If your kids are anything like mine, they spend every spare minute outside—barefoot in the backyard, biking around the neighborhood, or running through the sprinklers. But nothing ruins summer fun faster than mosquitoes.
I’m super mindful about what I use around my home—especially with little ones (and our two dogs!) always running around. That’s why I’ve pulled together my favorite non-toxic ways to get rid of mosquitoes that are safe for families and actually work. Whether you’re hosting an outdoor dinner or just trying to enjoy your porch without slapping your arms every five seconds, these tips will help you keep the bugs away—naturally.
1. My DIY Mosquito Repellent Spray (Smells Amazing Too!)
This spray is my go-to. It’s gentle on skin, smells like summer in a bottle, and doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals. I keep a bottle in the entryway and another in the diaper bag so I’m never without it.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/2 cup witch hazel
- 1/2 cup distilled water
- 30 drops citronella essential oil
- 15 drops lavender essential oil
- 10 drops peppermint essential oil
To make:
Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle. Shake before each use and spritz on skin and clothing before heading outside.
💡 Mom Tip: I let the kids decorate their own bottles with stickers to get them excited about using it!
GRAB MY MOSQUITO AMAZON MUST HAVES
2. 110-12 Mosquito Dunks (For Standing Water)
If you have any standing water around—like in bird baths, rain barrels, or flower pot saucers—mosquitoes will find it. The 110-12 Mosquito Dunks are a total game-changer. They use a naturally occurring bacteria (Bti) that kills mosquito larvae but is totally safe for pets, wildlife, and kids.
Just toss a dunk into any standing water once a month. That’s it! I use them in our rain barrel and even the bottom trays of some potted plants.
3. Mosquito Patches for Kids (and Grown-Ups Too)
These little patches are lifesavers on days when we’re out and about—especially when the kids don’t want to be sprayed. I just stick one on the back of their shirt or on their backpack. Many use citronella or other essential oils and work for hours.
They’re a great alternative for babies and toddlers, too, since there’s no direct contact with skin.
4. Tidy Up the Yard
Mosquitoes love clutter. Here’s a quick yard checklist I follow weekly:
- Dump any standing water (old buckets, toys, planters)
- Mow the lawn and trim bushes
- Clean out gutters
- Shake out outdoor toys and empty kiddie pools
Making the yard less mosquito-friendly can really reduce how many are buzzing around at dusk.
5. Add Natural Repelling Plants
If you’re planting this season, include some natural mosquito-repelling options like:
- Lemongrass
- Lavender
- Marigolds
- Basil
- Mint
We planted a lavender hedge along our walkway, and it’s both beautiful and functional. Bonus: it smells amazing.
6. Use Fans During Outdoor Gatherings
Mosquitoes aren’t strong fliers. A simple box fan or two during your next outdoor dinner can make a huge difference. Point it at the seating area and watch them disappear. This is one of my favorite hosting hacks for summer.
Keeping mosquitoes away doesn’t have to mean harsh chemicals or toxic sprays. These non-toxic, mom-approved tips help protect your home and family—without sacrificing safety or peace of mind.
Whether you DIY your spray, drop in a Mosquito Dunk, or arm the kids with citronella patches, every little step helps make summer more enjoyable (and less itchy!).
Got a go-to mosquito trick I should try? Let me know in the comments!
