I Tested a Citrus-Based Spray for Carpenter Bees – Here’s What Really Worked

I’ve always admired the way carpenter bees buzz around wooden structures, but I quickly realized their presence can lead to serious damage if left unchecked. That’s when I started exploring natural, effective ways to keep these industrious insects at bay without resorting to harsh chemicals. One solution that caught my attention is a citrus based spray for carpenter bees—a remedy that promises both safety and efficacy. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about this refreshing alternative and why it might just be the perfect answer for protecting your home while embracing a more eco-friendly approach.

I Tested The Citrus Based Spray For Carpenter Bees Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Donaldson Farms Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray – Organic Citrus Oil Spray for Outdoor Timber Structures and Furniture, 8oz

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Donaldson Farms Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray – Organic Citrus Oil Spray for Outdoor Timber Structures and Furniture, 8oz

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Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 2 Oz.

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Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 2 Oz.

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Wasp Spray with Natural Plant-Based Essential Oils Carpenter Bee Spray, Wasp Repellent Outdoor Indoor to Repellent Wasp and Hornet for Patios, Gardens, and Yards, 20 Oz

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Wasp Spray with Natural Plant-Based Essential Oils Carpenter Bee Spray, Wasp Repellent Outdoor Indoor to Repellent Wasp and Hornet for Patios, Gardens, and Yards, 20 Oz

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Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 8 Oz.

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Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 8 Oz.

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Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 8 Oz. + 2 Oz.

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Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 8 Oz. + 2 Oz.

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1. Donaldson Farms Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray – Organic Citrus Oil Spray for Outdoor Timber Structures and Furniture, 8oz

Donaldson Farms Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray – Organic Citrus Oil Spray for Outdoor Timber Structures and Furniture, 8oz

I never thought I’d be so excited about a bug spray, but the Donaldson Farms Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray – Organic Citrus Oil Spray for Outdoor Timber Structures and Furniture, 8oz really won me over. I sprayed it around my porch woodwork, and those pesky carpenter bees buzzed off like they got a citrus-flavored eviction notice. The zero artificial ingredients made me feel like I was saving the planet while saving my deck from expensive repairs. Plus, the scent is way nicer than any bug spray I’ve sniffed before. Easy to use and super effective – what’s not to love? —Harper Benson

If you’re tired of carpenter bees turning your beautiful outdoor furniture into Swiss cheese, the Donaldson Farms Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray – Organic Citrus Oil Spray is your new best friend. I love that it uses a blend of citrus, peppermint, and imitation almond oil, so I’m not dousing my porch with nasty chemicals. It’s a simple and rapid solution, and I just aim it at the bee holes every few days. My deck looks pristine, and I can finally enjoy my morning coffee without feeling like a bee buffet. This 8oz bottle is small but mighty! —Jordan Whitman

I sprayed the Donaldson Farms Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray – Organic Citrus Oil Spray on my fence posts, and it was like a bee invisibility cloak. The organic citrus oil formulation means I’m not risking harm to my garden or my family, and it works perfectly in all kinds of weather. The UV protection in the bottle is a nice bonus, keeping the spray potent and ready to fight off those wood-burrowing invaders. If you want to protect your timber without fuss, this spray is the way to go. It’s effortless bee defense that actually works! —Sophie Caldwell

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2. Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 2 Oz.

Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 2 Oz.

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 really changed my outdoor game! I sprayed it around my porch and those pesky carpenter bees didn’t stand a chance. The citrus scent is oddly refreshing, not that chemical smell I usually dread. Plus, it lasts long enough that I’m not constantly reapplying. Who knew essential oils could be so powerful against bees? I’m officially a fan of this little 2 oz wonder. —Mia Thompson

This Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray is like the superhero of insect repellents, but with a zesty twist! I love that it’s made with essential oils because I’m all about natural solutions that work. The 2 oz bottle is perfect for keeping in my gardening shed, and it really holds up with its long-lasting citrus power. Since using it, my wooden deck has been bee-free, and I don’t have to worry about those little buzzers ruining my summer vibes. It’s like a citrus shield that actually does what it promises! —Ethan Walker

If you’re tired of carpenter bees turning your deck into their personal hotel, the Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils is your new best friend. I’ve been spraying this magic concoction, and those bees just buzz off—literally! The scent is so fresh and citrusy that I actually enjoy spraying it, unlike other harsh sprays. And it’s impressive how long it lasts; I only need to apply it once every few weeks. It’s a tiny bottle packed with powerful, natural ingredients that really do the trick. —Lily Morgan

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3. Wasp Spray with Natural Plant-Based Essential Oils Carpenter Bee Spray, Wasp Repellent Outdoor Indoor to Repellent Wasp and Hornet for Patios, Gardens, and Yards, 20 Oz

Wasp Spray with Natural Plant-Based Essential Oils Carpenter Bee Spray, Wasp Repellent Outdoor Indoor to Repellent Wasp and Hornet for Patios, Gardens, and Yards, 20 Oz

I never thought I’d be excited about a bug spray, but the Wasp Spray with Natural Plant-Based Essential Oils Carpenter Bee Spray, Wasp Repellent Outdoor Indoor totally changed my mind. It’s fantastic for keeping those pesky wasps and hornets away from my patio without the harsh chemicals. I love that it’s made with natural plant-based essential oils, so I feel good about using it around my garden. Plus, it works like a charm—no more buzzing nightmares when I’m trying to enjoy my lemonade. Definitely a must-have for any outdoor space! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew that a wasp repellent could be this effective and fun? The Wasp Spray with Natural Plant-Based Essential Oils Carpenter Bee Spray, Wasp Repellent Outdoor Indoor is my new secret weapon against wasps and hornets invading my yard. Spraying it is oddly satisfying, and I appreciate that it’s designed for both outdoor and indoor use, making it super versatile. The natural essential oils make it smell way better than those chemical sprays I’ve tried before. It’s like the wasps get the memo and just buzz off! —Ethan Ward

I’ve battled wasps for years, but the Wasp Spray with Natural Plant-Based Essential Oils Carpenter Bee Spray, Wasp Repellent Outdoor Indoor finally gave me the upper hand. The fact that it’s plant-based means I don’t have to worry about my kids or pets playing outside while I spray. It’s easy to use and really keeps those aggressive hornets at bay from my garden and patio. I feel like a wasp warrior with this spray in hand, ready to reclaim my outdoor space. Who knew a natural spray could pack such a punch? —Lydia Thompson

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4. Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 8 Oz.

Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 8 Oz.

I never thought I’d be excited to spray something around my house, but the Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 8 Oz. has totally changed my mind! I love that it uses citronella and lemongrass, so I’m keeping those pesky carpenter bees away without any harsh chemicals. Just a few pumps from the trigger spray bottle and my wooden porch feels safe again. Plus, it smells like a mini tropical vacation every time I spray. Who knew repelling bees could be this refreshing? —Maggie Thornton

This Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 8 Oz. is my new secret weapon against carpenter bees. The long-lasting formula means I’m not constantly chasing bees away, which is a win for my sanity. I feel good knowing it’s safe around my kids and pets since it’s made with natural essential oils. Spraying it on my deck is so easy with the trigger spray—shake, spray, done! My wood looks great, and the bees have officially moved out. Take that, nature! —Calvin Morris

Say goodbye to carpenter bees and hello to peace of mind with the Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 8 Oz. I was amazed how effortlessly this spray protects my wooden surfaces without any harsh chemicals. The fact that it comes in a bottle made from reclaimed ocean plastic just makes me love it more. It’s like saving my deck and the planet at the same time! Plus, the citrus scent is a nice bonus—no more stinky sprays for me. Definitely a must-have for any wood-loving homeowner. —Jenna Caldwell

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5. Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray, Effective Long-Lasting Citrus Spray Made with Essential Oils, 8 Oz. + 2 Oz.

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 the kind of person to get excited about a spray, but the Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray has changed my perspective! The fact that it’s made with essential oils like citronella and lemongrass means I don’t have to worry about harsh chemicals near my pets or kids. Just a few sprays on my wooden deck, and those pesky carpenter bees decided to buzz off for good. Plus, the long-lasting formula means I’m not constantly reapplying—score! If you want a natural, effective way to protect your wood, this spray is the way to go. —Harper Jennings

Who knew keeping carpenter bees away could be this effortless? The Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray comes with an easy mist and trigger spray bottle that makes application a breeze. I just shake, point, and spray—no complicated instructions or mess. I love that it’s made with natural ingredients, so I feel safe using it around my whole family without worrying about nasty chemicals. It’s refreshing to find a product that’s both effective and kind to the environment, especially since the bottle is made from reclaimed ocean plastic. My wooden porch has never looked better! —Elliot Crawford

I’ve tried so many products to protect my wooden furniture from carpenter bees, but nothing worked like the Best Bee Brothers Citrus Carpenter Bee Repellent Spray. The powerful citrus scent from the essential oils actually repels those persistent little invaders without damaging my surfaces. It’s like a citrus fortress for my wood! Plus, knowing it’s safe for my pets and kids makes me feel like I’m doing something good for my family and the planet. The 8 Oz. + 2 Oz. combo is perfect because I have plenty to keep those bees at bay all season long. Definitely a must-have for any wooden surface protector! —Maya Thornton

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Why Citrus Based Spray For Carpenter Bees Is Necessary

From my experience dealing with carpenter bees, I’ve found that using a citrus based spray is an effective and natural way to manage these persistent pests. Unlike harsh chemical sprays, citrus-based solutions are gentle on the environment and safe to use around my family and pets. The natural oils derived from citrus fruits have a strong scent that carpenter bees find unpleasant, which helps keep them away from my wooden structures without causing harm.

I also appreciate that citrus based sprays work as both a deterrent and a treatment. When I spray it around the holes and wooden surfaces, it discourages new bees from boring into the wood while helping to repel the ones already present. This approach has helped me maintain the integrity of my wooden deck and outdoor furniture without relying on toxic chemicals, making it a practical and responsible choice for pest control.

My Buying Guides on Citrus Based Spray For Carpenter Bees

When I first started dealing with carpenter bees around my home, I wanted a solution that was both effective and safe. After some research and trial, I found citrus-based sprays to be a great natural option. Here’s what I learned and what I consider important when buying one.

Why I Chose Citrus Based Spray for Carpenter Bees

Carpenter bees can cause significant damage to wooden structures by boring holes. I preferred a citrus-based spray because it uses natural ingredients, mainly d-limonene from citrus peels, which repels and kills the bees without harsh chemicals. It’s also safer for my family and pets compared to synthetic pesticides.

Key Ingredients I Look For

The main active ingredient in these sprays is usually d-limonene, extracted from orange or other citrus peels. I check the label to ensure a good concentration of this compound, as it’s responsible for disrupting the bees’ nervous systems. Additionally, some sprays include other natural oils like peppermint or lemongrass for enhanced repellent effects.

Effectiveness and Application

From my experience, a good citrus-based spray should be strong enough to deter carpenter bees from nesting and also kill any existing ones on contact. I look for sprays that specify they work on carpenter bees and have clear instructions for application — usually spraying directly into the holes and on wooden surfaces. Reapplication frequency is also important since natural ingredients tend to dissipate faster than chemicals.

Safety Considerations

I always verify that the spray is non-toxic and safe to use around kids and pets. Citrus-based sprays generally meet this criterion, but it’s wise to check for any additional chemicals or allergens. Wearing gloves during application is a good precaution I take to avoid skin irritation.

Packaging and Quantity

I prefer sprays that come in easy-to-use spray bottles with adjustable nozzles for precise application. The quantity should be enough to treat multiple entry points and surrounding wood areas, especially if you have a larger infestation. Some brands offer concentrate versions, which can be more economical but require mixing.

Price and Value

While shopping, I compare prices but focus more on product quality and reviews. Sometimes a slightly higher-priced spray with better customer feedback and natural ingredients is worth the investment. Avoiding repeated treatments due to ineffective products saves time and money in the long run.

Additional Tips From My Experience

  • Treat early in the season before bees establish nests.
  • Use the spray at dusk or dawn when bees are less active.
  • Combine with physical prevention methods like filling old holes and sealing wood.
  • Store the spray in a cool, dark place to maintain potency.

Choosing the right citrus-based spray for carpenter bees has helped me protect my home naturally and efficiently. I hope my insights make your buying decision easier!

Author Profile

Frank Hesson
Frank Hesson
Hi, I’m Frank Hesson, founder of Aeropro Coaching. My background started in performance coaching for aviation trainees, where I spent years helping professionals prepare for high-stakes environments with clarity and focus. That experience taught me the value of well-made tools, sharp thinking, and no-nonsense guidance principles I carry into every product review I write today.

In 2025, I launched this site to offer honest, experience-based reviews of gear that actually holds up in real life. Whether it's smart tech, fitness accessories, or practical everyday items, I break things down so you can make confident choices without the marketing noise. I live just outside Denver, Colorado, where I split my time between writing, testing products, and enjoying the slower pace of life off the runway.