There is nothing worse than enjoying your favorite outdoor activities in summer until a series of mosquito bites barge in and ruin the moment. And it doesn’t end there. Mosquitoes also carry diseases that can affect us. If you’re in search of DIY mosquito deterrents that don’t require the use of chemicals, then this is the place for you. By the end of this article, you will know 5 DIY mosquito repellent recipes you can use with natural ingredients intended for your protection and a touch of homemade fun.
Why Choose Natural Mosquito Repellents?
Natural mosquito repellents are gaining popularity for several reasons:
- Safety: Because they are plant-based, natural repellents generally exclude many of the harsh chemicals that are commonly used in manufactured products, making them safe for children and pets.
- Environmental Impact: Because everything that is used is all-natural you minimise your carbon footprint and ensure there is little damage to the environment.
- Cheap: You’ll usually pay less for DIY repellents than store-bought ones, made from products you might otherwise use anyway.
Essential Oils as Natural Mosquito Repellents
Perhaps the most common repellents, essential oils are appreciated for their strong aromas, which mosquitoes avoid. These are some of the more effective essential oils for mosquitoes:
- Citronella oil: Made from lemongrass and said to be one of the best all-natural mosquito repellents. Its strong citrusy smell masks lots of other attractants in the air and keeps bugs away.
- Eucalyptus Oil: The masculine scent of eucalyptus oil keeps mosquitoes away and it has antimicrobial properties and can be used as an additional benefit for your health.
- Lavender Oil: Besides its relaxing smell, lavender oil is a natural mosquito repellent. It also comes in handy when mosquitoes do get you: it’s known to soothe the skin.
- Tea Tree Oil: This natural oil contains antifungal and antibacterial properties and also soothes skin irritations. Use it to repel mosquitoes.
- Peppermint Oil: As well as masking the smell that attracts mosquitoes, peppermint oil smells nice and, if the bites are still itchy, it gives a cooling sensation to irritated skin.
DIY Mosquito Repellent Recipes
1. Citronella and Eucalyptus Spray
Ingredients:
- 10 drops of citronella oil
- 10 drops of eucalyptus oil
- 2 tablespoons of witch hazel
- 2 tablespoons of distilled water
- A small spray bottle
Instructions:
- Add the citronella oil and eucalyptus oil to the spray bottle.
- Pour in the witch hazel and distilled water.
- Shake well before each use.
- Spray the mixture around your outdoor area or directly on your skin (be careful of sensitive areas).
2. Lavender and Tea Tree Oil Body Lotion
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of unscented lotion
- 5 drops of lavender oil
- 5 drops of tea tree oil
Instructions:
- Mix the lotion with the essential oils in a small bowl.
- Transfer the mixture to a clean, airtight container.
- Apply to exposed skin to repel mosquitoes and soothe any bites.
3. Peppermint and Citronella Room Spray
Ingredients:
- 10 drops of peppermint oil
- 10 drops of citronella oil
- 1 tablespoon of vodka or rubbing alcohol
- 2 tablespoons of distilled water
- A spray bottle
Instructions:
- Combine the peppermint oil, citronella oil, and vodka in the spray bottle.
- Add the distilled water and shake well.
- Spray around your home, especially near windows and doors, to keep mosquitoes out.
4. Homemade Mosquito-Repellent Candle
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of soy wax or beeswax
- 20 drops of citronella oil
- 10 drops of eucalyptus oil
- A candle mold or jar
- A wick
Instructions:
- Melt the wax in a double boiler.
- Once melted, remove from heat and stir in the essential oils.
- Secure the wick in the mold or jar and pour in the wax mixture.
- Allow the candle to cool and harden before using.
Additional Natural Repellent Tips
1. Plant Mosquito-Repellent Herbs
Many plants repel mosquitoes; some that you can plant outside in your garden or indoors in your home are:
- Lemon Balm: The citrusy scent repels mosquitoes.
- Marigolds: Their strong smell keeps many insects away.
- Catnip: This herb contains a compound that is highly effective against mosquitoes.
2. Use Mosquito-Repellent Plants Indoors
If you don’t have a garden, you can still have these repellent plants indoors. Small pots of basil, lavender, or mint on shelves near windows would do the trick.
3. Maintain a Clean Environment
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Every week or two, dump out and scrub birdbaths, flower pots, and other water-storing containers around your house.
Safety Considerations
While natural repellents are generally safe, it’s important to follow these guidelines:
- Patch test: Trying any new repellent for the first time? Do a patch test before covering your skin in it.
- OFF Sensitive Areas: Please avoid applying oils around the eyes, mouth, or open wounds.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be thought of as medical advice; please speak with your healthcare professional before using essential oils if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
And while you could just douse yourself in chemicals, there are natural mosquito repellents that are safe for both you and the planet. With a few simple ingredients and endlessly adaptable recipes, you can get your mosquito-repellent groove on, protect yourself from nasty bites, smell beautiful, and help save the planet. Voilà! Happy outdoor summers (and days, evenings, and nights, too) minus the bugs.
