9 natural ways to repel mosquitoes

Nothing can ruin a lovely summer evening or serene night's sleep like a mosquito buzzing around in a hurry and with a stubborn appetite. While there are many products that can keep these irritating insects at bay, they are usually far from good for the environment or your own health. The popular sprays often contain synthetic and toxic chemicals, such as DEET. Therefore, try one of the following 9 tips to repel or keep away mosquitoes in a responsible way.

1. Citronella

Citronella is a natural oil that is obtained from the Asian grasses cymbopogon nardus and cymbopogon winterianus. Citronella essential oil has a fresh, sweet and citrus-like aroma and is widely used as a fragrance in soaps, detergents and perfumes. Mosquitoes do not like this scent at all, which is why citronella oil is very popular as a mosquito repellent. LaDrôme has a mosquito spray, a roll'on and an essential oil to evaporate in an aroma diffuser. All organic and with citronella.

2. Wear light colours

Mosquitoes can smell you from 50 metres, but when they get closer they switch to their sight. Dark colours are more attractive to mosquitoes looking for food. Research shows that light colours are less attractive to these little creatures - bring on those white summer dresses! 

3. Surround yourself with lavender 

Although most people love the smell of lavender, mosquitoes, flies and moths prefer to avoid this purple plant. Place some of these plants (organic ones!) in your garden to keep away as many mosquitoes as possible while attracting butterflies, bumblebees and bees. Also, rubbing lavender oil on your skin works as a natural insect repellent. 

4. Eat more garlic

Your partner may not like this tip, but if you eat garlic, mosquitoes are guaranteed to stay away. The garlic smell that exudes from your pores after eating is not a favourite of these critters. Think twice mosquitos!

5. Gone with the wind

Mosquitoes feel attracted to water, because this is where they lay their eggs. What they dislike less is wind. So putting a fan next to your bed is a great way to chase away mosquitoes. Even a breeze is enough to make the mosquito turn resolutely right around.

6. Urban jungle: plants against mosquitoes

Little buzzing mosquitoes don't like basil, tomato plants, catnip, marigolds, mint and lemongrass. So put one or more of these plants in your kitchen, balcony or garden. Is your BBQ on? Throw some nice smelling rosemary sprigs on it. This will not only give your food an aromatic twist, it will also keep the mosquitoes away from your party.

7. Vaporise one of these essential oils:

Lemon Eucalyptus, Rose Geranium, Tea Tree, Patchouli, Thyme, Clove, Peppermint, Cedar, Neem. Or... opt for a combination of these oils, such as the essential oils Energy, Relaxation or Respiration, all by LaDrôme. A lovely fragrance in your home and/or garden, which are good for your wellbeing and keep mosquitoes away. Two flies with one stone!

8. Serene evenings thanks to garden incense

Garden incense Summer by Aromanidse contains a synergy of plants and 100% natural essential oils of citronella, lemongrass, vetiver, lavender, lemon, eucalyptus and camphor. Designed according to the principles of Ayurveda. Lovely fragrances for our well-being, but not for the well-being of mosquitoes and insects. Summer evenings will be serene again thanks to this garden incense!

9. Sleep under a mosquito net

Would you like to be spared any buzzing insects in your home at night and/or are you allergic to essential oils, for example? Then sleep peacefully under a mosquito net. Make sure you close it tightly, otherwise Mr. Mosquito will still be able to find you.