Putting cloves inside an empty electric mosquito heater is a brilliant “life hack” that replaces expensive, chemical-filled refills with a 100% natural repellent. Cloves contain a high concentration of eugenol, a powerful essential oil that acts as a natural insecticide. Most flying insects, especially mosquitoes, find the intense, spicy scent of cloves overwhelming and will avoid any room where the aroma is present.
This method is a “treasure” for families because it allows you to reuse your old electric “Raid” or “liquid” plug-in devices instead of throwing them away. It is much safer for breathing, especially in bedrooms, as it doesn’t release synthetic toxins into the air while you sleep. Plus, it fills your home with a warm, cozy scent that smells like a high-end spa rather than a chemical factory.
Why the Clove Plug-in Method Works
- Natural Neurotoxin for Bugs: The eugenol in cloves interferes with the sensory receptors of mosquitoes, making it impossible for them to “track” the carbon dioxide you breathe out.
- Cost-Efficient: A single bag of whole cloves costs very little and can provide months of mosquito protection compared to buying new chemical refills every week.
- Safe for Kids and Pets: Unlike traditional mosquito mats or liquids, the scent of cloves is non-toxic and even has a calming effect on the nervous system.
- Purifies the Air: Cloves are naturally antibacterial. As the heater warms the cloves, it releases vapors that can help kill airborne bacteria and refresh the room.
Recipe for the Homemade Clove Mosquito Refill
This is the easiest way to “upcycle” your empty electric device into a natural defense system.
Ingredients:
- 1 Empty Electric Plug-in Device (The type that uses liquid refills or mats)
- 10 to 15 Whole Cloves
- 1 tablespoon of Vegetable Glycerin (Or Water)
- Optional: 1 piece of Lemon Peel
Instructions:
- The Preparation: Carefully open the empty liquid bottle of your electric device. If it’s a “mat” style heater, you will place the cloves directly on the heating plate.
- The Fill: Drop the whole cloves into the empty bottle.
- The Liquid: Fill the bottle about 3/4 full with water or vegetable glycerin. Glycerin is better because it evaporates slower and holds the scent longer.
- The Infusion: Add the small piece of lemon peel. The combination of citrus and clove is the “ultimate enemy” for mosquitoes.
- The Assembly: Put the wick back in and screw the bottle into the heater.
- The Use: Plug it in about 30 minutes before bed. The heat from the device will slowly draw the clove oil up through the wick and diffuse it into the room.
- The Refresh: Change the cloves and liquid every 7 to 10 days to keep the protection strong.
Recipe for the Clove and Alcohol “Emergency” Spray
If you don’t have an electric device, you can make this quick spray to protect your windows and doorways.
Ingredients:
- 20 Whole Cloves
- 1/2 cup of Rubbing Alcohol
- 1/2 cup of Water
Instructions:
- The Soak: Let the cloves sit in the alcohol for 24 hours until the liquid turns dark brown.
- The Mix: Add the water and pour into a spray bottle.
- The Use: Spray around the frames of your windows and doors to create an “invisible wall” that mosquitoes won’t cross.
Three Tips for a Mosquito-Free Home
- Use the “Blue Mat” Trick: If you have the type of heater that takes blue mats, simply place 3 or 4 whole cloves directly onto the metal heating plate. As they warm up, they will release a strong protective aroma.
- Check the Wick: Ensure the wick of your old bottle is clean. If it looks “burnt,” you can flip it over or replace it with a small piece of cotton rope.
- Positioning: Plug the device in near the window or the door of the bedroom. This stops the mosquitoes from entering the room in the first place.
A Friendly Tip for Success
You’ll know the “Clove Plug-in Secret” is working when you notice that the annoying “buzzing” in your ear disappears and your room smells like fresh spiced tea! It’s a simple, healthy way to get a full night of peaceful sleep.
