To deter wasps effectively, you can use several natural and DIY methods:
Natural Wasp Deterrents
- Essential Oils Spray: Wasps dislike scents such as clove, lemongrass, geranium, peppermint, and lavender. Mix a few drops of these essential oils with water and a few tablespoons of dish soap in a spray bottle. Spray this mixture around areas where wasps tend to build nests, such as under eaves, porch roofs, and other crevices
- Plant Wasp-Repelling Herbs and Flowers: Planting herbs like lemongrass, peppermint, thyme, eucalyptus, bay leaves, and citronella, or flowers like marigolds and geraniums around your home can help keep wasps away as they avoid these scents
- Citrus Peels and Oils: Wasps are repelled by strong citrus scents. Use lemon, lime, orange peels, or citrus oils like lemon balm and citronella to disrupt their scent receptors and deter them from nesting nearby
- Hang a Fake Wasp Nest: Wasps are territorial and tend to avoid areas with existing nests. Hanging a decoy nest made from paper bags or purchasing fake nests can discourage wasps from settling in your area
- Hang Dryer Sheets: Some people find that hanging dryer sheets around patios, decks, or mailboxes can deter wasps, though results may vary
DIY Wasp Traps and Sprays
- Homemade Wasp Trap: Cut the top third off a plastic bottle, invert it, and place it inside the bottom part to create a funnel. Fill the bottom with a sweet lure such as sugar water, soda, beer, or wine mixed with dish soap. Wasps enter but cannot escape and drown. Place traps away from areas where people eat or gather
- Soap and Water Spray: Mix two tablespoons of dish soap with water in a spray bottle and spray directly on wasp nests to suffocate and kill wasps instantly. This is effective for small nests
- Vinegar Solution: A mixture of apple cider vinegar, sugar, and water can attract and drown wasps when left near nests
Other Preventive Measures
- Seal Entry Points: Close and seal gaps, cracks, or openings around your home, including eaves, siding, windows, and doors, to prevent wasps from entering and nesting inside
- Clean Up Food Sources: Wasps are attracted to protein and sugary foods. Keep your yard clean by removing food scraps, cleaning grills, and emptying soda cans to reduce attractants
- Spray Decks and Patios: Spray a mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar with a few drops of dish soap on decks and patios to repel wasps temporarily
Using a combination of these natural repellents, traps, and preventive steps can effectively deter wasps from your home and outdoor areas without resorting to harsh pesticides
