10 Best Squirrel Repellents: Keeping Squirrels at Bay (2024)

FAQs

What is the most effective squirrel deterrent? ›

Spray Squirrel Deterrents

Coyote and red fox urine seem to work the best, so consider purchasing sprays or liquids that either contain or mimic these odors. In your attic, use towels doused in apple cider vinegar to deter squirrels.

“Spread coffee grounds in your borders or add mint pots to your patio squirrels hate the smell of both. “Peppermint oil and water can also be mixed and sprayed on areas in the garden where they're causing problems.”

Cinnamon: A generous amount of ground cinnamon or cinnamon oil mixed with cayenne extract or peppermint oil and warm water must be applied to affected areas to ward squirrels away. And as elements such as rain can wash away the scent, reapply the perimeters at least once a week or as needed to get the best results.

Protect valuable garden crops by building a fence of 1-inch mesh wire. The fence should be at least 30 inches high and extend 6 inches below ground, with an additional 6 inches bent outward at a 90-degree angle to discourage burrowing. Electric fence can also serve to deter squirrels.

It is essential to look at the different repellents as squirrels will eat bark; you will want something for your food sources on the ground, and up in any mature tree you have in your yard. Squirrels are afraid of owls, and having an owl statue in your yard can be very effective.

Yes, Irish Spring soap can help to keep squirrels away. The scent of the soap is unpleasant for the animals and will prevent them from entering your home or yard. You can use either a liquid soap solution or shave bars of Irish Spring and sprinkle it around areas that squirrels are known to frequent.

Clean Up Debris: Remove any leaves, twigs, and other debris from around the yard, as they can provide cover and attract them. Trim Vegetation: Trim back any vegetation that is near buildings, decks, or other structures to prevent squirrels from using it as a bridge to reach other food sources.

Dryer sheets are often used to make clothes smell fresh and clean. They also work great for repelling squirrels! The strong scent of dryer sheets will keep squirrels away. You can place them around your property or add them to a bag and hang them in areas where squirrels are active.

Adhesive materials: Polybutenes. Polybutenes create a sticky lubricant that can deter squirrels from scaling railings and buildings. As they walk across the material, their feet may become stuck, which could cause so much irritation that they don't return.

What home remedy gets rid of squirrels? ›

Squirrels don't like the feel of mulch under their feet. Gravel is particularly unpleasant for them. So a layer of this around plants you want to protect could be effective.

Squirrels are primarily scared of predators such as hawks, foxes, and snakes. They also have a natural fear of loud noises, sudden movements, and unfamiliar objects. Understanding what scares squirrels can help prevent them from becoming distressed and ensure their safety in their environment.

Coffee grounds will keep squirrels away from your garden because they do not like the smell. Simply sprinkle some fresh grounds on the soil surrounding your plants every two weeks. You can also try spraying your plants with a hot pepper spray for the same effect.

Yes, Irish Spring soap can help to keep squirrels away. The scent of the soap is unpleasant for the animals and will prevent them from entering your home or yard. You can use either a liquid soap solution or shave bars of Irish Spring and sprinkle it around areas that squirrels are known to frequent.