buy peppermint oil from essential oil suppliers, or simply crush fresh leaves and rub them on your skin for a quick (but temporary) mozzie deterrent.
5. Tea Tree Oil
Another homegrown hero, tea tree oil is famous for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, but did you know it’s also a mozzie repellent? It disrupts their ability to communicate and land on your skin, making it a solid choice for keeping the bugs at bay. As a bonus, it helps soothe existing bites.
Where to find it: Tea tree oil is native to Australia, with most of the world’s supply coming from plantations in NSW and Queensland. You’ll find it in pharmacies, health stores, and natural repellents like The Locals Sandfly & Mozzie Stuff.
How to Use These Scents to Stay Bite-Free
Incorporating these mosquito-repelling scents into your routine is easy. Whether through candles, essential oil diffusers, or directly applying diluted oils to your skin, these natural solutions offer protection without harsh chemicals.
However, DIY options can be messy and time-consuming. That’s why our mosquito repellent products harness the power of these natural ingredients in a convenient, ready-to-use formula. Designed for long-lasting protection, they let you enjoy the outdoors without worry.
Enjoy Mosquito-Free Outdoor Fun
From backyard barbecues to camping trips, keeping mosquitoes at bay allows you to make the most of your time outside. If you’re looking for a fuss-free way to stay protected, check out our social media post breaking down the natural ingredients in our repellent.
Looking for more expert tips like “What Smells Do Mosquitoes Hate the Most?” Explore our blogs.
Don’t let mosquitoes ruin your plans—get all-natural repellent without the bites here!
