7 Best Squirrel Repellent (Free Bonus: Buying Guide)

The daily life of a home gardener is filled with many joys: the smell of freshly turned earth, the sight of the first green shoots pushing through the soil, and the taste of homegrown fruits or vegetables.

However, with these pleasures come challenges, one of the most persistent being the humble squirrel. These agile and cunning critters can wreak havoc on our efforts, leaving us questioning our decision to ever start a garden.

Fortunately, the struggle between the gardener and the squirrel is not one that you must face alone. The solution is closer than you think—and it promises to change the way you see your backyard forever.

Our Top Pick

Exterminator’s Choice – Rodent Defense (Spray) is Our Top Pick due to its superior efficacy and user-friendly application. The product uses a potent blend of natural ingredients that repels squirrels without causing harm. Its easy-to-use spray format allows for precise application, ensuring maximum protection of targeted areas.

Buying Guide

Best Squirrel Repellent is a solution specifically designed to deter these nimble creatures from invading your personal spaces, such as gardens, attics, or bird feeders, without causing them harm.

Here is a generalized buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

• Type of Repellent: Squirrel repellents come in various forms, including sprays, granules, and electronic devices. Sprays and granules work by producing scents or tastes that squirrels find unpleasant. Electronic repellents, on the other hand, emit high-frequency sounds that are disturbing to squirrels but inaudible to humans.
• Active Ingredients: Many repellents use natural substances, like capsaicin, garlic, or peppermint oil, to deter squirrels. These are usually safe for other wildlife, pets, and humans. However, some may contain chemicals that could be harmful if improperly used, so always check for environmental and health safety.
• Efficacy: Look for products with proven results. Read reviews from other users and consider the experiences of those who have similar squirrel issues.
• Area of Coverage: Determine the size of the area you need to protect. If you have a large property, you might need a larger quantity or a product that offers a more extensive range.
• Longevity: This refers to how long the repellent remains effective. Some products need frequent reapplication, especially after rain or watering, while others can last for weeks.
• Price: Consider the cost-effectiveness of the product. Expensive doesn’t always mean better. Compare prices, keeping in mind the product’s coverage area and how often you’ll need to reapply.

1. Exterminator’s Choice – Rodent Defense (Spray)

It is one of the good quality squirrel repellent sprays. It is manufactured in the United States by a family-owned private company known as Exterminator’s Choice which specializes in making various all-natural pest control products for the home, garden, and pests around the globe.

This all-natural spray is made up of a blend of essential oils such as peppermint oil and rosemary oil in addition to certain other ingredients including garlic oil, white pepper oil, and vinegar. These ingredients are not liked by the squirrels due to the not pleasant scent and help keeps them away for a long time.

In addition to squirrels, this all-natural rodent defense spray works well in keeping rabbits, rats, mice, gophers, raccoons, and other rodents away.

Moreover, this Exterminator’s choice all-natural rodent defense spray consists of non-staining formula and can be used both indoors and outdoors without leaving any messy residue.

It can be effectively used in a garden, garage, attic, patio, or any other place where rodents, especially squirrels are found. Moreover, some customers like it due to its faint peppermint smell that does not make your car smell bad.

However, manufacturers recommend avoiding using it on painted or stained areas as it might leave stains to some extent.

This rodent repellent spray is available in 32-oz and one-gallon packaging and can be used daily.

For best results, it is advised by the manufacturers to use it in the areas where you want to keep squirrels or other rodents away for 5 to 7 days and then keep spraying as needed.

This spray-based repellent is liked by many users as it does not use any toxic chemicals and uses a humane approach for repelling squirrels and other rodents away from your property.

Customer Reviews

Exterminator’s Choice Small Rodent Defense Spray is renowned for potent rodent control.

One user said, “It is easy to use, with a pleasant scent, this product aims to repel rodents. However, its effectiveness can vary, and sometimes it may take days to work.”

Another added, “This spray, with a fresh peppermint aroma, is designed to keep rodents at bay. Yet, its efficacy may dwindle in larger areas or with persistent pests.”

Overall, they are seen as an effective, value-for-money solution for managing rodent infestation.

Instructions to use

Indoor Use:

• Shake the product thoroughly before each use.
• Only apply the product in dry locations.
• Avoid spraying the product directly on food or crops.
• Generously spray in well-ventilated areas.

Lawn and Garden Use:

• Spray liberally twice weekly to deter squirrels and other rodents.
• Following heavy rain, reapply the spray for maximum effectiveness.

Attics and Garages:

• Apply a 3-feet wide barrier inside the attic’s perimeter.
• Use the spray wherever gnawing or droppings are visible in the garage.
• Continue application as needed.

Safety Precautions:

• Store the product out of children’s and pets’ reach.
• Prevent the product from contacting your eyes or skin.
• Wash hands thoroughly before and after each use.
• If contact with the eyes occurs, rinse immediately and continuously for 15 minutes.

Get the Exterminator’s Choice – Rodent Defense (Spray) on Amazon or Amazon or Walmart or gosupps.com

2. T3-R (Ultrasonic Repeller)

This rodent-repelling device is manufactured by TMC Pest Repeller LLC—a reputable name in making many electronic pets repelling devices.

T3-R rodent repelling device uses ultrasonic sounds for repelling squirrels, mice, and rats efficiently. It repels rodents by making ultrasonic sound waves that are above the normal human hearing range.

Studies suggest that ultrasonic sounds are a very effective way to keep rodents away.

This rodent-repellent device has a unique triple-attack design that uses three speakers to transmit sound waves. Each of the speakers can be set up in different locations making an impactful unit providing maximum repelling effect.

Another good feature of this product is that it comes with a 6 feet long plug-in cord and has the tendency to stand on its own. In most cases, rodents leave within a 12 to 16-day time period.

It is safe and effective to use and does not contain any poison or toxic chemicals, moreover, it is safe to use around cats, dogs, humans, children, and other household electronic devices.

Customer Reviews

The T3-R Rodent Repeller gets mixed reviews online, even though it helps keep rodents away.

One customer praises its simple setup and effective performance against mice. They also appreciate the responsive customer service. However, they report that the device doesn’t efficiently deter squirrels, could become noisy over time, and might not repel all mice.

Another buyer commends the T3-R Repeller for its user-friendly operation and pet-safe design. They found it significantly reduced the number of rodents in their homes and gardens.

Yet, they note that it struggles with larger rodents like squirrels, and might not withstand water. Additionally, the sound it produces could bother some people.

Despite these drawbacks, they believe it offers good value for the money.

Instructions to Use

1. Locate a 110 – 220-volt outlet in the room where you want to repel rodents.
2. Plug the T3-R Mice Repellent’s 6ft. cord into the outlet.
3. Ensure that the device is working properly once connected.

Remember, the T3-R Mice Repellent uses an Ultrasonic Pest Repellent Plug-in System which is safe for use around cats, dogs, humans, children, and household electronics. Also, it is non-toxic, making it a safe option for your household.

Get the T3-R (Ultrasonic Repeller) on Amazon or Walmart or latestbrandstyle.com or repelspro.com

3. Havahart Deer Off (Spray)

This squirrel repellent spray is manufactured by Havahart that is a famous brand of Woodstream Corporation that strives to manufacture innovative, quality pest control products and markets them globally.

It is a ready-to-use squirrel, rabbit, and deer repellent spray and has a dual formula that helps in keeping these rodents away by scent and taste barriers.

The repellent ingredients used in this spray are putrescent egg solids (4.63%), garlic (0.001%), and capsaicin (0.001%). The putrescent egg and garlic scent, coupled with a hot pepper taste makes an unbearable combination for repelling squirrels, deer, and rabbits.

Havahart Deer off 32 oz. ready-to-use spray bottle is enough to treat 40 to 50 ornamental shrubs four feet tall or approximately 500 square feet area and prevents rodents from eating plants, bulbs, flowers, trees, ornamentals, and seedlings.

The formula is weather-resistant and does not need re-application very often also it does not leave a visible film or residue and does not change the color of plants and foliage.

It is suggested by the manufacturer to not apply at temperatures below 40°F, or in wet, windy conditions. Apply only in dry conditions and only under conditions favoring prompt drying of spray such as lightly breezy, mild dry weather with low relative humidity.

If the spray is used in wet conditions or in damp, cold, foggy, or misty, weather, or if precipitation or freezing may occur before the spray can dry, protection may be partially or completely lost.

It should be noted that this product contains egg solids, which may cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Therefore it is advised to use it with proper care and not allow spray to drift onto plants intended for human consumption.

Customer Reviews

The Havahart DO32RTU2 Deer Off Repellent has become a hit on E-commerce platforms due to its ability to deter deer and squirrels effectively.

A user praised the product for its successful protection of their plants and flowers from deer and rabbits, even saving their Hostas. They acknowledged the scent was unpleasant but noted it quickly fades. Despite this, they considered it a minor issue compared to the product’s effectiveness.

Another user voiced similar sentiments but cautioned about the sprayer’s subpar performance. They added that it’s not advisable for vegetable gardens and could potentially fade flower petals if sprayed directly.

Contrarily, a customer disputed its effectiveness against squirrels but praised its ease of application and three-month longevity.

They asserted that it’s the only product that effectively repels deer and is well worth the investment.

Instructions to Use

1. Shake the container well before using it.
2. Test the product on a small part of the plant to ensure it doesn’t cause damage before applying it on a larger scale.
3. To dispense the product, turn the nozzle to spray or stream mode and pump the trigger until it starts to dispense.
4. Apply thoroughly to leaves, stems, flowers, and branches from all angles until they’re fully coated.
5. After each use, clean the sprayer to prevent it from clogging.
6. Begin treating susceptible plants at the start of each damage season. Reapply every 2–3 months, or as new growth appears and if the previous treatment’s effects seem to be diminishing.
7. Reapply the product after heavy rainfall.
8. Don’t contaminate water, food, or feed during storage or disposal.
9. Store the pesticide in its original container, in a cool, dry place, away from children and pets.
10. Keep the product protected from heat and freezing. The ideal storage temperature is between 40°F and 90°F.
11. Ensure the container is tightly sealed to prevent spillage and evaporation. If it spills, dilute it with water and flush it away.
12. Once the container is empty, don’t refill or reuse it. Dispose of it in the trash or recycle it, if possible.
13. Never pour any leftover product down any indoor or outdoor drain.
14. When disposing of equipment wash water or leftover product, avoid contaminating any water source.

Get the Havahart Deer Off (Spray) on Walmart or Home Depot or Lowe's or pcsoutdoors.com or overstock.com or woodstreampartnerportal.com

4. Bobbex-R Animal Repellent (Spray)

Bobbex R animal repellent is a natural ready-to-use spray that can control a wide variety of rodents including rodents, chipmunks, mice, rats, rabbits, voles, groundhogs, deer, elk, and mice.

It is manufactured by a United States-based company known as Bobbex Inc which specializes in making various garden care and rodent repellent products. Their major product categories include Deer Repellent, Rabbit or Animal Repellent, Goose Repellent, Rose Protection, and other similar commercial products.

It comes with a pump sprayer and can help in keeping landscapes, ornamental plants, and vegetable gardens from getting destroyed by the commonly found rodents.

Bobbex-R Repellent is a blend of natural, recycled, safe ingredients that include active proteins which repel rodents through smell and taste aversion.

This natural repellent spray can be used on low-lying vegetation, flower beds, gardens, and even underground bulbs. Also, it can be sprayed at the beginning of burrows and holes to prevent rodents from re-entering the area.

It is safe for use around plants, animals, and children. It does not contain any poisonous substances.

Bobbex-R rodent repellent spray is available as both a concentrate and ready-to-use spray. It is very easy and convenient to use. A 48 oz. ready-to-use spray can cover an area of up to 1,500 square feet.

It can be applied directly to plant bulbs prior to planting them; by simply pouring it into a small container and dipping the bulbs of the plant into the spray—this can help plants for protection from underground herbivore damage.

It is water-insoluble and does not get washed away easily. It can withstand several heavy rains and does not need to be applied very often.

However, this spray gives off an odor that fades away within 24 hours for humans but for squirrels rabbits, and other rodents it stays effective for weeks.

Customer Reviews

Bobbex-R Animal Repellent has gained popularity on E-Commerce sites due to its effectiveness against squirrels.

Users find it effective, though not entirely odorless or efficient in all areas. Some complaints revolve around pre-opened bottles and missing mixing instructions.

However, others appreciate its natural components and noticeable impact on garden safety, despite the need for regular application.

Despite the drawbacks, customers perceive the product as delivering good value for its price.

Instructions to Use

1. Start by shaking the Bobbex-R Animal Repellent well.
2. When the temperature is between 35°F and 85°F, spray the product directly onto dry plants, flower beds, and decorative gardens, as well as into burrow and tunnel entrances to prevent pests from returning.
3. Make sure to evenly coat all plant surfaces, both front and back.
4. Allow the treated area to dry for at least 6 hours before watering or before any rain is expected.

To protect bulbs:

• Prior to planting, remove any loose or dried plant tissue from the bulbs.
• Soak the bulbs in undiluted concentrate for 3-5 minutes.
• After soaking, remove the bulbs and let them air dry completely before planting.

Storage Instructions:

• Keep the product in a cool, dry place.
• Avoid freezing.

Get the Bobbex-R Animal Repellent (Spray) on Amazon or Walmart or Home Depot or DIYPestControl or arbico-organics.com

5. eHouse Repellent (Electronic Ultrasonic)

Tired of stretching your arms for spraying? If you prefer non-toxic, chemical-free against animals and pests, this device is perfect. It is effective to repel animals and insects in your lawn, yard, and garden as well as in your home.

The effectiveness is not only limited in houses but also in apartments, offices, garages, attics, basements, and warehouses also often used in restaurants, hospitals, shopping pavilions, and stores.

Ultrasonic pest repellent is an electronic & ultrasound, indoor plug-in repellent that repels squirrels, rodents, mice, and bats, kill spiders, roaches, fleas, ticks, flies, wasps, ants, crickets, bed bugs, silkworms, mosquitoes, bees, and other small pests. The device has a lifelong guarantee, so you won’t need to buy a new one for a really long time. You can save lots of money and time!

Animals pestering your surrounding will leave. It has a dual effect, a repellent, and a night light that can protect your house up to 1600 sq. ft. (100-150 sq.m). Can be used both outdoors and indoors.

Customer Reviews

The Electronic Ultrasonic eHouse Repellent is making waves in online stores due to its effectiveness against squirrels and rodents.

One user shared, “Initially, I doubted this product, especially after reading varied reviews. Despite my reservations, I chose to give it a try because of a severe mice problem in my home. To my surprise, this device showed a remarkable difference. I saw no more mice droppings, which indicates the successful deterrence of mice. I highly recommend this product to anyone facing a similar issue.”

Another customer, however, expressed mixed feelings, saying, “At first, the eHouse BH-3 Ultrasonic Pest Repeller startled the rats in my basement, but as time passed, they seemed to acclimate to it, and the problem resumed. It didn’t meet my long-term expectations, although it did manage other pests effectively.”

A third user voiced their dissatisfaction, stating, “I purchased this product hoping to solve my rodent issue, but sadly, I didn’t see much difference. The device was simple to install, and the ultrasonic noise wasn’t a nuisance, but the rats seemed to ignore it. This product might work better for others, but it didn’t provide the solution I sought.”

Instructions to Use

1. Remove the unit from the packaging.
2. Find a central location in the area you want to protect.
3. Plug the unit into an outlet.
4. Turn on the unit.
5. The unit will start emitting ultrasonic sound waves that will deter pests.

Get the eHouse Repellent (Electronic Ultrasonic) on Amazon or Walmart

6. Victor M793 (Ultrasonic Repeller)

This victor heavy duty sonic rodent repeller is manufactured by Victor that is owned by the Woodstream Corporation i.e. a reputable name in manufacturing efficient pest and rodent control products.

This rodent repeller works on a wide range of rodents and pests including squirrels.

The Victor Ultrasonic Pest Chaser Pro is designed to effectively repel rodents from protected areas using high frequency sound waves.

A good feature about this product is that it uses varying intensity and frequencies of ultrasonic sound waves that prevents rodents from getting used to this rodent repellers.

Moreover, the device has to be plugged in and comes with a 6-foot cord. It also uses a red LED light that tells you the unit is working properly.

Customer Reviews

The Victor M793 Ultra Sonic Pest Chaser Rodent Repellent, recognized for its efficacy in eliminating rodents and squirrels, enjoys widespread popularity in e-commerce stores.

One user noted the device’s straightforward use, stating, “Simply plug it in, turn it on, and the repellent begins releasing a high-frequency sound designed to repulse rodents without disturbing humans or pets. The LED light confirms its operation.”

Reviews vary, with the device proving effective for some users but not all. The repellent aims to deter rodents with its sound rather than physically repelling them, suggesting that supplemental methods might be required in some cases.

Another user acknowledged the product as an excellent alternative to conventional methods like traps and chemicals, praising its non-irritating sound production and easy installation.

Despite its effectiveness, the user suggested it might fall short of significant infestations and recommended its use as a preventative measure.

Overall, the Victor M793 Ultrasonic Repellent holds a solid reputation.

Instructions to Use

1. Identify an open space, ideally a corner, within a room where rodents are frequently spotted. This will be the optimal location for the unit.
2. Insert the unit into the lower socket of a 110V-AC outlet. The unit’s red LED light will light up, confirming that it’s working correctly.
3. Remove any objects around the unit. Keep in mind that the ultrasound emitted cannot penetrate objects; a clear path is necessary for optimal performance.
4. Let the repellent work independently. It is designed to consistently deter squirrels without requiring further actions.

Get the Victor M793 (Ultrasonic Repeller) on Amazon or Amazon or Walmart or Home Depot or tractorsupply.com or gemplers.com or hardwarestore.com or zoro.com or menards.com or grangecoop.com

7. Ortho Animal B (Granules)

These are among the best rodent-repellent granules manufactured by the US-based brand known as Ortho i.e. owned by the Scotts Company. They have been manufacturing different products aimed at providing insect-free yards and gardens for a long time.

These Ortho animal repellent granules work well at keeping small rodents such as squirrels, rabbits, chipmunks, and groundhogs—who like to chew on vegetation in your garden.

The active ingredients used in these bug-repellent granules are putrescent whole egg solid, rosemary oil, peppermint oil and cinnamon oil—the unique combination of the smell and taste of these natural ingredients is not liked by the rodents and it helps in keeping them away. However, these granules do not give out a strong unpleasant scent for humans.

These 2 lbs granules pack can cover approximately 1,440 square feet of area and are extremely easy to use.

Customer Reviews

The Ortho 489910 Animal B Gon, a 2-pound all-purpose animal repellent, has gained popularity on E-commerce platforms for its potential to deter rodents and squirrels.

One user describes it as a granular formula designed to repel small herbivores such as squirrels, groundhogs, and rabbits.

Despite its popularity, the product’s effectiveness varies among users. Some users report success, while others deem it ineffective.

Notably, the product may require reapplication after rain or watering and could emit an unpleasant smell.

A different user criticized the product’s ineffectiveness in preventing animals from intruding on yards or gardens, with some even observing an attraction to the product from the animals.

Additionally, this user highlighted that the product might not provide good value due to its relatively high cost for the provided quantity.

The consensus suggests that while this product might be worth a try, it does not guarantee success.

Instructions to Use

1. Identify the base of the plants that need protection from animals.
2. Distribute the granules evenly around this area.
3. Ensure to apply the granules, especially around edible plants, as they are safer than spray-based products.
4. To maintain effectiveness, reapply the granules approximately every 30 days or as required.

Get the Ortho Animal B (Granules) on Walmart or Lowe's

Types of Squirrel Repellents

There are three primary kinds of squirrel repellents: squirrel sprays, ultrasonic squirrel repellents, and squirrel repellent granules. All these products aim to keep squirrels away from your home.

• Squirrel spray: Squirrel sprays leverage strong odors to deter squirrels from your property. The smells are generally unpleasant to the squirrels but are typically harmless to humans and pets.

• Ultrasonic repellents: Ultrasonic repellents emit high-frequency sounds inaudible to humans but disturbing to squirrels. They work by creating an uncomfortable environment, discouraging squirrels from settling in the area.

• Squirrel Repellent Granules: These granules function by taste aversion. Sprinkled around your property, their bitter taste discourages squirrels from chewing or eating plants and other objects they come into contact with.

• Scarecrows: Commercial scarecrows, like the Hoont Garden Scarecrow Eagle, use visual and audio signals to frighten squirrels away. They emit flashing lights and loud sounds when a squirrel comes near, keeping your property squirrel-free.

Conclusion

Managing squirrels can be a daunting task, but a variety of commercial repellents offer safe, easy solutions.

These include sprays, granules, and ultrasonic devices that deter squirrels through unpleasant taste, smell, or intolerable ultrasonic waves.

Natural deterrents such as white peppers and vinegar offer an alternative solution.

The best approach depends on your specific squirrel problem, but rotating different types of repellents can prevent squirrels from getting accustomed, ensuring ongoing effectiveness.

Frequently Asked Questions