When bugs start buzzing, reaching for the closest bug spray is tempting. However, suppose you’d like to avoid all the chemicals, especially around your family. In that case, you can easily stir up a natural bug repellent using ingredients you probably have at home. Whether you prefer essential oils or choose to use pantry staples, there are plenty of simple DIY options to keep those annoying bugs away. Here are a few trusty bug repellents to try out!
Essential Oil Bug Repellents
Essential oils are loaded with naturally occurring compounds that will naturally fend off insects. Many of them smell wonderful and have soothing benefits for the skin. Here’s a quick list of favored essential oils and what they can repel:
- Basil: Mosquitoes and ants.
- Cinnamon: Ants and mosquitoes.
- Citronella: Mosquitoes, gnats, “no-see-ums”.
- Garlic Oil: Mosquitoes (strong odor, best used outside)
- Geranium: Ticks, lice, gnats.
- Lavender: Mosquitoes, moths, fleas; also calms irritated skin.
- Lemon Eucalyptus: Mosquitoes, ticks, lice.
- Lemongrass: Mosquitoes and gnats.
- Peppermint: Ants, flies, mosquitoes.
DIY Essential Oil Insect Spray
What You’ll Need:
- 20–30 drops of your choice of essential oils.
- 1/2 cup of witch hazel or distilled water.
- Optional: 1–2 tbsp of a carrier oil ( jojoba oil and olive oil work best)
- A clean spray bottle.
Directions:
- Blend essential oils and carrier oils in a spray bottle.
- Shake well before each use.
- Spray onto your skin, clothing, or outdoor gear.
- Remember to do a patch test on your skin and clothing first.
This makes the perfect amount of spray you can take on the go. Many more skin-friendly bug repellent recipes include essential oils like this one. Try different oils and combinations to find what works best for you.
Essential Oil Alternatives
Not a fan of using oils? No worries! You can still create effective bug repellents using items from your pantry. Here are some simple repellents you can make at home.
A Gentle Vanilla and Water Spray:
Mix equal parts pure vanilla extract and distilled water in a spray bottle. Shake well and lightly mist on your skin or clothes for a satisfying scent—great for quick outings. May require some reapplication. Vanilla extract can mask body odors that mosquitoes use to find their prey.
Vanilla, Mint, and Vinegar “Bug-Away” Spray:
Combine 2 cups of white vinegar with 1/2 cup of distilled water and add a few fresh mint leaves. Optional: a splash of vanilla extract. Let the mint steep for a few hours, shake it up, then spray on bug-prone surfaces or clothing to keep flies, ants, mosquitoes, and those creepy spiders away!
Herbal Bug Spray with Zing:
Soak dried herbs like peppermint, spearmint, citronella, or lemongrass in alcohol or hot water for several days. Strain the mixture and transfer it into a spray bottle, then use it on your clothing, around your window trim and doorways, or even your patio furniture.
Remember that there are many natural ways to repel most pests. You can find many simple DIY repellents, like a fast and easy two-ingredient Ant repellent. This is a great option when you have limited oils or herbs for your natural bug deterrent.
Important Tips to Remember
When using essential oils, safety is crucial, especially for pregnant women and young children. Always start with small oils, as you can always add more. Perform a patch test on your skin to check for allergic reactions before overall use. Natural bug repellents may fade quickly, so remember to reapply them throughout the day, especially during hikes or gardening.
Be cautious of staining, as oils can mark clothing; test small areas first. If you have pets, consult a veterinarian before applying any essential oils or natural repellents in their environment, as some can be harmful in large amounts. Label and store your mixtures in cool, dark places, ideally in dark bottles, for better shelf life. Protect your skin from sunlight, as oils combined with UV exposure can irritate it. Lastly, label and store your mixtures in cool, dark places, ideally in dark bottles, for better shelf life.
Conclusion
With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a safe and effective natural bug repellent that works well and smells nice. Whether you’re enjoying time on the patio, heading to the park, or want to keep your kitchen pest-free, these natural solutions can easily handle the job.
