This homemade insect repellent is a wonderful choice for anyone concerned about their skins health. 
Insect control: Horticultural oils [Fact sheet]. wholefully Thank You, 12 Gnat Repellent Essential Oils: Peppermint Oil, DIY Recipe The Buginator, [] Here is a great collection of 14 homemade insect repellent recipes. Required fields are marked *. Dilute Essential Oils: Always dilute essential oils before use. (2018). Once the base is in, add the oils and shake well for immediate use! Add vanilla extract if using. Easy Essentials Homemade Insect Repellent Rub On, 5. Essential oils are known to be an effective insect repellent. This means that sun exposure may cause severe burns and even skin cancer. Spray the bug repellent on the skin, rubbing on the skin if needed. Mix this water with witch hazel and pour it in a spray bottle. Thanks so much for all your help! Small bugs usually hate citrus, so citrus oil sprays are common in homemade repellents. Peppermint and Vanilla Tincture Spray On, How to Stay Safe Using Homemade Insect Repellents (10 Tips), Say Yes to Nature with Homemade Insect Repellents, Campers Guide to Essential Oil Bug Repellent, 7 Best Electronic Bug Repellents (For Camping and Outdoor Living), Where do Bugs Go in the Winter? Also, I really love all the remedies that you have on your site! bug spray recipe While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires most skin-applied insect repellants to be registered for both human safety and effectiveness, the agency has also listed several natural ingredients as minimum risk pesticides. Have young children? Apple cider vinegar helps restore the proper pH levels to your skin, therefore smoothing the skin, reducing oiliness and decreasing the appearance of fine lines. yankeekitchenninja are clickable links to these studies. bug spray natural recipe Dont use fresh gel from the plant as it will spoil quickly. spray gardentherapy 
Quinine in Tonic Water: What Is It and Is It Safe? Use citronella candles when youre outdoors for additional protection. Cedar also has insect repellent properties. Is there anything I can use in its place? It may be time to try. Another option is aloe vera gel. After using this on them, they love it and I fell safe for my kids using them. Add a couple tablespoons of the oil into your witch hazel spray and try it out. Which one of the essential oils that you listed in the recipe do you recommend for use on children <4yrs? Do you have to use a glass spray bottle or will plastic work also? Our family spends a lot of time outdoors during the summer. Bharadwaj A, et al. Patel RV, et al. I checked pharmacy and everywhere I can think of.
About how many drops are in a bottle or mL of EO? When using witch hazel, make sure it contains a preservative on the ingredient list (most do). There are several brand options out there now. 4 Options / 7 Types, How to Sanitize RV Fresh Water Tank: 8 Simple Steps (Tips & Supplies), How to Quiet a Generator: 9 Easy Tips for RVers & Campers, How to Dump RV Waste at Home: 9 Things to Know (3 Methods), How to Get Smoke Smell Out of Clothes: 9 Camper Tips, 2 tablespoons of either witch hazel or vodka, or 1 tablespoon of each, 2 tablespoons of either almond oil, jojoba oil, neem oil, avocado oil, or a combination, teaspoon vodka if using only witch hazel, 55 drops of lemon eucalyptus essential oil, 40 drops of eucalyptus, lemongrass, tea tree, citronella, rosemary, or a combination, 20 drops of lemon eucalyptus essential oil, 2 Tbs. 
[], Do Gnats Bite Humans? Even so, you will most likely have leftover items to make another couple of batches! Use the recommendation on the Plant Therapy bottle for dilution and. It would be a real bummer to find out you are allergic the day of your adventure! However, spraying this kind of homemade insect repellent on the clothing of adults is widely accepted. In under 5 minutes, youll have an easy and affordable DIY bug spray. This is the beauty of using a blend specifically created for keeping bugs away, like Plant Therapys kid-safe Shield Me Blend or Nature Shield Blend. Natural tick repellents and pesticides. Non-essential oil sprays and rubs are generally accepted as safe barring any allergy. Mosquitoes are prevalent almost everywhere in the world, and they carry unpleasant diseases. geranium This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by our trained editorial staff. It wont be quite as effective as some other options, but if you cant stand the smell of other oils, its certainly worth a try as an alternative. Does This Skin Care Routine Benefit Skin? Combine all ingredients, shake, and apply! There are a few general common sense suggestions to follow before going gung-ho on your new insect spray. All should be stored in dark-colored bottles and stored in a cool dark place. What is the shelf life on this spray? 
This natural solution is also quick and inexpensive! What oils do you recommend for these issues? These options arent as powerful or long-lasting as picaridin or DEET (common chemicals used in commercial repellents), but they can be a great alternative if you want to go all natural. Repellent activity of Apiaceae plant essential oils and their constituents against adult German cockroaches.
Essential oils need to be diluted before applying on the skin. Pour the witch hazel (or vodka) and essential oil blend of choice (either Sheild Me OR Nature Shield) into a 4-ounce or larger spray bottle. Plus discover the best camping gear. You are such a blessing. Store away from sunlight and use within 3 weeks. mosquito repellent apieceofrainbow Let me know how you make out and I'll update the post with what is working for you. Peppermint and castor oil are also both well-regarded as repellents. Store this homemade insect repellent in a cool place like the refrigerator. Going outside shouldnt have to be a choice between dangerous chemicals and insect-borne illness. This agent helps everything mesh and stay mixed. Many store-bought repellents cost over $5 and only last a few trips outdoors. Ive definitely seen this help! With the rising use of natural products and homemade solutions, you no longer have to.
Mix 1 part of the essential oil with 10 parts of the witch hazel or oil. Neem may work best when combined with more fragrant oils. Since this stuff is so powerful, mix equal parts of the mixture and water in the spray bottles. Here were using glycerin (or oil) and witch hazel or vodka as the dilution carrier to the skin. Larvicidal and mosquito repellent action of peppermint (Mentha piperita) oil. Which companies are the best for ordering those oils? Hi!
The glycerin and oil wont stain clothes when you gently mist your skin and clothing. But that is not always the case. Certain essential oils, like citrus oils, can be phototoxic when applied directly to the skin. 
Hey Chris, Yes, if youre going for long-term use. Learn more about them in our Campers Guide to Essential Oil Bug Repellent. I dont have any kids but I like the idea of using the kid safe blend for this recipe so when my nieces and nephew are over I may use on them as well. Finally, do you think this vanilla (http://www.mccormick.com/Spices-and-Flavors/Extracts-and-Food-Colors/Extracts/Extra-Rich-Pure-Vanilla-Extract) is ok? These 14 homemade insect repellents will get you started on a healthier summer season! He is also co-founder of Storyteller Media, a company he started with his wife, Dena. (2018). Who wants to wear long sleeves? Best Places to Camp: Not sure where to pitch your tent? When the blend is cool, strain the herbs and them away.
Do you still use this homemade bug spray? Last medically reviewed on July 29, 2019. Are children under a year OK? I would try these or email me at oils@draxe.com for some other oils that may help as well. Witch hazel has proven helpful against acne, skin sores, bruises, redness, psoriasis and eczema, oily skin, excess sweating, varicose veins, cracked skin, razor burn, sun damage and so much more. Vanilla extract can be added to any of the non-essential oils recipes for added protection. Hi I think the Ban the Bugs name has been changed to Shield Me. Even natural ingredients can be unsafe in certain situations. Plus, another study concluded that peppermint oil may be effective at keeping spiders away as well. 
If you know of a similar essential oil blend by a different brand, feel free to use that. If you dont have vegetable glycerin, oil will work: fractionated coconut oil (a liquid form of coconut oil), olive oil, or jojoba oil.
The skin soothing benefits come from both witch hazel and apple cider vinegar. Note: This is a potenthome bug repellent and is not child or pet friendly. Add the glycerin (or oil or aloe vera gel). (2017). Try it today to keep the bugs away. Wonderful, Hayden! If the spray isnt mixing well even when you shake it, you can also add a little vegetable glycerin (aka glycerol, which is a clear, odorless liquid typically made from palm, soy or coconut oil) to help the ingredients combine. Its not very common in the United States. Would like to know where to buy the cracked cell chlorella product and best source of lemongrass oil. Check out these natural way to keep pests out of your home. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Simply combine the witch hazel, apple cider vinegar and essential oils of your choice in an eight ounce glass spray bottle. 6 Best Winter Tents (Campers Guide to Cold Weather Tents), 10 Best Hiking Underwear for Men and Women (Chafe-Free Comfort). Repellency of DEET, picaridin, and three essential oils to Triatoma rubida (Hemiptera: Reduviidae: Triatominae). This article will take a closer look at some of the natural ingredients that may help keep bugs at bay, and how you can use these ingredients to make your own bug spray. The information in our articles is NOT intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. Mix equal parts water with witch hazel (a half cup of each works well). Let me know what kind of pet and I can give a bit more information :).. One study concluded that dill effectively repels cockroaches. Evaluation of active ingredients and larvicidal activity of clove and cinnamon essential oils against Anopheles gambiae (sensu lato). Only question is, do you think the kids safe blend is maybe not as effective for adults as compared to the adult blend? My 2 year old has some poriasis spots on his legs that we are working on. mosquito repellent repellant If you use aloe vera gel, make sure it contains a preservative. Hi Kristin! Thanks so much! This is NOT a sponsored post with Plant Therapy. thecountrychiccottage Use it within a few weeks, using your best judgment, and use distilled water. We live in the tropics where mozzies and sand flies are a big issue, and I have two boys aged 3.5yrs and 15mths. Get Rid of Standing Water: Check around your home for areas of standing water, like flower pots, buckets, etc. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer), Lemon eucalyptus is an effective natural oil, witch hazel (a half cup of each works well). Use This Spray Often: Essential oils are 100% natural and volatile, meaning they evaporate quickly. Whether you are into essential oils or prefer their sources, this list includes something for everyone. Get rid of standing water in gutters, birdbaths, planters, pots, and wheelbarrows. (2015). Lee HR, et al. In the evening, when youre enjoying a campfire and roasting marshmallows, add herbs to your campfire to deter bugs with their potent scent. Years ago, Plant Therapy called this blend of oils Ban the Bugs which is why the original photos in this recipe feature a bottle with this title. A blend that is specifically mixed together with individual essential oils, like citronella and catnip, to deter and repel bugs. A 2005 study suggest that thyme essential oil helps repel mosquitoes. Here are the best places to camp in the United States. And then just reduce the oil in half as well? 
I use dish detergent in water, but I wondered if there is a good essential oil mix. Yvonne. (For each drop of oil, use 10 drops of witch hazel.). Hi Kristin. diyjoy Much like lemon eucalyptus, neem oil is known to contain compounds that insects heartily dislike. Here are some combinations that work well and smell fantastic: Combine all ingredients in the spray bottle of your choice, and shake. You'll need to consider shelf life, as vodka also serves as a preservative. Do a spot test before trying any of the above. (2016). Before I move my NEW furniture in for them to nest in ugh I was told peppermint oil sprayed in and around the house will get rid of them. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. I have a 70 lb. If you prefer to use a balm instead of a spray, you can make an excellent homemade balm with a little citronella and lemon eucalyptus oil. Place witch hazel, apple cider vinegar and essential oils in an 8 ounce glass spray bottle. To make it fast and easy, use a done-for-you blend of essential oils. The picture with this article looks like it is a metal spray bottle. Shield Me Or Nature Shield Essential Oil Blend, How to Use Essential Oils Safely & Effectively, Other Natural Ways to Protect Against Bug Bites, DIY Homemade Bug Spray Mosquito Repellent (Essential Oils), Plant Therapy's Shield Me Essential Oil Blend, Homemade Shea Butter Lotion (Non Greasy Without Coconut Oil), 24 Brilliant Castile Soap Uses for the Home & Body, What is Castile Soap? (2018). Acidic lemon juice can also be used to protect areas you dont want bugs to cross. this recipe sounds wonderful.
There are many different homemade bug spray recipes online. The beta-carotene in apple cider vinegar also helps to counter future skin damage. Mosquitoes, ticks & other arthropods. are clickable links to medically peer-reviewed studies. For an easy and natural mosquito repellent for your skin, youll need the following: You can also create a homemade bug spray to use around your house or yard. All rights reserved. Keep the water and add the remaining ingredient, witch hazel or rubbing alcohol. You linked a 16oz bottle but I was wondering if a small size would work. Make sure your clothing covers your arms, legs, ankles, and feet. If you spill some wax on the floor, heres how to clean it up! Its important to keep the bugs away, but instead of using conventional recipes and showering your body in harmful chemicals, try this homemade bug spray recipe. It's also effective against. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam.
spray mosquito homemade natural bug repellent remedies diy label oil icanteachmychild health yourself finds mosquitos citronella bites sharpie write own Do you use natural skin care products and other ingredients such as Theres no shortage of different yoga styles to choose from, but heres Have you ever wondered if swimming in pools treated with chlorine is Foundation makeup has many benefits, specifically helping to smooth out the tone https://draxe.com/beauty/best-sunscreens/, https://draxe.com/health/ibs-diet-food-cures/, How to Get Rid of Jock Itch: 9 Natural Remedies, Try Coconut Oil Pulling for Healthier Teeth and Gums, How to Get Rid of Cellulite 6 Natural Treatments, How to Get Rid of Bags Under the Eyes: 13 Easy, Natural Ways. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Homemade bug spray recipe for your home or yard, extension.colostate.edu/docs/pubs/insect/05569.pdf, takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/explore-healing-practices/aromatherapy/are-essential-oils-safe, wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/yellowbook/2020/noninfectious-health-risks/mosquitoes-ticks-and-other-arthropods, gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/care/pests-and-diseases/pests/management/natural-pest-control-with-oils.html, cdc.gov/lyme/prev/natural-repellents.html, epa.gov/insect-repellents/regulation-skin-applied-repellents. Here are the best insect repellents for babies. Lightweight joggers are also a great way to protect your legs versus leaving them bare to bugs when wearing shorts. This means you must reapply for it to be effective. Wear Long-Sleeve Clothing: I know, its summer. Plus, according to the CDC, products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus are effective against mosquitoes. DOI: Lee MY.
No votes so far! 
Hey Noel, Hmmm, Im not sure about children that young. With strict editorial sourcing guidelines, we only link to academic research institutions, reputable media sites and, when research is available, medically peer-reviewed studies. The easy recipe is budget-friendly, simple to make, and includes only 3 ingredients: witch hazel, oil or glycerin, & a done-for-you blend of essential oils (no need to buy multiple essential oils). Curious what happens to all these bugs and insects in the cold weather? 
RV Living: If you prefer sleeping off the ground, why not consider an RV? Mix 10 to 20 drops of each essential oil with 2 ounces distilled water and 2 ounces of white vinegar. Why do you have to use a glass spray bottle? Ask a doctor before using if you are nursing or pregnant. If mosquitoes are a major concern, cinnamon oil may be a good option to consider. The late summer sun and hot weather is an invitation to stay up later and enjoy meals on the grill, summer snack boards, homemade popsicles, and evenings in the backyard. Some of these variations are not used in the following recipes, but feel free to make any substitutions necessary. Here's how to keep your home free of houseflies. 
Glass is the recommended storage container for essential oil DIYs. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.)
How often do you have to reapply to keep the bugs at bay? Learn outdoor skills, like navigation, making campfires, avoiding ticks and bear, and managing water while hiking. Hey Helen, Heres a really handy conversion table I use for determining the approximate number of drops per essential oil bottle: http://mountainroseblog.com/dilutions-conversions/. Hi! Learn how your comment data is processed. Vegetable glycerin or oil is also added to dilute and disperse the essential oils. One of my favorite sites for essential oil safety is Learning About EOs.
dried herbs using any combination of peppermint, lavender, catnip, or spearmint. spreading health tips to those who dont understand and to those who really need it. And with summer comes one thing none of us love: bugs and mosquitoes. thankyou. (Some repellent recipes call for straight alcohol, such as vodka, but you can substitute with witch hazel, which tends to be gentler to skin.). 2005-2022 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Thanks. When you use our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. The only ingredients for pure vanilla extra should be: vanilla beans and alcohol. Thank you! It is very fragrant and ideal for a pleasant spray. 