If you've only ever known Vicks VapoRub as the salve your grandma would mercilessly smear under your nose when you have a cold, get ready to be surprised. This iconic blue wonder cream isn't just a symbol of childhood and stuffy eucalyptus rooms—it's now also emerging in the world of home tricks as an unexpected fighter against bugs and other uninvited roommates. Yes, you read that right. From mosquitoes and spiders to fruit flies and even rodents, the internet is awash with rave reports about how Vicks repels everything that crawls and walks.
Vicks VapoRub – that classic blue wonder ointment that used to lubricate our chests as kids is now apparently also lubricating the paths of unwanted visitors to our homes. While science is a bit mixed up and there’s no official stamp of approval from pest control professionals, many swear it works. And who are we to doubt the power of menthol, eucalyptus, and the collective enthusiasm of online forums?
Vicks VapoRub for mosquitoes? A homemade trick that surprisingly smells like success
While entomologists would probably raise an eyebrow (or at least a tweezers), many home users claim that it's an effective, affordable, and best of all, a weapon already in your bathroom cabinet. Sure, it's more of a deterrent than an elimination, but hey — if something smells like victory (or at least menthol), why not give it a try? Below, we reveal how you can use Vicks for everyday "invasions" and when it's better to call in the experts (or at least make a truce with nature).
So how exactly is Vicks supposed to get rid of everything? mosquitoes to – believe it or not – mice?
1. Mosquitoes
Why it works: Mosquitoes find the smell of menthol and eucalyptus as unpleasant as a mosquito buzzing in your ear in the middle of the night.
How to use: Apply small amounts to your ankles, wrists, neck, and behind your ears when you're out and about. Some people even leave an open pot next to their bed—a better guard than that cactus on their nightstand.
2. Ants
Why it works: Ants are not fans of strong smells. (Interestingly, many of their journeys lead to very fragrant jam.)
How to use: Apply Vicks along window sills, thresholds, or cracks where they come into the house. It acts as a fragrant line of defense.
3. Flies
Why it works: The smell is like heavy metal at its peak for them – too strong to bear.
How to use: Leave an open jar in the kitchen, near the trash can, or where flies like to organize their "picnics."
4. Spiders
Why it works: Strong aromas disturb their sensory receptors. Yes, spiders have their sensitivities too.
How to use: Spray corners, cabinets, and window sills – places where they like to sneak in. Because no one likes surprises in the form of eight legs.
5. Rodents (Mice & Rats)
Why it works: Their noses are more sensitive than your Monday morning, so the smell of Vicks is a complete no-go for them.
How to use: There's no official protocol, but logic dictates – where you think you might sneak in, leave a trail of Vicks.
6. Cockroaches
Why it works: Camphor and menthol are as repellent to them as cockroaches are to you.
How to use: Drop a little under the sink, in dark corners, or along the baseboards. Let them look for a new home – as far away from yours as possible.
7. Midges & fruit flies
Why it works: Vicks covers up the tempting aromas of fruit and waste. Which means: goodbye, fruit party!
How to use: Leave the open jar on the counter next to the fruit basket or near the trash can. Fruit flies will no longer have VIP access.
Mini warnings for maxi effect:
- This is not a miracle solution: Vicks works as a deterrent, not a killer. If you have an infestation, call the pros (or at least Google it).
- Children and pets: Although Vicks is a safe ointment, it should not be ingested – especially not in a dog's bowl.
- The smell fades: If you want it to work, the scent will need to be renewed. It's not for lazy noses.
