When it comes to outdoor activities, there’s nothing more frustrating than being swarmed by mosquitoes. Not only can they ruin your day, but they can also transmit diseases like Zika and malaria. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 natural homemade mosquito repellent recipes that are effective in keeping those pesky insects at bay.
From sprays to balms, lotions to mists, these recipes use a combination of essential oils, herbs, and household ingredients to create a barrier against mosquitoes. And the best part? They’re all completely non-toxic and environmentally friendly. Whether you’re heading out for a hike, having a backyard BBQ, or simply spending time outdoors, these natural mosquito repellents are the perfect solution.
So, without further ado, let’s dive into our collection of 18 natural homemade mosquito repellent recipes that will keep you safe and bug-free all summer long!
Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Mosquito Repellent Spray
Stay bite-free with this simple recipe that combines the refreshing scents of lemon and eucalyptus! This repellent spray is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, campers, or anyone looking to avoid those pesky mosquitoes.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup witch hazel
– 1/4 cup distilled water
– 2 tablespoons lemon essential oil (10% concentration)
– 2 tablespoons eucalyptus essential oil (10% concentration)
– 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the witch hazel and distilled water.
2. Add the lemon and eucalyptus essential oils to the mixture. Stir well to combine.
3. Add the vitamin E oil and stir until fully incorporated.
4. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
5. Shake the bottle gently before each use to ensure the ingredients are well-mixed.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Peppermint and Lavender Essential Oil Blend
Combine the invigorating effects of peppermint with the soothing qualities of lavender to create a relaxing and refreshing blend. This perfect blend is ideal for promoting mental clarity, reducing stress, and calming the mind.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons carrier oil (jojoba or sweet almond)
– 10 drops peppermint essential oil
– 15 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the carrier oil and peppermint essential oil.
2. Add the lavender essential oil to the mixture and stir well.
3. Transfer the blend to a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: None required! This is an essential oil blend, not a recipe for cooking.
Enjoy your calming and refreshing Peppermint and Lavender Essential Oil Blend!
Apple Cider Vinegar and Witch Hazel Repellent
Say goodbye to pesky mosquitoes and other insects with this all-natural repellent using apple cider vinegar and witch hazel.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 cup witch hazel
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 10 drops of lavender essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the apple cider vinegar and witch hazel until well combined.
2. Add the lemon juice and stir to dissolve any sediment.
3. If desired, add the lavender essential oil for its calming benefits.
4. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
5. Shake the bottle well before each use.
Cooking Time: None! This repellent is ready to use straight away.
Tips:
– Reapply every 30 minutes or after swimming or sweating.
– You can also use this mixture as an aftershave lotion for dry skin relief.
– For added strength, let the mixture sit at room temperature for 24 hours before using.
Citronella and Coconut Oil Balm
This soothing balm combines the natural insect repellent properties of citronella oil with the nourishing benefits of coconut oil, providing a chemical-free solution to keep mosquitoes at bay.
Ingredients:
• 1/4 cup coconut oil
• 2 tablespoons citronella essential oil
• 2 tablespoons beeswax pellets
• 10 drops vitamin E oil
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil and beeswax pellets over low heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Once melted, remove from heat and add the citronella essential oil and vitamin E oil. Stir until well combined.
3. Pour the mixture into a clean, sterilized tin or glass container.
4. Allow the balm to cool and solidify at room temperature (approximately 30 minutes).
5. Once set, use as needed to repel mosquitoes and soothe skin irritations.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Tea Tree Oil and Water Repellent Mist
Stay dry and fresh with this natural repellent mist, featuring the potent properties of tea tree oil.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons witch hazel
– 10 drops tea tree essential oil
– 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together water and witch hazel.
2. Add the tea tree essential oil and stir well to combine.
3. Stir in the aloe vera gel until fully incorporated.
4. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
Usage: Shake well before use. Spray evenly over skin or clothing to repel moisture and enjoy the benefits of tea tree oil’s antimicrobial properties.
Vanilla Extract and Water Mosquito Spray
Repel mosquitoes without harsh chemicals using this simple and non-toxic spray made with vanilla extract and water. Perfect for outdoor activities, camping, or backyard gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup distilled water
– 2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the distilled water and vanilla extract until well combined.
2. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
3. Shake the bottle well for about 10 seconds to ensure the ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Spray the repellent on exposed skin or clothing before heading outdoors.
Cooking Time: None (just mix and shake!)
Tips:
– Reapply every 2-3 hours as needed.
– This spray is not a substitute for DEET-based repellents, but it’s a great alternative for those looking for a natural option.
– Always perform a patch test on a small area of skin before using any new product.
Neem Oil and Aloe Vera Gel Repellent
Stay bite-free and enjoy the outdoors with this simple and effective repellent made from neem oil and aloe vera gel. This natural formula is perfect for camping trips, backyard barbecues, or everyday use.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons Neem Oil
– 1/4 cup Aloe Vera Gel
– 1 tablespoon Water
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the neem oil and water until well combined.
2. Add the aloe vera gel to the mixture and stir until smooth.
3. Transfer the repellent to a spray bottle.
4. Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the ingredients are fully incorporated.
Cooking Time: None! Just shake and go!
This natural mosquito repellent is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, camping trips, or everyday use. Neem oil’s natural insecticidal properties repel mosquitoes, while aloe vera gel provides soothing relief from bug bites. Apply liberally to exposed skin and clothing before heading outdoors.
Garlic Infused Water Repellent Spray
Stay bug-free with this natural and effective repellent spray infused with garlic! This recipe uses the insect-repelling properties of garlic to create a spray that keeps mosquitoes, ticks, and other pesky insects at bay.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon witch hazel
– 1 teaspoon vodka (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the water and minced garlic. Bring to a simmer over low heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the mixture has reduced slightly and the garlic is well infused.
2. Remove from heat and let cool.
3. Stir in the witch hazel and vodka (if using).
4. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
5. Shake well before each use to emulsify the ingredients.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Tips:
– For best results, apply the spray liberally to exposed skin and clothing before heading outdoors.
– Reapply every few hours or after swimming or sweating.
– You can also add other natural insect repellents like lemongrass or citronella oil for enhanced effectiveness.
Rosemary and Olive Oil Mosquito Repellent
This rosemary and olive oil repellent is a simple and effective way to keep mosquitoes at bay without harsh chemicals. Perfect for outdoor activities or summer gatherings, this recipe is easy to make and gentle on the skin.
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup carrier oil (coconut or sweet almond oil)
– 2 tablespoons rosemary essential oil
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the carrier oil and rosemary essential oil until well combined.
2. Add the olive oil and lemon juice to the mixture and stir until smooth.
3. Transfer the repellent to a spray bottle.
4. Shake well before each use.
Cooking Time: None (just shake and go!)
Tips:
– Apply liberally to exposed skin and clothing before heading outdoors.
– Reapply every 2-3 hours or after swimming or sweating.
– For added protection, reapply after washing or showering.
Lavender and Almond Oil Body Rub
Experience the soothing benefits of lavender and almond oil with this simple body rub recipe. Perfect for relaxing after a long day or as a pre-sleep treatment, this blend of calming ingredients will leave your skin feeling soft and pampered.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons sweet almond oil
– 1 tablespoon dried lavender buds
– 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil (optional)
– 10 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the sweet almond oil, dried lavender buds, and vitamin E oil (if using).
2. Let the mixture steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the lavender to infuse into the oils.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve to remove the lavender buds.
4. Add the lavender essential oil and mix well.
5. Apply the body rub to your skin, using gentle circular motions to massage in.
6. Leave on for 15-20 minutes before showering or bathing.
Cooking Time: None (no heat required)
Clove and Lemon Slices Repellent Jar
Keep pesky bugs at bay with this simple and natural Clove and Lemon Slices Repellent Jar recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 10-12 whole cloves
– 6-8 slices of lemon (about 1/4 inch thick)
– A clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together sugar and water until dissolved.
2. Add lemon juice to the mixture and stir well.
3. Place the whole cloves in the bottom of the glass jar.
4. Arrange the sliced lemons on top of the cloves, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top.
5. Pour the sugar-lemon liquid over the lemons, making sure they are completely covered.
6. Secure the lid tightly and let it sit for at least 24 hours to allow the mixture to infuse.
Cooking Time: None
This repellent jar will keep for several months when stored in a cool, dry place. Simply wave the jar around your body or clothes to repel bugs naturally!
Geranium and Jojoba Oil Roll-On Repellent
Stay protected from mosquitoes and other pesky insects with this simple, non-toxic roll-on repellent. This recipe combines the natural insect-repelling properties of geranium essential oil with the moisturizing benefits of jojoba oil.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons jojoba oil
– 10 drops geranium essential oil
– 1 small glass roller bottle
Instructions:
1. In a small glass bowl, mix together the jojoba oil and geranium essential oil.
2. Pour the mixture into the roller bottle.
3. Close the cap tightly and roll it gently between your palms to combine.
4. Use as needed by rolling a small amount onto exposed skin or clothing.
Tips:
– Apply frequently for maximum protection.
– Reapply after swimming, showering, or sweating heavily.
– Shake well before each use to ensure the mixture is well-mixed.
Thyme and Vodka Mosquito Repellent Spray
Keep those pesky mosquitoes at bay with this natural and effective spray that combines the power of thyme with a hint of vodka. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, camping trips, or just enjoying your backyard.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup distilled water
– 1/4 cup witch hazel
– 2 tablespoons vodka
– 2 tablespoons dried thyme leaves
– 10 drops lemon eucalyptus essential oil
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the distilled water and witch hazel.
2. Add the vodka and stir well to combine.
3. Add the dried thyme leaves and let it steep for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a spray bottle.
5. Add the lemon eucalyptus essential oil and shake well.
Cooking Time: None! Just let it sit for at least 30 minutes before using.
This Thyme and Vodka Mosquito Repellent Spray is easy to make, non-greasy, and effective against mosquitoes and other biting insects. Simply spray it on your skin or clothing before heading outdoors, and enjoy the great outdoors without those pesky mosquitoes ruining the fun!
Lemongrass and Coconut Oil Repellent Lotion
Stay protected from mosquitoes with this all-natural lotion, infused with the anti-inflammatory properties of lemongrass and the moisturizing benefits of coconut oil.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 1/4 cup distilled water
– 2 tablespoons lemongrass essential oil
– 2 tablespoons witch hazel
– 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the coconut oil and distilled water until well combined.
2. Add the lemongrass essential oil, witch hazel, and vitamin E oil to the mixture. Stir until smooth.
3. Pour the lotion into an airtight container or bottle.
4. Apply 1-2 tablespoons of the lotion to exposed skin as needed.
Tips:
– Best used within 2 weeks of making.
– Reapply every 30 minutes for optimal protection.
– This lotion is not meant to be used on children under 3 years old.
Basil and Witch Hazel Repellent Mist
Keep those pesky insects at bay with this simple and effective DIY repellent mist. This refreshing blend of basil, witch hazel, and water will keep you bug-free all summer long!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup distilled water
– 2 tablespoons witch hazel
– 10-12 fresh basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon vodka (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, bring the water to a simmer.
2. Add the witch hazel and stir until well combined.
3. Remove from heat and let steep for at least 30 minutes with the basil leaves.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl.
5. Discard the solids and add the vodka (if using). Stir to combine.
6. Pour the repellent mist into a spray bottle and shake well.
Usage:
Spray this natural insect repellent mist on your skin, clothes, or gear before heading outdoors. Reapply as needed for continued protection.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe requires no cooking time at all.
Eucalyptus and Rubbing Alcohol Spray
A natural and effective household cleaner, this eucalyptus and water spray is perfect for tackling everyday messes.
Cedarwood and Shea Butter Repellent Balm
Keep pesky insects at bay with this natural repellent balm, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts!
Ingredients:
– 1/4 cup shea butter
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 2 tablespoons beeswax pellets
– 10 drops cedarwood essential oil
– 5 drops lemongrass essential oil
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the shea butter and coconut oil over low heat.
2. Once melted, add the beeswax pellets and stir until fully incorporated.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Add the cedarwood and lemongrass essential oils. Stir well to combine.
5. Pour into a glass jar or tin container.
6. Allow balm to cool and solidify before use.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is a no-cook, melt-and-mix affair.
Tips:
– Apply liberally to skin and clothing for optimal repellency.
– Reapply as needed throughout the day.
– Store in a cool, dry place to maintain quality.
Patchouli and Grapeseed Oil Mosquito Repellent
This all-natural mosquito repellent combines the earthy scent of patchouli with the lightweight benefits of grapeseed oil to keep pesky bugs at bay. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, this easy-to-make recipe is a great alternative to chemical-based products.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons patchouli essential oil
– 1/4 cup grapeseed oil
– 1/4 cup water
– 10 drops vitamin E oil (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the patchouli essential oil and grape seed oil.
2. Add in the water and stir until well combined.
3. If desired, add the vitamin E oil for its added skin benefits.
4. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
5. Shake well before each use to emulsify the ingredients.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready when you are.
Summary
Stay bite-free with these 18 natural homemade mosquito repellent recipes! From sprays to balms, mists to lotions, there’s something for everyone. Try the Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Mosquito Repellent Spray or the Peppermint and Lavender Essential Oil Blend for a refreshing and effective solution. Or go for the Apple Cider Vinegar and Witch Hazel Repellent for a more natural approach. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just spending time outdoors, these recipes will help keep those pesky mosquitoes at bay.