Before stumbling across some information on using coffee grounds to repel mosquitoes, this question gave me some sleepless nights. I can remember how I used to scratch my head! So now, before I tell you what I found, why do you think burnt coffee grounds repel mosquitoes?
I’m sure you are scratching your head. Well, as I await your answer, here is what I found.
Quick summary
- According to EPA, coffee grounds are a safe and effective way to keep pests away.
- They can be used to repel not only mosquitoes but also annoying insects like bees and wasps.
- Some websites reported that during the Zika virus outbreak in 2016, coffee grounds were used as the best option.
- They are a cheaper alternative to artificial sprays, especially if you spend most of the time outside.
Why are coffee grounds effective?
Coffee grounds have a strong smell, which gets stronger when burned. Now, considering most bugs have a very sense of smell, they will be bothered by the ground smell keeping them away. Besides, since most insects’ smoke signals danger, they will find shelter elsewhere when they detect any smoke.
Does drinking coffee repel mosquitoes?
Unfortunately, no. They would have to smell caffeine on you. Coffee grounds have a strong smell but are much stronger when burnt. This scent will annoy and hold pests away.
Can I rub coffee grounds on my body?
Rubbing your skin’s coffee grounds won’t hurt, but it won’t help either. But if you can monitor where the mosquitoes live, you can at least slow the growth of potential pests, if not kill them.
How do you use coffee grounds to get rid of mosquitoes?
Do the following to burn your coffee grounds:
- Start with dry grounds. They can either be fresh or leftover coffee grounds. If used, make sure they are completely dry.
- Place them in a frying pan.
- Stir and let it cook until smoke starts to appear.
- Pick a spot upwind of your location for the best results.
- You can add fresh bay leaves to the fire for extra repellent.
- If outdoor, you may want to set up several burning spots surrounding your gathering.
Inhibiting the growth of mosquito larvae
Another study suggests that burnt coffee grounds, together with caffeine, impede the growth of mosquito larvae. This happens because caffeine prevents mosquitoes from swimming to the surface, killing them before becoming adults. Caffeine and diterpenes can be highly toxic to insects.
Side note:
- This study only focused on the mosquito species Aedes aegypti. Other species may respond differently. Be careful!
- Caffeine has different effects on different insects. For mosquitoes, it stops them from swimming up to the surface.
- Some mosquito larvae could benefit from the introduction of coffee grounds. So, if not sure about the species, be cautious as they can multiply instead of vanishing.
How to achieve this:
- Burn used coffee grounds. It is up to you whether to use recently used grounds or not.
- Spread them around. You may be forced to pour coffee grounds into every water source if you are unsure where to find them.
- You will either prevent larvae development or give them free food. It is risky but worth it.
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Disclosure: No compensation or free products were received in exchange for writing this review.
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