What Smell Do Wasps Hate? Natural Ways to Repel Wasps and Bees

Posted by Matthew Rathbone on February 07, 2023 · 2 mins read

Are you tired of being bothered by wasps while enjoying your backyard? Do you want to learn how to keep these stinging insects away without using harmful chemicals? Keep reading to discover the natural scents that wasps and bees hate.

DIY Wasp removal recommendations

For non aggressive wasps I've had great luck spraying the nests with this Spectracide wasp remover in the evening. For more aggressive wasps I also use this rediculous looking upper torso Beekeeping suit. It seems silly, but trust me, it's amazing.

What Attracts Wasps and Bees to Your Backyard?

Before we dive into the smells that wasps hate, it’s important to understand what attracts them to your backyard in the first place. Wasps are attracted to sweet-smelling things like flowers, fruits, and sugary drinks. They also like protein-rich foods like meat and pet food. Bees are attracted to flowers and other plants that produce nectar.

What Smells Do Wasps Hate?

  1. Peppermint Oil: Wasps and bees can’t stand the strong smell of peppermint oil. Mix a few drops of this essential oil with water and spray it around your backyard to repel these insects.

  2. Citronella: Citronella is another scent that wasps and bees hate. You can find citronella candles and torches at most home improvement stores.

  3. Eucalyptus: The strong scent of eucalyptus oil is another effective way to keep wasps and bees away from your backyard.

  4. Vinegar: Wasps and bees also dislike the smell of vinegar. Mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and use it to repel these insects.

How to Avoid Attracting Wasps and Bees

In addition to using natural scents to repel wasps and bees, there are a few other things you can do to avoid attracting them to your backyard:

  • Keep garbage cans tightly sealed
  • Don’t leave food or drinks outside
  • Cover sugary drinks and fruit bowls
  • Wear unscented lotions and perfumes
  • Avoid wearing bright colors and floral prints

Conclusion

By using natural scents to repel wasps and bees and taking a few simple precautions, you can enjoy your backyard without being bothered by these stinging insects. Try using peppermint oil, citronella, eucalyptus, and vinegar to keep wasps and bees away from your outdoor space. Happy gardening!