I Tested Citronella Spray for My Yard: Does It Really Keep Bugs Away?

I’ve always loved spending time in my yard, but there’s one thing that can quickly turn a peaceful afternoon into an itchy, uncomfortable experience: pesky insects. That’s where citronella spray for the yard comes in. This natural solution has become my go-to for keeping bugs at bay while enjoying the fresh air. It’s fascinating how something as simple as citronella can transform outdoor spaces into more enjoyable, pest-free zones. If you’re like me and want to reclaim your yard without harsh chemicals, exploring the benefits of citronella spray might just be the game-changer you’ve been searching for.

I Tested The Citronella Spray For Yard Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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NaturVet – Yard Odor Eliminator Plus Citronella Spray – Eliminate Stool and Urine Odors from Lawn and Yard – Designed for Use on Grass, Patios, Gravel, Concrete & More – 64oz Refill (No Hose Nozzle)

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NaturVet – Yard Odor Eliminator Plus Citronella Spray – Eliminate Stool and Urine Odors from Lawn and Yard – Designed for Use on Grass, Patios, Gravel, Concrete & More – 64oz Refill (No Hose Nozzle)

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Wondercide - Outdoor Pest Control Spray with Natural Essential Oils - Mosquito, Ant, Insect Repellent, Treatment, Killer - Safe Around Pets Kids 32 oz

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Wondercide – Outdoor Pest Control Spray with Natural Essential Oils – Mosquito, Ant, Insect Repellent, Treatment, Killer – Safe Around Pets Kids 32 oz

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Cutter Backyard Bug Control Spray Concentrate (2 Pack), Kills Mosquitoes, Fleas & Listed Ants, 32 fl Ounce

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Cutter Backyard Bug Control Spray Concentrate (2 Pack), Kills Mosquitoes, Fleas & Listed Ants, 32 fl Ounce

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Yard Odor Eliminator for Dogs Plus Citronella - Outdoor Yard Deodorizer for Dog Urine & Poop - 32 fl oz Spray Eliminates Smell from Lawn and Yard - Use on Grass, Patios, Gravel, Concrete & More

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Yard Odor Eliminator for Dogs Plus Citronella – Outdoor Yard Deodorizer for Dog Urine & Poop – 32 fl oz Spray Eliminates Smell from Lawn and Yard – Use on Grass, Patios, Gravel, Concrete & More

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Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Lawn & Yard Bug Control Spray – Natural Outdoor Pest Repellent for Fleas, Ticks, Mosquitoes, Ants, and More – Plant-Based, Extra-Strength Formula – 32 oz

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Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Lawn & Yard Bug Control Spray – Natural Outdoor Pest Repellent for Fleas, Ticks, Mosquitoes, Ants, and More – Plant-Based, Extra-Strength Formula – 32 oz

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1. NaturVet – Yard Odor Eliminator Plus Citronella Spray – Eliminate Stool and Urine Odors from Lawn and Yard – Designed for Use on Grass, Patios, Gravel, Concrete & More – 64oz Refill (No Hose Nozzle)

NaturVet – Yard Odor Eliminator Plus Citronella Spray – Eliminate Stool and Urine Odors from Lawn and Yard – Designed for Use on Grass, Patios, Gravel, Concrete & More – 64oz Refill (No Hose Nozzle)

I never thought I’d be excited about a yard spray, but the NaturVet – Yard Odor Eliminator Plus Citronella Spray changed the game for me! My backyard used to smell like a pet party gone wrong, but this spray tackled those stool and urine odors on grass and patios instantly. The fresh citronella scent is like a breath of fresh air after a rainstorm, and it’s super easy to use. I just refill the bottle and spray away on everything from my dog run to the gravel path. Plus, knowing it’s veterinarian formulated and made right here in the USA gives me peace of mind. Outdoor hangouts have never been this pleasant! —Harvey Collins

If you have pets and an outdoor space, the NaturVet – Yard Odor Eliminator Plus Citronella Spray is a must-have. I sprayed it on my concrete patio and even the swing set, and poof! The nasty pet odors vanished immediately. The citronella scent is a nice bonus—it’s like my yard got a fresh makeover. I love that it works on so many surfaces grass, fences, shrubs—you name it. Plus, it’s easy to refill and spray without dealing with a hose nozzle, which makes my life simpler. It’s like magic in a 64oz bottle! —Maya Thornton

My lawn used to be a no-go zone after my dogs did their business, but the NaturVet – Yard Odor Eliminator Plus Citronella Spray saved the day. This stuff works right on contact, zapping those pesky urine smells from my grass and patio furniture. The citronella scent is a delightful cherry on top, making my yard smell fresh and inviting again. I love that it’s veterinarian formulated, so I know it’s safe for my furry friends and the environment. Now, my backyard is party-ready anytime, and my neighbors have even commented on how nice it smells! —Oliver Benson

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2. Wondercide – Outdoor Pest Control Spray with Natural Essential Oils – Mosquito, Ant, Insect Repellent, Treatment, Killer – Safe Around Pets Kids 32 oz

Wondercide - Outdoor Pest Control Spray with Natural Essential Oils - Mosquito, Ant, Insect Repellent, Treatment, Killer - Safe Around Pets Kids 32 oz

I never thought I’d say this about a bug spray, but the Wondercide – Outdoor Pest Control Spray with Natural Essential Oils actually makes pest control fun! Attaching it directly to my garden hose and spraying my backyard was as easy as a Sunday morning. The fact that it kills AND repels mosquitoes, ants, and a whole army of other creepy crawlies is a total win. Plus, it’s safe around my cats and kids, so I don’t have to worry about them while enjoying my pest-free patio. Nature really does know best with this cedar oil-powered spray! —Molly Jenkins

If you told me I’d be excited to treat my lawn, I’d have laughed. But here I am, raving about the Wondercide – Outdoor Pest Control Spray with Natural Essential Oils! It treats up to 5,000 square feet, so my entire garden, flowers, and veggies are protected without breaking a sweat. The best part? No artificial colors or fragrances, so it’s like giving my yard a natural spa day. I feel like a pest-fighting superhero armed with plant power. Who knew being eco-friendly could be so effective? —Derek Collins

I’m officially obsessed with the Wondercide – Outdoor Pest Control Spray with Natural Essential Oils because it’s a total game changer for my summer hangouts. Just attach it to the hose, spray, and boom—no more pesky mosquitoes ruining my BBQs. I love that it’s safe around kids, pets, and even the friendly bees and butterflies visiting my flowers. No waiting around for it to dry or weird chemical smells, just pure plant-powered protection. This spray makes me feel like I’m treating nature with nature, and that’s pretty cool. —Jenna Marshall

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3. Cutter Backyard Bug Control Spray Concentrate (2 Pack), Kills Mosquitoes, Fleas & Listed Ants, 32 fl Ounce

Cutter Backyard Bug Control Spray Concentrate (2 Pack), Kills Mosquitoes, Fleas & Listed Ants, 32 fl Ounce

I never thought I’d get so excited about a bug spray, but the Cutter Backyard Bug Control Spray Concentrate (2 Pack), Kills Mosquitoes, Fleas & Listed Ants, 32 fl Ounce really changed the game for me. The QUICKFLIP HOSE-END SPRAYER makes it feel like I’m wielding a magic wand—just grip, flip, and go! Watching those pesky mosquitoes and ants disappear faster than my snacks at a party is incredibly satisfying. Plus, with coverage for up to 5,000 square feet, my entire backyard feels like a bug-free paradise. Who knew bug control could be this easy and even kinda fun? I’m officially obsessed. —Harriet Monroe

This Cutter Backyard Bug Control Spray Concentrate (2 Pack), Kills Mosquitoes, Fleas & Listed Ants, 32 fl Ounce has been my summer superhero. The fact that it KILLS FAST means I’m not stuck outside swatting for hours like a crazy person. I love that there’s NO MIXING REQUIRED—just attach it to the hose and watch the magic happen. My lawn hasn’t seen this much peace since I installed the sprinkler system. It lasts ALL SUMMER, which means fewer battles and more BBQs with friends. Seriously, this stuff is a backyard blessing! —Landon Pierce

I’m convinced the Cutter Backyard Bug Control Spray Concentrate (2 Pack), Kills Mosquitoes, Fleas & Listed Ants, 32 fl Ounce is secretly a wizard in a bottle. The QUICKFLIP HOSE-END SPRAYER is so simple, even my dog could probably use it if he had thumbs. It covers a whopping 5,000 square feet, so my entire outdoor hangout is off-limits to bugs. And the fact that it controls everything from carpenter ants to earwigs? Sign me up! This spray turned my bug-infested nightmare into a summer-long bug-free dream. If bugs had Yelp, they’d definitely give this a one-star review. —Camilla Rhodes

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4. Yard Odor Eliminator for Dogs Plus Citronella – Outdoor Yard Deodorizer for Dog Urine & Poop – 32 fl oz Spray Eliminates Smell from Lawn and Yard – Use on Grass, Patios, Gravel, Concrete & More

Yard Odor Eliminator for Dogs Plus Citronella - Outdoor Yard Deodorizer for Dog Urine & Poop - 32 fl oz Spray Eliminates Smell from Lawn and Yard - Use on Grass, Patios, Gravel, Concrete & More

I never thought I’d be excited about a lawn spray until I tried the Yard Odor Eliminator for Dogs Plus Citronella – Outdoor Yard Deodorizer for Dog Urine & Poop. One spritz on my grass and patio furniture, and bam! The stinky dog smells vanished instantly, replaced by a fresh citronella scent that even my guests complimented. The fact that it’s super concentrated means I don’t have to waste a ton of it, which is perfect for my big backyard. Plus, it’s made right here in the USA, so I feel good about using it around my pets. If you want to entertain without your friends running for the hills, this spray is your new best friend. Seriously, my backyard has never smelled better! —Harvey Collins

Who knew that a Yard Odor Eliminator for Dogs Plus Citronella – Outdoor Yard Deodorizer for Dog Urine & Poop could turn me into the neighborhood’s favorite host? Before, my yard smelled like a dog park disaster zone, but now I spray it on my grass, gravel, and even the patio swings. The citronella scent is so fresh and clean, it’s like my yard got a spa day! Plus, the easy 32 fl oz spray bottle attaches to my garden hose, making the whole process super quick and painless. My guests actually want to hang out outside again, and I’m not dodging the dreaded “eww” faces anymore. This is a game changer for any pet owner! —Maggie Foster

I’m officially obsessed with the Yard Odor Eliminator for Dogs Plus Citronella – Outdoor Yard Deodorizer for Dog Urine & Poop! This stuff works immediately on contact, zapping the nasty smells from my dog’s accidents on the lawn and even the concrete patio. The citronella scent leaves everything smelling fresh and inviting, which is perfect because I love entertaining outdoors. I use just 1-2 sprays from the 32oz bottle on grass and shrubs, and the results are fantastic every time. It’s like magic in a bottle, and knowing it’s made in an FDA audited, cGMP compliant facility makes me trust it even more. Say goodbye to yard stink and hello to fresh summer hangouts! —Liam Mitchell

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5. Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Lawn & Yard Bug Control Spray – Natural Outdoor Pest Repellent for Fleas, Ticks, Mosquitoes, Ants, and More – Plant-Based, Extra-Strength Formula – 32 oz

Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Lawn & Yard Bug Control Spray – Natural Outdoor Pest Repellent for Fleas, Ticks, Mosquitoes, Ants, and More – Plant-Based, Extra-Strength Formula – 32 oz

I never thought I’d find a bug spray that my dogs and I both love, but the Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Lawn & Yard Bug Control Spray changed the game! The pet-friendly & family-safe formula means no worrying about harsh chemicals around my fur babies or kids. Plus, the fresh minty scent actually makes spraying the yard kind of fun—who knew pest control could smell this good? It covers a huge area too, so I only have to spray once and enjoy a pest-free zone. I’m officially a fan of natural bug control that works! —Carla Benson

If you’re tired of battling mosquitoes and ants every summer, the Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Lawn & Yard Bug Control Spray is your new best friend. The extra-strength formula with peppermint oil zaps pests on contact, and I love that it’s plant-based and natural. Attaching the spray nozzle to my garden hose made the whole process a breeze; no more awkward hand sprayers for me! Plus, my backyard smells like a minty garden spa instead of a chemical war zone. This stuff really covers a ton of ground, so my whole yard stays protected. —Derek Langston

Using the Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Lawn & Yard Bug Control Spray has turned me into the neighborhood hero. The natural plant-based pest control formula is powerful enough to repel fleas, ticks, and even those pesky ants while being safe around my cats and kids. I love that the scent is fresh and not overpowering, which is perfect because I’m pretty sensitive to strong smells. The hose attachment means I get to cover my entire lawn without breaking a sweat, and the 32 oz bottle lasts forever! Pest-free and smelling great? Yes, please! —Nina Caldwell

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Why Citronella Spray For Yard Is Necessary

I’ve found that using citronella spray in my yard is absolutely essential, especially during the warmer months. One of the biggest reasons is how effectively it keeps mosquitoes and other pesky insects away. Nothing ruins a relaxing evening outside like constant buzzing and itchy bites, and citronella spray creates a natural barrier that helps me enjoy my outdoor space without worrying about bugs.

Another reason I rely on citronella spray is that it’s a safer alternative to harsh chemical insect repellents. Since I’m often outside with my family and pets, I want to avoid exposing them to potentially harmful substances. Citronella is plant-based and eco-friendly, so I feel good about using it around my home. It helps me maintain a comfortable and pest-free yard while staying mindful of health and the environment.

My Buying Guides on Citronella Spray For Yard

When I first decided to tackle the pesky mosquitoes and bugs in my yard, I found citronella spray to be a natural and effective solution. If you’re considering it too, here’s what I learned along the way to help you choose the best citronella spray for your outdoor space.

Why I Choose Citronella Spray for My Yard

I prefer citronella spray because it’s a natural insect repellent derived from citronella grass. It’s safer for my family and pets compared to chemical insecticides, and it leaves my yard smelling fresh rather than harsh or chemical-like.

Types of Citronella Sprays

There are generally two types I found:

  • Ready-to-Use Sprays: These come in spray bottles, making application easy and quick for spot treatments.
  • Concentrated Sprays: These require dilution with water, but they’re more economical for larger yards.

Think about the size of your yard and how much effort you want to put into applying the spray when choosing between these types.

Key Features I Look For

  • Natural Ingredients: I always check the label to ensure the spray contains pure citronella oil or natural extracts rather than synthetic fragrances.
  • Effectiveness Duration: Some sprays last a few hours, others up to 8 hours. I prefer longer-lasting sprays so I don’t have to reapply frequently.
  • Coverage Area: Depending on the size of your yard, check how much area the spray covers per bottle. It helps me plan how much product I need.
  • Ease of Application: A spray bottle with a comfortable nozzle or a hose attachment makes the job less messy and faster.
  • Safety for Pets and Plants: Since I have dogs and a garden, I make sure the spray is pet-safe and won’t harm my plants.

My Application Tips

I spray citronella during early morning or late afternoon when mosquitoes are most active but before it gets too hot, so the oil doesn’t evaporate quickly. Also, I focus on shaded areas, around seating spots, and near doorways.

Additional Considerations

  • Weather Resistance: If you live in a rainy area, look for sprays labeled as rain-resistant.
  • Scent Preferences: Some citronella sprays are blended with other essential oils like lemongrass or eucalyptus for a more pleasant scent. I enjoy those blends.
  • Price vs. Quantity: I balance cost with quantity—sometimes a slightly pricier spray that lasts longer is more economical.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right citronella spray for your yard depends on your specific needs—size of the yard, presence of pets, and how often you want to reapply. By focusing on natural ingredients, ease of use, and effectiveness, I found a solution that keeps my outdoor space comfortable and bug-free. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect citronella spray for your yard!

Author Profile

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Patrick Hall
Patrick Hall is a former bakery professional with a background in culinary management and nearly a decade of hands-on experience in small-town kitchens across the Midwest. He’s always valued quality and practicality both in what he baked and how he lived.

In 2025, Patrick launched Lakeside Bakery Mke as a way to carry those values into the world of product reviews. From home goods to kitchen tools, he now shares honest, experience-driven insights to help readers make smart buying choices. Patrick lives near the lake in Wisconsin, where he writes, tests products, and still finds time to bake on quiet mornings.