Methods for Creating Raccoon Repellent at Home

Home Improvement

Homemade raccoon repellents can be used to keep raccoons away from your home. Additionally, it is important to make sure that any openings in your house where raccoons may be entering from are securely closed. Photography courtesy of Tambako the Jaguar / Getty Images

There are numerous homemade raccoon repellents that can be effective in keeping raccoons out of your yard. However, prior to using them, it is important to seal any openings in your house where raccoons may be entering, such as vents, windows, loose siding, and soffits. To prevent raccoons from accessing a vegetable garden or ornamental pond, it is recommended to construct a wire mesh fence or cover [source: Fischer].

• Ammonia: Place a bowl of ammonia in your fireplace to prevent raccoons from entering the chimney. (Once the raccoons have left, install a cap on the chimney.) Tie rags into balls and soak them in ammonia, then place them wherever the raccoons are living. Re-soak the balls as needed.
• Spices: Sprinkle strong spices throughout your yard. Cinnamon, ground black pepper, and ground dried hot pepper are all viable options. These fragrances irritate raccoons’ sense of smell, encouraging them to relocate to a different location [source: Fischer].
• Peppers: Create a raccoon-repellent spray by boiling two quarts (about two liters) of water with a tablespoon of cayenne pepper, several hot peppers, and an onion for 20 minutes. Strain the liquid and spray it around your house, yard, plants, and trash cans. This spray must be reapplied every two to three days and after rainfall [source: Fischer].
• Sprinklers and lights: Use motion-activated sprinklers or lights to deter raccoons [source: OWREN].
• Sound: Attempt to repel raccoons with loud music, as long as it does not disturb your neighbors.

FAQ

1. What are some natural raccoon repellants?

There are several natural raccoon repellants that you can use, including cayenne pepper, ammonia, vinegar, and garlic. These types of repellants work by creating a strong smell that raccoons find aversive. They also make the area around your home less attractive to raccoons, which may help to deter them from entering your yard or garden.

2. How do you make a homemade raccoon repellant with cayenne pepper?

To make a homemade raccoon repellant with cayenne pepper, mix one tablespoon of cayenne pepper with one quart of water. You can then spray this mixture around the perimeter of your garden or in areas where you have seen raccoon activity. Be sure to wear gloves and avoid touching your eyes or face when using this repellant.

3. Can you use mothballs to repel raccoons?

No, mothballs are not a safe or effective raccoon repellant. Mothballs contain chemicals that can be harmful to both humans and animals, and they do not provide a strong enough odor to deter raccoons from entering your yard or garden.

4. How do you make a homemade raccoon repellant with ammonia?

To make a homemade raccoon repellant with ammonia, mix one cup of ammonia with one gallon of water. You can then pour this mixture around the perimeter of your garden or in areas where you have seen raccoon activity. Be sure to wear gloves and avoid touching your eyes or face when using this repellant.

5. How do you repel raccoons from your garbage cans?

You can repel raccoons from your garbage cans by using a tight-fitting lid and securing it with bungee cords or other fasteners. You can also place heavy rocks or bricks on top of the lid to make it harder for raccoons to open. Additionally, you can spray the garbage can with a raccoon repellant spray to make it less attractive to raccoons.

6. Can you use predator urine to repel raccoons?

Yes, you can use predator urine to repel raccoons. Predator urine, such as coyote or fox urine, can be purchased online or at outdoor supply stores. You can then spray the urine around the perimeter of your garden or in areas where you have seen raccoon activity. This will create the illusion that there is a predator in the area, which may deter raccoons from entering.

7. How do you make a homemade raccoon repellant with vinegar?

To make a homemade raccoon repellant with vinegar, mix one part vinegar with two parts water. You can then spray this mixture around the perimeter of your garden or in areas where you have seen raccoon activity. Be sure to wear gloves and avoid touching your eyes or face when using this repellant.

8. Can you use motion-activated sprinklers to repel raccoons?

Yes, motion-activated sprinklers can be an effective way to repel raccoons. When a raccoon enters the area, the sprinkler will activate and spray water, scaring the raccoon away. These sprinklers can be purchased online or at outdoor supply stores.

9. How do you prevent raccoons from entering your attic?

To prevent raccoons from entering your attic, you should seal all entry points, such as holes or gaps in the roof or walls. You can also install wire mesh over vents and chimney openings to prevent raccoons from entering. Additionally, you can use a raccoon repellant spray around the perimeter of your home to make it less attractive to raccoons.

10. Can you use ultrasonic devices to repel raccoons?

Yes, ultrasonic devices can be used to repel raccoons. These devices emit a high-pitched sound that is unpleasant to raccoons, causing them to leave the area. These devices can be purchased online or at outdoor supply stores.

11. How do you make a homemade raccoon repellant with garlic?

To make a homemade raccoon repellant with garlic, crush several cloves of garlic and mix them with water. You can then spray this mixture around the perimeter of your garden or in areas where you have seen raccoon activity. Be sure to wear gloves and avoid touching your eyes or face when using this repellant.