Making homemade mosquito repellents is a natural solution to repel mosquitoes and prevent mosquito-borne diseases. Some people find commercially prepared repellents too harsh for the skin. That is why they make their own homemade mosquito repellents.
The Natural Ingredients
Studies reveal that there are at least 3,000 species of mosquitoes worldwide. Essential oils, such as the following, will not be enough to repel them:
- Citronella oil
- Cinnamon oil
- Neem oil
- Peppermint oil
- Soybean oil
- Lavender oil
- Eucalyptus oil
- Catnip oil
- Tea tree oil
- Lemongrass oil
- Rosemary oil
- Geranium oil
- Thyme oil
Lemon juice and vinegar also repel mosquitoes, but these acids can irritate the skin. You can just spray apple cider vinegar and lemon in your outdoor spaces. Spraying is a good idea for outdoor gatherings.
Making Your Homemade Mosquito Repellent Spray
Below are the necessary steps in making natural mosquito repellent at home:
a) Place all your ingredients on the worktable or counter. You will need the following:
- Half a cup of vinegar, witch hazel, or alcohol
- Half a cup of distilled water
- About 30 to 40 drops of preferred essential oil
Witch hazel is the gentlest option, as rubbing alcohol can irritate the skin.
b) Place your chosen oils into a spray bottle. Shake well to combine them. Spray whenever you need mosquito protection. Shake the bottle before use because the oils will separate over time when not in use.
c) Combine the essential oils of your choice to make a custom scent. The mosquito repellent you create can also repel other bugs. It depends on the oils you choose. Lavender essential oil keeps ticks, gnats, and flies away. Cedarwood oil repels ticks.
A Closer Look at the Ingredients
The following ingredients have always been used in homemade mosquito repellents throughout history:
- Cinnamon oil can keep mosquitoes away. Studies reveal that this oil can also kill mosquito larvae. But dilute it first before applying it to your skin.
- Thyme essential oil repels fleas, mosquitoes, and ticks. Dilute it first to make it safe to use on your skin.
- Citrus and citronella oils are known as effective insect repellents. They are common ingredients in making aromatic candles that repel insects, such as flies and mites.
- Lavender oil can relax and sleep better. But it can also repel mosquitoes. You can safely apply this oil on your skin without dilution.
- Studies reveal that garlic oil may prevent tick infestations. It is EPA-approved for gardens and yards.
- Dill essential oil may ward off Lone Star Ticks that transmit Lyme disease. Don’t forget to dilute it first before applying it to your skin.
- Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) is an EPA-approved ingredient. Many insect repellents have it because it is effective in keeping mosquitoes away.
- Peppermint oil and peppermint are low-risk ingredients. You can use them to repel mosquitoes, flies, and other insects. Research shows that peppermint oil can also repel spiders.
Other Ways to Prevent Bug Bites
You can also do the following to protect yourself and your household from bites, aside from using your homemade mosquito repellents:
- Stay indoors at dawn and dusk
- When outdoors, wear loose-fitting, light-colored clothes
- Cover your feet, arms, ankles, and legs
- Avoid using scented perfumes and lotions when outside
- Use citronella candles when spending time outdoors
- Cover foods and drinks
- Pour out standing water
Making homemade mosquito repellents is a good way to keep track of the ingredients you use on your skin and around your home. It can also reduce the unsavory skin reactions you get from using commercial mosquito repellents. Sometimes, simple ingredients can make a difference in your health and well-being.