Here’s A DIY All-Natural Bug Spray To Keep Bugs Away

Dengue mosquito
Flickr | Oregon State University

Tired of using sticky, smelly sprays to keep bugs at bay? Try making your own bug repellent instead! By using a combination of essential oils and witch hazel, you’ll have bugs running (or flying) away in no time.

It couldn’t be easier. By making your own bug spray you can ensure the quality of ingredients.

No nasty chemicals here. This recipe calls for simple, natural ingredients that are guaranteed to keep you bug, and bite free.

It’s perfect for days at the beach or even a hike through the woods. This long-lasting formula will make you wonder why you haven’t been making your own bug spray sooner.

Ingredients

  • 30 – 50 drops of Essential oils – Choose from: Lemongrass, Lemon Eucalyptus, Citronella, Peppermint, Tea Tree, Cedar, Lavender, Clove, Rosemary. Here’s where to buy them.
  • 2 tablespoons Witch Hazel
  • 2 tablespoons of one or more of the following: almond oil, olive oil, jojoba oil. Here’s where to buy them.

How To Make Homemade Bug Repellent

  1. Take an eight ounce bottle, and add in the witch hazel.
  2. Next, add the two tablespoons of your mixing oil (the almond, olive, or jojoba oil) to the container.
  3. Add in a combination of your essential oils. The more oils that you add, the stronger the scent will be. These essential oils are imperative as this is what is going to keep the bugs at bay. My favorite combination of oils is citronella, eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender.
  4. Spritz the spray onto any area of the body that will be exposed to bugs.

A Few Tips

  • Essential oils don’t mix well with water. By using a liquid base such as witch hazel or even vodka, your oils will be able to mix properly with the other liquids allowing the spray to be more effective.
  • Just like sunscreen, you need to reapply this mix every few hours in order for it to be the most effective. Don’t let the bugs catch you off guard.
  • Lemon eucalyptus is one of the most effective oils to keep bugs at bay. It’s even recommended by the Center for Disease Control And Prevention as a natural bug repellent.
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About the Author
Emily McClure
Emily McClure is a freelance beauty blogger, event coordinator, and social media addict. When she isn't swatching lipsticks, you can find her ogling puppies and laughing at her own jokes. Her work has been published in The Boston Globe, HerCampus.com, and Bustle.

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