Mouthwash Beer Spray: Effective Mosquito Repellent?

Mosquitoes are a common problem, especially during the summer months. While there are many commercial mosquito repellents available, some people prefer to use natural alternatives. One such recipe that has gained popularity is a mixture of mouthwash, Epsom salt, and beer. This concoction is said to be effective in repelling mosquitoes and keeping them away for up to two and a half months. However, there is limited scientific evidence supporting the effectiveness of this mixture, specifically the role of beer and mouthwash.

The mixture's aroma confuses mosquitoes' smell sensors

The mixture of beer, mouthwash, and Epsom salt has been used as a mosquito repellent for years. It is said to be very effective, with some people reporting that mosquitoes left the sprayed areas after a few days of application. The mixture has a slightly minty smell, which is pleasant to humans but seems to confuse mosquitoes.

The exact reason why this mixture works is not clear. While some sources suggest that the smell of the mixture confuses mosquitoes' smell sensors, others attribute its effectiveness to the individual ingredients.

For instance, it is known that alcohol is an insect repellent. However, it is unclear if stale beer, which is often used in the mixture, has the same effect as fresh beer. Additionally, the primary active ingredient in mouthwash, eucalyptol, is derived from eucalyptus oil, which is a natural insect repellent. However, the concentration of eucalyptol in mouthwash is typically too low to be effective as a repellent.

As for Epsom salt, or magnesium sulfate, it is thought to play a role in regulating insect actomyosin, a protein complex responsible for muscle contraction. However, this effect may not be significant enough to explain the effectiveness of the mixture.

Overall, while the exact mechanism is not fully understood, the combination of these ingredients seems to create a smell that mosquitoes find repulsive, providing effective relief from these pesky insects.

The ingredients are easy to source

The ingredients for this mosquito repellent are easy to source. You can find them at your local supermarket, pharmacy, or home improvement store.

For the mouthwash, you can use any big bottle of mouthwash you like, no matter how cheap it is. For example, "Equate Blue Mint Mouthrinse." You can also use Listerine, which has eucalyptol, derived from eucalyptus oil, a known insect repellent.

For the beer, you can use any cheap beer, such as Budweiser. It's best to use stale beer as alcohol is a known insect repellent, and fresh beer may lose its alcohol content too quickly. You can also use non-alcoholic beer.

For the Epsom salt, you can use any type, such as lavender and eucalyptus-scented.

You will also need a couple of spray bottles, a large bowl, a spoon, and a funnel.

It's a cheap and effective way to get rid of mosquitoes

The combination of mouthwash, Epsom salt, and beer may sound like an unconventional mosquito repellent, but it is a cheap and effective way to keep mosquitoes at bay. This unique blend confuses mosquito smell sensors due to its potent aroma and distinctive ingredients. While there is limited scientific research specifically on this combination, user testimonials and individual ingredient studies suggest it is a viable option for mosquito control.

The key to this mosquito repellent lies in using the right ingredients in the proper proportions. To make this DIY mosquito spray, you will need equal parts of each ingredient: one-third cup of mouthwash, one-third cup of Epsom salt, and one-third cup of beer. It is recommended to use a mint-flavored mouthwash as mint is known to repel mosquitoes. Combine these ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well to ensure they are thoroughly mixed. Let the mixture sit for a few hours or overnight to allow the ingredients to blend effectively. Before heading outdoors, simply shake the bottle again and apply the spray generously onto your skin or clothing. Depending on your outdoor activities and exposure, reapply the spray every few hours for maximum protection.

This mosquito repellent is not only effective but also safe to use. The Epsom salt in the mixture is reputed to promote lusher greenery, so it won't harm your yard or local bee population. Additionally, user testimonials mention that this spray does not harm children, pets, flowers, or vegetable plants. While beer is known to attract mosquitoes, it is cleverly used in this mixture as a trap within the repellent spray strategy.

The internet is filled with comments and reviews from people who have successfully used this mosquito repellent for years. Some users have reported being mosquito-free for about two to three months after spraying their yards with this mixture. While results may vary, this DIY mosquito repellent is certainly worth considering if you're looking for a cheap and effective way to get rid of mosquitoes.

It's safe to use around children, pets, flowers and vegetable plants

A mosquito repellent made from a mixture of beer, mouthwash, and Epsom salt is safe to use around children, pets, flowers, and vegetable plants. While it is not recommended to spray the mixture directly on open flowers, it is safe to use in areas where children and pets are present. The ingredients in this repellent are non-toxic and can even provide some benefits to plants.

The main ingredients in this repellent are Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate), mouthwash, and beer. Epsom salt is a naturally occurring mineral compound of magnesium and sulfate, both of which have a wide range of uses and benefits. Magnesium and sulfur are important for seed germination and growth, and they also boost the nutrient absorption of plants, helping them to absorb vital nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur. Additionally, magnesium and sulfur play a crucial role in the production and function of chlorophyll, resulting in more vibrant foliage and sweeter, tastier fruits and vegetables.

While the effectiveness of this repellent on mosquitoes may be questionable, the ingredients themselves are not harmful to the environment or living beings. The magnesium in Epsom salt is known to play a role in insect muscle contraction, which could potentially deter them from treated areas. However, the concentration of magnesium in the repellent mixture may not be high enough to have a significant impact.

It is important to note that while this repellent is safe around children and pets, it should not be ingested in large quantities. Epsom salt has a powerful laxative effect when consumed, so it is important to use it with caution and keep it out of the reach of children and pets.

Overall, this mosquito repellent made from beer, mouthwash, and Epsom salt can be safely used in outdoor areas frequented by children and pets, and it may even provide some benefits to the plants in your garden.

It's an eco-friendly alternative to chemical insecticides

The Epsom salt, beer, and mouthwash mosquito spray is an eco-friendly alternative to chemical insecticides. The ingredients used in this solution are ordinarily safe for pets and humans. Plus, it is meant to be sprayed on the ground, so it is highly unlikely that your pet will have an opportunity to ingest it.

The ingredients in this mosquito spray are cited as non-toxic. The solution is also safe to use on grass. It will not harm the foliage of plants, however, it might harm the blooms of some flowers, so it is recommended to be careful when spraying around flowers.

The mosquito spray is also safe to use if you have outdoor pets. The ingredients in the mosquito spray solution are considered non-toxic. Plus, consider that you will be lightly spraying this solution onto the ground. It is not likely that your pets will be eating large quantities of dirt and grass.

The mosquito spray is also less toxic to pets, plants, and kids than chemical pesticides. It acts as a biological barrier that deters blood-feeding insects, prevents their bites, and controls mosquito infestation and attacks.

The Epsom salt, beer, and mouthwash mosquito spray is a cheap, effective, and eco-friendly alternative to chemical insecticides.

Frequently asked questions