Best Materials to Burn in Your Fire Pit to Repel Mosquitoes

Using Fire Pits for Mosquito Control

Summer evenings are perfect for relaxing in your backyard, but nothing spoils the mood faster than a swarm of mosquitoes. Happily, your fire pit can serve as more than just a gathering spot; it can also do a nice job of keeping these pesky insects at bay. By burning specific materials, you can create a natural, non-toxic mosquito repellent that makes your outdoor space more enjoyable.

Best Woods for Repelling Mosquitoes

Choosing the right wood to burn in your fire pit can significantly reduce the mosquito population in your yard – at least for a few hours. Here are some of the best options:

Cedar: A Natural Mosquito Repellent

Cedar wood is well-known for its pleasant aroma and its ability to repel insects, including mosquitoes. The natural oils in cedar are toxic to mosquitoes and other bugs - but not to humans - making it a perfect choice for your fire pit. When burned, cedar emits a fragrant smoke that is both pleasant for humans and repellent to mosquitoes.

Eucalyptus: Fresh and Effective

Eucalyptus wood and leaves are another excellent option for repelling mosquitoes. Eucalyptus contains compounds like cineole, which are known to drive away mosquitoes. Burning eucalyptus not only keeps mosquitoes at bay, but also fills your yard with a fresh, invigorating scent. Since fresh eucalyptus may be expensive or hard to find, so using the essential oil of eucalyptus may be a handier option.

Mosquito-Repellent Herbs to Burn in Your Fire Pit

In addition to wood, certain herbs can be burned in your fire pit to enhance its mosquito-repelling capabilities. These herbs are not only effective, but also add delightful scents to your outdoor ambiance. And the best part is, many of these naturally non-toxic mosquito repellants are either already growing in your backyard, or can be easily found in your local grocery store. 

Sage and Rosemary: Aromatic Mosquito Fighters

Sage and rosemary are two herbs that are particularly effective at repelling mosquitoes. Both release fragrant smoke when burned, which mosquitoes (in contrast to humans) find highly unpleasant. Simply toss a bundle of these herbs into the fire, and enjoy mosquito-free moments. The trick is to go for a very slow burn to extend the time these herbs will have their desired effect.

Lavender and Mint: Double Duty Herbs

Lavender and mint are well-known for their pleasant scents, but they also have insect-repelling properties. Burning these herbs in your fire pit can help keep mosquitoes away while adding a calming aroma to your outdoor space.

Citronella: The Classic Mosquito Repellent

Citronella is perhaps the most famous natural mosquito repellent. Derived from lemongrass, citronella oil is a common ingredient in mosquito-repelling candles and sprays. Drops of citronella on logs in your fire pit can ward off mosquitos, especially if you can add those drops a day or two in advance of their use, to get the oils infused into the wood grain.

Additional Tips for Keeping Mosquitoes Away

While burning specific materials in your fire pit can greatly reduce mosquito activity, combining these methods with other preventive measures will yield the best results.

Regular Yard Maintenance

Keep your yard well-maintained to minimize mosquito breeding grounds. Remove standing water, trim overgrown vegetation, and ensure your garden is well-drained. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water, so eliminating these spots can significantly reduce their population. If you’ve got a pond nearby, consider using all-natural mosquito dunks if they’re allowable.

Using Fans and Citronella Candles

Fans can be very effective at keeping mosquitoes away, as these insects are weak fliers. Setting up a few fans around your seating area can create enough airflow to deter mosquitoes. Additionally, placing citronella candles or torches around your yard can provide extra protection and ambiance. Pro tip: You can use your Walden Ash Scoop as a beautiful reflective votive for your Citronella candles. 

FAQs

Q: What are the benefits of having a fire pit in your backyard?

A: In addition to the natural, primal ambiance, a fire pit provides warmth, a fun and tasty cooking option, and a focal point for outdoor gatherings. It also offers the benefit of mosquito control when you burn specific materials in it.

Q: What is the most popular type of backyard fire pit? 

A: The most popular type of fire pit is the real wood-burning option. Wood burning fire pits come in a variety of styles and sizes, so finding the right one for you can be a difficult choice. We naturally believe that choosing a high quality fire pit, such as Walden Legacy Series™ Fire Pit, will not only deliver a better experience, it will be a better value over the long run.

Q: Why is cedar considered one of the best materials for repelling mosquitoes in a fire pit?

A: Cedar contains natural oils that are toxic to mosquitoes but safe for humans. When burned, it releases a pleasant smoke that repels these insects.

Conclusion 

By using your fire pit strategically and incorporating the right materials, you can create a more comfortable, mosquito-free environment in your backyard. Enjoy your outdoor space without the nuisance of mosquitoes, and make the most of those lazy summer nights!