Summer’s here and so are the mozzies. These pesky insects have a way of finding you even when you’re indoors. Many of us instinctively reach for commercial sprays or green mozzie coils, but they often come packed with harsh chemicals that can irritate our skin and harm the environment.
There is a better way. Whether you’re enjoying the outdoors, camping, in the backyard, or just trying to enjoy a mozzie-free evening on the back deck, there are natural ways to protect yourself that work!
First published May 2022. Updated November 2025.
What actually repels mosquitoes from biting you?
Most repellents don’t kill mozzies—they work by masking our scent. Mosquitoes are drawn to our body heat, carbon dioxide, and even the chemicals in our sweat. Repellents confuse their sensors so they can’t find us as easily.
Why mozzie coils aren’t worth it
Yes, they’re everywhere. But just because they’re on the shelves in Bunnings doesn’t mean they’re safe. Most mosquito coils don’t disclose their full ingredients, and many contain synthetic pyrethroids, formaldehyde, and other harmful chemicals. Breathing in the smoke means inhaling tiny particles that can damage your lungs—and other undesireable trade-offs. Learn more in our look at whether coils are safe.
Let’s talk about DEET
DEET is one of the most common chemical repellents. While it works, it can also cause rashes, irritation, and even blisters. It’s been around since the '50s, but we still don’t fully understand the long-term effects. Plus, it’s toxic to aquatic life. If you care about your skin and the planet, it’s not the best fit.
How to repel mozzies the natural way
Natural repellents are growing in popularity for a reason—they’re safer for us, better for nature, and smell way nicer too.
If mozzie sprays leave your skin itchy or you just can’t stand synthetic fragrances, here are the best alternatives we’ve found:
1. Essential oil deterrent sprays
This is the most common (and often the most convenient) option. Natural mozzie sprays use essential oils like citronella, lavender, lemongrass, or tea tree—diluted with sugar-derived ethanol or carrier oils to make them safe for skin.
- We’ve developed our own Biome Mozzie Mist that works and smells great.
- Lil Bit's Shoo Natural Bug Spray is another favourite—gentle enough for children and made with a clean blend of essential oils.
- Other essentials oils such as cedarwood, tea tree, thyme, and blue cypress essential oils, also repel flies, mosquitoes, sandflies, and midges in Australia.
Just a heads up: natural sprays need reapplying more often than chemical ones. Patch test first, especially if you’ve got sensitive skin, and check with your doctor if pregnant. Avoid using on kids under three.
2. Burn sandalwood
We love this option for outdoors. Burning natural Australian sandalwood keeps mozzies away without the chemical smoke of conventional coils. Just pop a sandalwood stick into a plant pot or holder. It’s calming, and super effective.
Learn more here about how to use sandalwood sticks safely and how to make your own incense holder.
3. Repellent wristbands
If you or your little ones react to essential oils, Para'Kito wristbands are a skin-free option. They release a steady scent from plant-based oils via replaceable pellets, and don’t touch your skin—perfect for kids over three and pregnant people.
4. Physical barriers
Good old-fashioned mozzie nets and long clothing still work wonders.
Wear loose, light-coloured clothing that covers your arms and legs—mozzies are less likely to bite through and less attracted to lighter shades.
For a peaceful night’s sleep, hang a cotton mosquito net over your bed. You’ll stay cool, covered, and bite-free.
Best essential oils to deter mosquitoes
These are some of nature’s most powerful mozzie-repelling scents:
- Lavender – smells amazing to us, but mozzies hate it. Also calms skin if you’ve already been bitten.
- Lemon eucalyptus – CDC-approved as a repellent and packed with antioxidants
- Thyme – shown to repel even malaria-carrying mozzies
- Greek catmint – may be 10x more effective than DEET (and it smells good!)
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Cinnamon – helps repel mozzies and can even kill their eggs
Shop our extensive essential oil range
Got a bite? Here’s how to ease the itch
Even with all the right precautions, sometimes a mozzie sneaks through. Here’s what helps:
Apple cider vinegar or witch hazel – help reduce swelling and stop the itch
Calendula balm – healing, calming, and ideal for inflamed skin
Bentonite clay powder – draws out toxins and soothes irritation
Homemade calamine lotion – simple, safe, and effective
Shop all our Natural Mosquito Repellents
