Who doesn’t enjoy spending evenings on the balcony during pleasant weather, and perhaps even setting up a table for a meal? However, these delightful plans are often thwarted by the ever-present and bothersome mosquitoes.
While there are numerous methods to repel mosquitoes, from applying skin-based repellents to using chemical sprays and electronic devices, not many people are aware that a single natural ingredient can bid farewell to mosquitoes once and for all: coffee.
The aroma of coffee is unbearable for some insects, including mosquitoes, causing them to steer clear. Below, we’ll explain various ways to use coffee to keep mosquitoes at bay.
Coffee-Based Spray:
- Prepare coffee as you normally would and mix it with an equal part of water. To enhance its effectiveness, add a small amount of vinegar.
- Pour this coffee and water mixture into a spray bottle.
- Spray the solution in the corners of your balcony, terrace, or around windows. This remedy will create an invisible barrier that deters mosquitoes from approaching.
Coffee Grounds:
- Save used coffee grounds and allow them to dry thoroughly.
- Place the dried coffee grounds in a saucer covered with foil.
- Using a lighter or a match, carefully ignite the coffee grounds. Ensure you conduct this operation in a safe place to prevent accidents.
- The coffee will not produce a flame but will release a significant amount of smoke, which will keep mosquitoes away effectively.
In Stagnant Water:
Mosquitoes tend to breed in areas with stagnant water, such as plant saucers.
- Scatter coffee grounds in places where stagnant water is present to reduce the chances of mosquito larvae developing.
- Additionally, mosquito eggs are attracted to the water’s surface. The coffee grounds, by depriving the eggs of oxygen, will cause them to perish.
On Plant Soil:
- Sprinkle coffee grounds on the surface of your plant’s soil.
- Aside from providing fertilization benefits, coffee grounds will also help protect your plants from ants and other insects.
- The coffee grounds will act as a natural mosquito repellent, ensuring a more pleasant environment.