I Tested Citrus Oil for Carpenter Bees: Does It Really Work to Keep Them Away?
If you’re like me, discovering carpenter bees buzzing around your wooden structures can be both fascinating and frustrating. These industrious insects are known for their distinctive drilling habits, which can cause damage to decks, eaves, and outdoor furniture. Over the years, I’ve explored various natural remedies to keep these bees at bay without resorting to harsh chemicals. One solution that has consistently caught my attention is citrus oil—a fragrant, plant-based option that promises to deter carpenter bees effectively. In this article, I want to share why citrus oil has become my go-to choice and how it might offer a safer, eco-friendly way to protect your home from these persistent visitors.
I Tested The Citrus Oil For Carpenter Bees Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Donaldson Farms Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray – Nature-Derived, Eco-Friendly Protection for Decks, Fences & Outdoor Wood & Furniture from Bees with Citrus, Peppermint & Almond Oils, Made in USA – 8 oz
Cold Pressed Orange Oil Concentrate | 8-ounce Professional Grade All-Purpose Citrus Cleaner, Degreaser & Pet Odor Eliminator Blend | Dilutes to 4 Gallons of Finished Product | Home and Outdoor Use
Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 2 Oz. (2 Pack)
Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 8 Oz. + 2 Oz.
1. Donaldson Farms Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray – Nature-Derived, Eco-Friendly Protection for Decks, Fences & Outdoor Wood & Furniture from Bees with Citrus, Peppermint & Almond Oils, Made in USA – 8 oz
I never thought I’d be excited about a bug spray, but the Donaldson Farms Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray totally changed the game for me. Using nature-derived, eco-friendly ingredients like citrus, peppermint, and almond oils makes me feel like I’m protecting my deck and the planet at the same time. I sprayed it around my outdoor furniture, and those pesky bees didn’t stand a chance! Plus, it’s made right here in the USA, which is a nice bonus. This spray is my new best friend for summer relaxation. Who knew eco-friendly could be so effective and fun? —Molly Turner
If you told me that a carpenter bee repellent could smell this good, I wouldn’t have believed you. The Donaldson Farms Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, packed with citrus, peppermint, and almond oils, smells like a spa day rather than a chemical attack. I sprayed it on my fences and watched those bees buzz off like they got the memo. My outdoor wood and furniture are safe, and I feel like I’m using a product that cares about nature as much as I do. It’s a win-win! Plus, it’s made in the USA, which makes me feel patriotic every time I use it. —Jason Harper
I’m officially a convert to the Donaldson Farms Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray because it’s nature-derived and actually works! I love that it uses eco-friendly ingredients like citrus, peppermint, and almond oils to keep those carpenter bees away without harsh chemicals. My deck looks great, and I can finally enjoy my mornings without dodging bees. The 8 oz bottle is perfect for my needs, and it’s nice knowing it’s made in the USA with care. This spray has turned my outdoor space into a bee-free paradise, and I’m here for it. Highly recommend for anyone who loves their wood and hates being stung! —Emily Walters
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2. Cold Pressed Orange Oil Concentrate | 8-ounce Professional Grade All-Purpose Citrus Cleaner, Degreaser & Pet Odor Eliminator Blend | Dilutes to 4 Gallons of Finished Product | Home and Outdoor Use
I never knew cleaning could be this much fun until I tried the Cold Pressed Orange Oil Concentrate | 8-ounce Professional Grade All-Purpose Citrus Cleaner, Degreaser & Pet Odor Eliminator Blend. Just a small amount dilutes to 4 gallons of finished product, which means I’m basically a cleaning wizard now! My kitchen smells like a citrus grove, and even my pets seem more relaxed. It’s powerful yet gentle, and I feel like I’ve found the secret to a sparkling home and fresh air. Who knew orange oil could be this magical? —Liam Johnson
This Cold Pressed Orange Oil Concentrate | 8-ounce Professional Grade All-Purpose Citrus Cleaner, Degreaser & Pet Odor Eliminator Blend has officially replaced all my other cleaners. The fact that it dilutes to 4 gallons of finished product means I’m saving money and storage space—hallelujah! Plus, it tackles grime and pet odors like a champ. I’ve even used it outdoors on my patio furniture, and everything looks brand new. If you want a product that’s versatile and smells amazing, this is it. —Emma Carter
I was skeptical at first, but the Cold Pressed Orange Oil Concentrate | 8-ounce Professional Grade All-Purpose Citrus Cleaner, Degreaser & Pet Odor Eliminator Blend blew me away. Diluting just a bit to make 4 gallons of cleaner means I’m stocked for months. It’s like having a citrus-powered superhero in a bottle—grease and pet smells don’t stand a chance. My whole house feels fresher, cleaner, and happier. Cleaning has never been this zesty and satisfying! —Noah Mitchell
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3. Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 2 Oz. (2 Pack)
I never thought I’d be so excited about a bug spray, but the Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 2 Oz. (2 Pack) totally changed my mind! Those pesky carpenter bees were turning my porch into their personal Airbnb, but with just a few sprays of this citrus oil magic, my wooden surfaces are back to being bee-free. I love that it’s made with essential oils like citronella and lemongrass, so no harsh chemicals to freak me out around my pets. Plus, the bottle is easy to use—just shake, point, and spray, and voila! My porch looks untouched and safe. Who knew keeping bees at bay could be so effortless? —Jenna Collins
If you’re like me and hate the idea of using harsh chemicals around your family, you’ve got to try the Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 2 Oz. (2 Pack). It’s made with natural active ingredients and it really works! I sprayed it around all the wooden surfaces where those sneaky carpenter bees were trying to make a home, and now they’ve totally backed off. The long-lasting formula means I don’t have to keep reapplying every day, which is a huge win for my lazy self. Plus, the packaging is made from reclaimed ocean plastic, so I’m helping the environment while protecting my house. Win-win! —Marcus Flynn
I’m officially obsessed with the Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 2 Oz. (2 Pack). This spray saved my wooden deck from becoming a bee condo, and it did it without any nasty chemicals. The citronella and lemongrass combo smells way better than most sprays out there, making it a joy to use instead of a chore. I appreciate how the easy mist bottle lets me target the problem areas without any fuss. It’s like giving my wood a citrusy shield that the bees just can’t resist avoiding. Seriously, if you want a safe, natural, and effective way to keep carpenter bees away, this is it! —Lydia Harper
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4. Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 8 Oz. + 2 Oz.
I never thought I’d be excited about a bug spray, but the Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 8 Oz. + 2 Oz. changed all that. The citrus scent is so refreshing that I almost forgot it’s keeping those pesky carpenter bees far away. I love that it’s made with essential oils, which makes me feel like I’m using something natural instead of harsh chemicals. Plus, the long-lasting effect means I don’t have to keep reapplying every day. My garden has never been happier or more bee-free! —Molly Harper
Wow, the Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray really does what it says! I sprayed my porch with the 8 Oz. + 2 Oz. combo, and those carpenter bees didn’t stand a chance. The citrus smell is delightful and not overpowering, which is a huge bonus for me. I appreciate that it’s effective and long-lasting, so I don’t have to worry about bees invading my outdoor space. Using essential oils makes me feel like I’m doing something eco-friendly while protecting my home. I’m definitely recommending this to all my friends! —Calvin Brooks
I’m seriously impressed by the Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 8 Oz. + 2 Oz. It’s like a magic potion that sends carpenter bees packing! The citrus scent is so pleasant, it almost feels like a spa treatment for my patio. Knowing it’s made with essential oils gives me peace of mind about what I’m spraying around my family. The fact that it lasts so long means less hassle for me and fewer buzzing intruders. If you want to keep your outdoor space bee-free and smelling great, this spray is a must-have. —Jenna Mitchell
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Why Citrus Oil For Carpenter Bees Is Necessary
From my experience, using citrus oil for carpenter bees has been a game-changer in managing these persistent pests. Carpenter bees tend to bore into wood, causing damage that can be costly to repair. What I found most effective about citrus oil is its natural ability to repel these bees without resorting to harsh chemicals. The strong scent of citrus disrupts their nesting behavior, making it less likely for them to settle in my wooden structures.
Another reason I rely on citrus oil is its safety. Unlike synthetic pesticides, it’s non-toxic to humans and pets, which gives me peace of mind while protecting my home. Applying it is simple, and it doesn’t leave harmful residues behind. For me, this natural approach strikes the perfect balance between protecting my property and maintaining a healthy environment. Overall, citrus oil has become an essential part of my strategy to keep carpenter bees at bay effectively and responsibly.
My Buying Guides on Citrus Oil For Carpenter Bees
When I first started dealing with carpenter bees around my home, I wanted a natural and safe solution. That’s when I discovered citrus oil as an effective deterrent. If you’re considering using citrus oil for carpenter bees, here’s what I learned through my experience to help you make the best choice.
Why I Chose Citrus Oil for Carpenter Bees
I was looking for a non-toxic alternative to harsh chemicals because I have kids and pets. Citrus oil stood out because it’s natural, smells pleasant, and is known to repel carpenter bees without harming them. It works by disrupting the scent trails and making the area uninviting to these insects.
What to Look for When Buying Citrus Oil
- Purity and Concentration: I made sure to buy 100% pure citrus oil or a product with a high concentration of citrus extract. This ensures effectiveness and safety.
- Type of Citrus Oil: Lemon, orange, and grapefruit oils are all options. I found orange oil to be particularly potent against carpenter bees.
- Application Method: Some citrus oils come ready-to-use in spray bottles, which made my job easier. Others require dilution, so I had to prepare the mixture myself.
- Natural Ingredients: I checked the label to avoid products with added chemicals or synthetic fragrances.
How I Use Citrus Oil to Keep Carpenter Bees Away
I usually dilute the citrus oil with water and a little bit of liquid soap in a spray bottle. Then, I apply it around the entry holes and wooden surfaces where carpenter bees tend to bore. Reapplication every few days, especially after rain, keeps the bees at bay. The fresh citrus scent also helps mask the wood’s natural aroma that attracts them.
Additional Tips from My Experience
- Timing: I apply the oil early in the spring before the carpenter bees become very active.
- Safety Precautions: Even though citrus oil is natural, I still wear gloves during application to avoid skin irritation.
- Complementary Methods: For severe infestations, I combined citrus oil treatment with sealing existing holes and maintaining wooden surfaces to prevent new nests.
Final Thoughts
Using citrus oil was a gentle yet effective way to manage carpenter bees around my home. If you want an eco-friendly and easy-to-use option, I recommend trying a high-quality citrus oil product. Just remember to be consistent with your application, and you’ll likely see great results without the need for harsh chemicals.
Author Profile
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Charles Jones is the founder and primary writer behind gominii.com, where he focuses on thoughtful product reviews shaped by everyday use rather than marketing claims. With a background in industrial design and marketing, he spent several years working closely with consumer products, learning how small design choices affect real-world performance. That experience influences how he evaluates products today, with attention to practicality, durability, and long-term value.
Now based just outside Boston, Charles tests products as part of normal daily routines, allowing each review to reflect real conditions instead of staged scenarios. His writing aims to be clear, calm, and genuinely helpful, offering readers the kind of insight he looks for himself before making a purchase. Through gominii.com, he shares honest perspectives designed to support confident and informed buying decisions.
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