When I first read this tidbit of advice on how to get rid of mosquitoes, I have to admit I was excited since I was sure I probably had some Listerine in the bathroom. Take Listerine and put it in a spray bottle. Then spray around where mosquitoes reside. Voila! No more mosquitoes!
Since I wanted a tad bit more information, I googled it and wouldn’t you know the first link is to Snopes. Snopes is the place to learn to truth about urban legends, old wives tales, and in general Internet rumors. Apparently it does work and will kill the mosquitoes it is directly sprayed on but says “false” to the claim that it will help repel mosquitoes.
I may try it anyway. I mean we already use Listerine, so all I need is a spray bottle. If it knocks out even 10% of the local mosquito population, then I’ll be happy.
Since my original post, I have used the generic form of Listerine around our front porch to see if it deters mosquitoes. The smell seems to last for about a day and that’s about how long there seems to be a decrease in mosquitoes. It could be just my imagination but definitely seems we are bitten less after spraying the mouth wash around our home.
Update:
I’ve a follow up to this post that you can find here where I talk about why Listerine is suppose to work on mosquitoes.
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