Natural Remedies to Keep Bugs Away From Your Outdoor Patio

Plants are the perfect blend of affective and stylish.

Furnish & Flourish – Weekly Tips to Elevate Your Living Spaces

There’s nothing like unwinding on your patio after a long day—until the bugs show up uninvited. Whether you're sipping your morning coffee or hosting an evening dinner party, mosquitos, flies, and other pests can turn your outdoor oasis into a battlefield.

This week on Furnish & Flourish, we’re diving into natural, chemical-free remedies to help keep those bugs at bay—so you can enjoy your space, bite-free.

🪴 1. Plant-Based Protection

Your patio plants can do more than look pretty—they can actually help repel bugs! Try incorporating these natural pest-repelling plants into your outdoor décor:

• Lavender – Not only does it smell amazing, but it also repels mosquitoes and moths.

• Citronella – A classic mosquito repellent, often found in candles, but even better when grown fresh in pots.

• Basil & Mint – Great for your kitchen and even better for keeping flies and mosquitoes away.

• Marigolds – These vibrant flowers naturally deter mosquitoes and aphids with their scent.

Tip: Place potted herbs and flowers around seating areas or entryways for maximum effect.

🕯️ 2. DIY Bug-Repellent Candles

Skip the synthetic sprays and make your own bug-repellent candles. They’re easy to make and stylish on your patio table.

What You’ll Need:

• Mason jars or small glass containers

• Soy wax or beeswax

• Essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus, lemon balm, or lavender

• Wicks (pre-tabbed for easy use)

Melt the wax, add 10–15 drops of essential oil per candle, pour into jars, and insert the wick. Let it set and enjoy a bug-free glow.

🌬️ 3. Use a Fan – Yes, Really!

A simple box fan or standing outdoor fan can be surprisingly effective. Mosquitoes and flies are weak fliers, so a steady breeze will keep them from hovering near you.

Plus: It keeps you cool on hot summer nights!

🧴 4. Make Your Own Bug Spray

Create your own all-natural bug spray with just a few ingredients:

DIY Natural Bug Spray Recipe:

• ½ cup witch hazel

• ½ cup distilled water

• 30 drops of essential oils (try citronella, tea tree, lavender, peppermint, or eucalyptus)

• A small spray bottle

Shake well and spray around your patio furniture, cushions, and even lightly on your skin (do a patch test first).

🔥 5. Burn Herbs in the Fire Pit

Got a fire pit? Toss in dried herbs like sage, rosemary, or thyme while you’re enjoying an evening outside. The aromatic smoke helps ward off bugs—and smells great, too.

🧼 6. Keep It Clean

Bugs love crumbs, standing water, and sticky drink spills. Regularly clean your patio surfaces and empty any containers that collect water (like unused planters or saucers).

Pro tip: Wipe down your patio table with a mix of vinegar and lemon juice—it smells fresh to you, but bugs hate it.

🌿 Final Thoughts

With a few natural tricks up your sleeve, you can reclaim your outdoor space from buzzing invaders—no chemicals required. Combine these tips with cozy furniture, soft lighting, and a chilled drink, and you’ve got the perfect bug-free patio setup.

Stay tuned this Wednesday on Furnish & Flourish as we break down the perfect rug sizes for every space—indoors and out! Whether you're styling a living room or defining your patio lounge area, we've got the sizing guide you didn't know you needed.

👉 New posts drop every Wednesday, so be sure to check back weekly for fresh inspiration and real-life design advice you can actually use.

Thanks for following along—can’t wait to share more with you!

— Karrie 💛