Make Your Own Bug Repellent Spray

Imagine enjoying a warm summer evening on your patio, the sun setting in a picturesque blaze of colors, only to have the moment ruined by an incessant swarm of pesky mosquitoes.

We’ve all been there!

But what if I told you that you could reclaim those serene moments and keep bugs at bay with something crafted by your own hands?

Well it’s possible to Make Your Own Bug Repellent Spray.

Yes, it’s time to ditch the chemical-laden store-bought sprays and embrace the natural way—by making your own bug repellent spray.

Creating your personalized bug repellent isn’t just about mixing ingredients; it’s an empowering journey into nature’s bounty.

Armed with essential oils and simple household items, you’re not only protecting yourself from annoying insects but also taking control over what goes on your skin.

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or someone looking for eco-friendly solutions, this guide is designed to help you craft effective, delightful-smelling bug repellents that work wonders.

So roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into the wonderful world of homemade insect repellents!

Homemade bug spray

With summer approaching, bugs are becoming more prevalent and annoying. Instead of relying on store-bought bug sprays that are full of chemical ingredients, why not make your own homemade bug repellent spray?

Not only is it more natural and better for the environment, but it can also be customized to suit your preferences.

There are many different essential oils that are known to repel bugs such as mosquitoes, flies, and ticks.

Some popular choices include citronella, lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, and tea tree oil.

These oils not only have bug-repellent properties but also have pleasant scents that can make your homemade bug spray more enjoyable to use.

To make your own bug repellent spray, start by choosing a base liquid such as witch hazel or apple cider vinegar.

Mix this with distilled water and add a few drops of your chosen essential oil.

Shake well before each use and spray onto exposed skin or clothing to keep bugs at bay.

Another option is to create a bug repellent lotion by mixing shea butter or coconut oil with essential oils and applying it directly to the skin.

This not only repels bugs but also moisturizes the skin, making it soft and smooth.

Remember, the key to effective bug repellent is to reapply regularly, especially if you’re sweating or swimming.

Experiment with different essential oils and combinations to find what works best for you.

So why not make your own bug repellent spray this summer and enjoy the outdoors without worrying about pesky bugs ruining your fun?

It’s easy, natural, and customizable—making it the perfect solution for keeping bugs at bay while enjoying the great outdoors.

Natural ingredients

There are many natural ingredients that can be used to create an effective bug repellent spray.

These ingredients not only work well to keep bugs at bay, but they also have the added benefit of being safe for both people and the environment.

One popular ingredient for bug repellent sprays is essential oils.

Some of the most effective essential oils for repelling bugs include citronella, eucalypt us, lavender, peppermint, and tea tree oil.

These oils have natural insect-repelling properties and can be mixed with a base liquid like witch hazel or apple cider vinegar to create a homemade bug spray.

Another natural ingredient that can be used in bug repellent sprays is neem oil.

Neem oil is derived from the seeds of the neem tree and has been used for centuries as a natural insect repellent. It works by disrupting the insects’ ability to feed and reproduce, making it an effective and eco-friendly option for keeping bugs away.

Other natural ingredients that can be added to bug repellent sprays include lemon eucalyptus oil, soybean oil, and catnip oil.

These ingredients have been shown to be just as effective as chemical-based bug spr sprays, without the harmful side effects.

By using natural ingredients in your bug repellent spray, you can feel confident knowing that you are not only protecting yourself and your loved ones from pesky bugs, but also from potentially harmful chemicals.

Plus, creating your own bug repellent spray allows you to customize it to suit your preferences and needs.

Spray bottle

One of the easiest ways to create your own bug repellent spray is by using a spray bottle.

A spray bottle allows you to easily apply the repellent to your skin or clothing, making it a convenient option for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, or gardening.

To make your own bug repellent spray, you will need a few key ingredients.

One common ingredient is essential oils, which are known for their bug-repellent properties. Some popular options include citronella, lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, and tea tree oil. You will also need a base liquid such as witch hazel or apple cider vinegar, as well as distilled water.

Simply mix a few drops of your chosen essential oil with the base liquid and water in the spray bottle. Shake well before each use to ensure the ingredients are well mixed. Spray onto exposed skin or clothing before heading outdoors to keep bugs away.

If you prefer a lotion instead of a spray, you can mix shea butter or coconut oil with essential oils to create a bug repellent lotion. This option not only repels bugs but also moisturizes the skin, leaving it soft and smooth.

Glass spray bottles

Glass spray bottles are a great option for storing and dispensing your homemade bug repellent spray. Not only are they eco-friendly and reusable, but they also help preserve the integrity of the essential oils used in the spray.

When making your own bug repellent spray, it’s important to choose a high-quality glass spray bottle that is resistant to corrosion and won’t react with the essential oils.

Look for bottles made from amber or cobalt blue glass, as these colors help protect the oils from light exposure, which can degrade their effectiveness.

To create your bug repellent spray in a glass bottle, simply follow the same steps as you would with a plastic spray bottle.

Mix your chosen essential oils with a base liquid and distilled water, then pour the mixture into the glass spray bottle.

Shake well before each use to ensure the ingredients are well combined.

When using glass spray bottles, it’s important to handle them with care to avoid breakage.

Store them in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to preserve the effectiveness of the essential oils.

Additionally, be sure to label your bottle with the ingredients used and the date it was made so you can keep track of its freshness.

Mosquito repellent

Mosquitoes can be a nuisance, especially during the warm summer months when they are most active.

Commercial bug repellents can contain harsh chemicals that may not be safe for you or your family. Instead, try making your own natural mosquito repellent spray using essential oils.

One effective essential oil for repelling mosquitoes is citronella oil.

This oil has a strong scent that mosquitoes find unpleasant, making it an effective natural repellent. To make a mosquito repellent spray, mix citronella oil with witch hazel or apple cider vinegar and distilled water in a spray bottle.

Shake well before each use and apply to exposed skin before going outdoors.

Other essential oils that can help repel mosquitoes include lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil.

Experiment with different combinations of oils to find the scent that works best for you. You can also add a few drops of lemon or lemongrass essential oil for an extra boost of bug-repelling power.

In addition to using essential oils, wearing light-colored clothing, avoiding standing water, and using mosquito nets or screens can help reduce your exposure to mosquitoes.

Remember to reapply your homemade bug repellent spray every few hours, especially if you are sweating or swimming, to ensure continued protection.

Making your own bug repellent spray is a safe and effective way to keep bugs at bay while enjoying the great outdoors.

Plus, it’s customizable to your preferences and free from harmful chemicals.

So next time you head outside, don’t forget your homemade bug repellent spray for a natural way to stay bite-free! Remember, it’s always important to do a patch test before using any new product on your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies.

If you experience any irritation or discomfort, discontinue use immediately.

By making your own bug repellent spray, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from pesky bugs without exposing them to harmful chemicals.

Here’s what you need:

750ml of vodka (1 average-sized bottle)
1 ounce dried catnip
a fine strainer and cheesecloth or a french press coffee maker
catnip oil
lavendar oil
quart-sized mason jar with lid
several small spray bottles
1 week’s time

Place the dried catnip into your mason jar and pour vodka straight in. Fasten your lid and shake the jar to distribute the herb through the vodka. The alcohol pulls out many healing constituents out of the dried herb and acts as a preservative for your solution. Let this mixture sit in a cool, dry place for 1 week.

After your herbs have steeped for a week, it’s time to strain off your tincture. I used a french press coffee maker, but you can use a fine strainer and cheesecloth too. Squeeze as much of the liquid out as possible and discard your herbs.

Add 30 drops of catnip  oil and 20 drops of lavender oil to your tincture. Fasten lid and gently shake to mix.

Pour your bug repellent into your spray bottles and enjoy!

If you aren’t able to find catnip oil or are just curious which other oils will repel insects, here are a few others to try:

• lemon eucalyptus
• citronella
• neem
• rose geranium
• lemongrass
• cedar
• pine

Are you dealing with biting insects this summer? How do you keep the bugs away? Share with us in the comments your tips and tricks!