10 Natural Ingredients That Repel Mosquitoes Safely at Home

Nakul Jain @ Oct 03, 2025

Having mosquitoes buzzing around at home is not pleasant. Besides being annoying, they can pose a risk of dangerous diseases. Even though chemical repellents are abundant, families today prefer to seek more gentle, eco-friendly products that they can feel confident in using. That's where Runbugz steps in, bringing safe solutions containing ingredients sourced from nature to keep mosquitoes at bay while protecting your family's health.

Why Choose Natural Mosquito Repellents?

Drawbacks of Chemical Repellents

Most commercial repellents contain chemicals, usually DEET, as their active ingredient. Chemical-based products are effective, but the more a product is used, the more risk it introduces for irritation, allergies or respiratory discomfort. Chemical repellents emit total toxic indoor air quality into your home; for that reason, they are not ideal for continued daily application in the home.

Benefits of Natural Solutions for Families

Natural repellents are derived solely from plants and essential oils, so they pose no risk to children, pets or those with sensitive skin. Natural repellents repel insects effectively and almost always have multiple benefits, such as pleasant scents, antibacterial efficacy and an overall healthier atmosphere.

Top 10 Natural Ingredients to Repel Mosquitoes

Citronella: The Classic Mosquito Fighter

The scent of citronella oil can cover or mask human scent, making it harder for mosquitoes to detect an individual.

Neem Oil: India’s Traditional Remedy

Neem has been used for centuries as a natural insect barrier. When neem oil is diluted with coconut oil and applied to the skin, it protects for hours.

Eucalyptus Oil: Cooling Protection

Eucalyptus is a great mosquito repellent and pleasant because it cools the skin as well. It’s a popular option when purchasing natural sprays and diffusers.

Lavender: Soothing Yet Powerful

Lavender has soothing properties and helps with sleep while also being an effective repellent for insects. Lavender can be planted at windows, or its oil can be applied to skin to repel mosquitoes.

Peppermint: Fresh Scent, Strong Repellent

Mosquitoes dislike the pungent minty smell of peppermint. Peppermint can be added to water, and a few drops can be used as a spray for any room.

Lemongrass: Citrus Shield for Homes

Lemongrass oil is another citrus oil powerhouse. It has a very intense smell and is effective in repelling mosquitoes from your home or patio.

Tea Tree Oil: Antibacterial and Mosquito-Repelling

Tea tree oil is a natural insect deterrent. In addition to its antiseptic uses for cuts and acne, it has a strong medicinal smell that mosquitoes dislike.

Basil (Tulsi): Sacred Herb with Insect-Repelling Power

Tulsi leaves can be used as a repellent, as they release a pungent oil. Leaving a basil plant in the home can be purifying while also repelling mosquitoes.

Camphor: An Old but Effective Household Remedy

Burning camphor tablets or immersing them in water in a sealed room has been an age-old practice to eliminate mosquitoes.

Garlic: Pungent Protection Against Bites

Garlic is known for its strong sulphur compounds in food and for using garlic sprays, both of which can repel insects.

How to Use These Ingredients at Home

DIY Sprays and Diffusers

You can create sprays by combining essential oils with water and a carrier oil, or you can use those oils in electric diffusers (we recommend citronella, eucalyptus, or lavender for indoors).

Topical Applications and Safety Tips

Essential oils should always be diluted with coconut oil or olive oil to avoid skin reactions. Always test a small area before applying it.

Candles, Incense and Natural Air Fresheners

Citronella candles, camphor incense sticks and lavender sachets are some of the fragrances that may keep mosquitoes at bay.

Safety and Precautions

Safe Use Around Children and Pets

Essential oils must never be used directly on the skin of a child or within reach of pets. If they will be nearby when you use an essential oil, opt for diluted versions in sprays or diffusers.

Allergy and Skin Sensitivity Concerns

People sensitive to topical products should always test essential oils first. Be warned that even with natural remedies, overuse can cause reactions for some people.