Discover 7 Smells Wasps Absolutely Hate and Keep Them Away

As summer arrives, it brings forth unwelcome visitors, especially the dreaded wasp. These buzzing bugs appear at moments, disrupting our outdoor picnics and barbecues. Sometimes, they even nest in and around people’s homes. Although wasps serve functions in ecosystems by pollinating and controlling pests, their presence can rapidly transform into an experience of painful stings. Did you know that there’s a way to keep wasps away without using chemical sprays or constantly swatting at them? It seems that wasps absolutely hate certain smells, so knowing what they dislike can make your time outdoors more enjoyable and peaceful.

Five Common Wasps

1.    Hornets

Hornets, like the bald-faced hornet, construct sizable nests in trees, shrubs, and corners of buildings. They tend to fiercely protect their nests, and their sting causes unbearable pain.

2.    Mud Daubers

Mud daubers construct nests using mud that’s situated in protected areas such as garages, sheds, or under eaves. While they are generally not hostile, they will deliver a sting if they feel threatened.

3.    European Paper Wasps

European paper wasps construct exposed nests with umbrella shapes in protected locations. Their behavior is less confrontational compared to other species of wasps. However, they are capable of stinging if they feel endangered.

4.    Yellowjackets

Yellowjackets are the most troublesome wasps found near houses. These wasps become quite aggressive if their nests are disturbed. It’s not uncommon for them to construct their nests in areas of wall voids and other concealed spots.

5.    Cicada Killers

Cicada killers create burrows in the soil and are frequently spotted in lawns and gardens. They usually don’t pose a threat to humans, although their large size might seem intimidating.

How to Keep Wasps Away

To prevent wasps from coming near your home and outdoor areas, thoroughly check your property for any gaps or cracks in walls and windows. If you find any, seal them up to stop wasps from getting in. If you decide to enjoy a meal outdoors, it’s best to use covers for your food and drinks. Since wasps are attracted to tasty food items, using covers helps discourage them from bothering you.

Additionally, ensure that your outdoor trash cans are tightly closed to not attract wasps with food scraps. Lastly, maintain a yard by trimming bushes, shrubs, and trees. Therefore, eliminating nesting sites and reducing the likelihood of encountering these stinging insects around your property.

Smells Wasps Absolutely Hate

1.    Peppermint

Wasps dislike its overpowering scent and will steer clear of areas where it is detected. Soak some cotton balls in peppermint oil and place them in or around your home.

2.    Citrus

Wasps hate the smell of lemons and oranges. Utilizing lemon cleaners or candles can assist in keeping these insects at bay, especially during picnics or when dining outdoors.

3.    Clove

Clove oil possesses a pungent scent that is not favored by wasps. If you mix cloves with water and apply it as a spray, these wasps will surely disappear.

4.    Cinnamon

Cinnamon powder or cinnamon oil has a strong smell wasps hate. You can scatter cinnamon around entryways or spots where wasps tend to congregate.

5.    Vinegar

The strong smell of vinegar has a way of keeping wasps away. Dilute some vinegar with water and put it in a spray bottle. Spray this formula to deter them from coming near seating areas.

6.    Garlic

The strong smell of garlic has the ability to repel wasps. You can sprinkle freshly crushed garlic cloves around the perimeter of your house or add garlic powder around window sill areas to deter them from coming near.

7.    Mint

Aside from peppermint oil, other mint varieties like spearmint or wintergreen can also discourage wasps. Planting mint around your outdoor space will keep them from entering your garden.

Summary of 7 Smells That Wasps Absolutely Hate

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