The best colors for repelling mosquitoes, according to researchers at the University of Washington, are white, green, blue and purple. That isn't because mosquitoes don't like these colors, but because they reflect heat and light, which mosquitoes really don't like, which is why they start to emerge at dusk.
Black. Since black, navy blue, and other dark hues trap heat, these insects are more likely to bite people wearing these shades. Wearing dark colors also makes people sweat more, especially when combined with exercise. And mosquitoes love the excess CO2 released when you perspire.
And as Zahid Adnan from The Plant Bible explained to Homes & Gardens, white clothing is cooling to the skin in a way that repels mozzies. “Dark colours tend to retain heat, and mosquitoes are drawn to heat and carbon dioxide, which we naturally emit,” he said.
They found that mosquitos were drawn most to red, orange, black, and cyan. They also found that mosquitos ignored green, purple, blue and white. When a researcher inserted their hand into the chamber wearing a green glove, mosquitos ignored it, even when it was sprayed with CO2.
Mosquitoes are turned off by several natural scents: cinnamon, peppermint, cedar, citronella, lemongrass, patchouli, catnip, lavender, and more.
Basically, to avoid being a mosquito-target you should stay as scent-free as possible, wear light clothes, avoid bogs and use an effective repellent (such as those containing DEET or icaridin).
Mosquitoes hate the smell of lavender, citronella, clove, peppermint, basil, cedarwood, eucalyptus, peppermint, lemongrass and rosemary. They also hate smells such as smoke, for further insight, see our exploration on, does smoke keep mosquitoes away?
Blue light in visible spectrum with exact wavelength of 467 nm kills 100% mosquitoes and fruit flies, while ultraviolet light with wavelength of 378 nm just kills 40% only. In short, right colour and right frequency can be an effective, safe, clean, and may be a cheap way to kill insects.
The best colors for repelling mosquitoes, according to researchers at the University of Washington, are white, green, blue and purple. That isn't because mosquitoes don't like these colors, but because they reflect heat and light, which mosquitoes really don't like, which is why they start to emerge at dusk.
The study found that mosquitoes were most attracted to four colors: red, orange, black, and cyan. The presence of these colors caused them to remain in an area longer. These colors have longer wavelengths, and colors with orange and red tones are present in human skin, which may be why mosquitoes are drawn to them.
So, if you're looking to avoid the itchy bites, researchers at the University of Washington say to avoid colors like cyan, orange, red and black. Instead, you should focus on wearing colors mosquitoes ignore like white, blue, green and purple.
Mosquitoes are attracted to black, as well as dark and bright colors. Since black is the darkest “color,” this shade will attract flying insects. However, other dark and bright tones will also attract mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes may bite you more for various reasons, including your blood type, your clothes, your breathing, or even the bacteria living on your skin.
Lavender – Lavender is not only an effective mosquito repellent, it's also touted as a powerful ointment to relieve itchy mosquito bites. This oil has a pleasant floral scent and is the safest choice for children.
Researchers used a 3D tracking system and wind tunnel along with visual and scent clues to test the mosquito biting behaviors, concluding the pests are more attracted to people wearing red, orange or black clothing. They also tend to ignore green, purple, blue and white.
MYTH: Fair skinned people are more likely to be bitten
Although they don't get more bites than darker skinned people, it seems like they do because their bites are more prominent.
The Rules of Mosquito Attraction
That means people who have a high metabolic rate and emit more carbon dioxide, including those who are pregnant, working out, or drinking alcohol tend to be more attractive to mosquitoes. The question of whether mosquitos prefer a certain blood type is controversial.
However, these usually won't work on mosquitoes. This is because mosquitoes are not attracted to ultraviolet or LED light any more than they are to other sources of light. LED lights put off less warmth than other bulbs, making them even less likely to attract mosquitoes.
Deter Insects
We may be fans of Vicks, but insects decidedly are not. Dab a bit on your arms, legs, neck, or other areas of exposed skin to keep bugs (including mosquitoes) at bay, however, it is not as effective at preventing bites as a commercial insect repellant.
Fragrances, such as perfume, cologne, and scented lotions are a known attractant of mosquitoes. Floral scents are the biggest attraction for mosquitoes. It turns out those lady mosquitoes love a flowery fragrance. So when you're addressing the issue of body odor, be sure to avoid washing with fragranced body wash.
Lemongrass contains an oil called citronella, a common mosquito repellent. Swap your summer glass of lemonade for a chilled glass of lemongrass tea or carefully use lemongrass oil on your skin for a quick mosquito repellent.
A: Mosquitoes, along with other bugs and insects, hate smelly things! Coffee has a strong smell, that a lot of humans love! To our benefit, mosquitoes do not like the bitter and potent smell of coffee grounds. One man's trash is another's treasure!