How to repel wasps naturally from your home and living space
Whilst we may be eager for the return of the warmer weather it usually signifies the return of wasps too, and those buzzing insects can turn your outdoor enjoyment into a frantic swatting session.
Commercial insecticides are readily available to buy, however, it may be that you want to avoid harsh chemicals in your home. Thankfully, there are several ways you can repel wasps naturally from your home and living space. These natural methods deter wasps without harming them or the environment.
Read on to find out more about eco-friendly strategies to help keep the stinging insects at bay this year.
A bit about wasps
Bees are typically docile until they’re provoked, whilst wasps can be a lot more aggressive, especially if they feel like their nest is threatened.
Wasps will hover around your home if they can smell sugary substances, food scraps and sweet fragrances, which is why you’ll often find them making their way to your outdoor gatherings. It’s important to keep this in mind though for the next time you’re hosting and be prepared with some of our tips on how to keep wasps away naturally without the need for having to kill them. As annoying as they can be, wasps are valuable for ecosystems, human health and the economy, so we mustn’t aim to wipe them out.
How to repel wasps naturally
Try these natural methods to deter wasps from your home and outdoor spaces this spring/summer season.
Peppermint oil
Wasps are repelled by the strong scent of peppermint oil, which thankfully for us isn’t overbearing. Simply mix a few drops of peppermint oil with water in a spray bottle and spray around the areas where wasps are present. You could also soak cotton pads with peppermint oil and leave them in those areas or spaces where you want to deter wasps from nesting.
Citrus peels
Strong citrus scents, lemon, orange or lime, can also deter wasps. You could place citrus peels in the outdoor living spaces or on windowsills and near doors to help keep wasps away and help stop them from entering your home.
Clove oil
The strong scent of clove oil is another deterrent for wasps. Again you can mix it with water and spray this on outdoor furniture to help keep wasps at bay.
Vinegar
Wasps also dislike the smell of vinegar, but let’s be honest it isn’t the best smell for us either. You can use this in areas where you don’t want wasps to nest, but it probably isn’t ideal to spray this in areas where you’ll be eating and relaxing outdoors.
Wasp-repelling herbs
There are certain herbs, like mint, basil, thyme and eucalyptus, that are natural wasp repellents. You could try planning these herbs in your garden, or keep little pots of the plants near your outdoor space to help keep wasps at bay. You’ll reap the benefits of keeping wasps at bay, whilst also enjoying fresh herbs in your diet too.
Wasp-repelling plants
Like herbs, some plants deter wasps because of their strong scents. Geraniums, marigolds, pennyroyals and wormwood are all known to repel wasps. You could hang baskets of these plants, or keep them in pots around your patio areas and outdoor seating areas. Not only will they add beauty to your space, but they’ll also keep the wasps away too.
Top tips for deterring wasps naturally
These simple tips and tricks will also help ensure that you keep wasps away from your outdoor spaces during the warmer months.
Keep food covered
Wasps are attracted to food and sugary substances. Keep your food and drinks covered when dining outdoors to prevent attracting stinging insects. Wasps are drawn to sweet and aromatic foods, so be particularly vigilant with sugary drinks, ripe fruits, and desserts.
Ensure bins are closed tight
Check your outdoor bins to ensure that they’re sealed tightly to prevent the smell of food from attracting wasps. Regularly clean out the bins to ensure there is no food residue left behind once they’re emptied. Also, during the summer months double bag food items to ensure that there is little risk of smell to help stop wasps.
Seal cracks
Ensure that cracks around your home are sealed tightly to prevent wasps from making nests in any gaps. Check the outside of your home in early spring before wasps will be actively seeking out territories to nest.
Create a decoy nest
Wasps are territorial insects, so it’s worth hanging a decoy wasp nest to stop them from choosing your home to nest in.
Maintain cleanliness
Wasps are attracted to places where there is food residue and rubbish, so make sure your outdoor living space is kept clean and tidy. Bin any unwanted food promptly and clean up spills and crumbs quickly.
Buy citronella candles
When you’re enjoying your outdoor space in the warmer months, burn citronella candles to help keep wasps and other insects at bay. Not only do they work as a deterrent, but they create a beautiful ambience too.
How to get rid of wasps nests
Here’s where you’ll need the professionals. If you suspect a wasps’ nest in your home then it’s always best to get in touch with us and we’ll be out as soon as we can to safely remove the wasps’ nest. The risk is too great to try and remove it yourself, so make sure you call us instead.