There’s nothing that quite ruins a day of fun in the sun like a swarm of mozzies and a body covered top-to-toe in bites. Ditch the dodgy DEET, and opt for these tried and true natural alternatives.

Apple Cider Vinegar

An effective mosquito-repelling drink, dilute 1-2 tablespoons of ACV in water or mix up a batch of switchel. Alternatively, dilute with water in a spray bottle and spritz skin regularly.

Lavender

The bloodsuckers aren’t fans of the calming fragrance of lavender. To keep them outside, add lavender oil to a ribbon and place around open doors and windows, or apply lavender body oil to keep them from bugging you.

Garlic

Not for the faint of heart, by increasing your garlic consumption, the garlic oil that’s eventually released from your pores provides a natural barrier between your skin and the pesky pest.

Light Colours

Attracted to objects found in nature such as foliage-like dark blues, greens and blacks or flower-like brights, donning light or neutral coloured clothing in white, khaki or beige, will divert their attention.

Neem Oil

The vegetable oil is a known natural insecticide. To use, place a few drops in an oil burner to release it into the ether or apply sparingly as part of a coconut oil mix on skin. 

Coffee Grounds

Keep mozzie numbers to a minimum by sprinkling coffee grounds over ground wherever there’s stagnant water. The layer deprives mosquito eggs of oxygen killing them before they hatch.