When you spend more time outdoors in the summer, one of the main drawbacks is the insects. They can crawl on you, bite, and sting, so you might want to avoid them with actually harming them. This is where the following natural bug repellent remedies come in.
Ultimate DIY Bug Spray
The first type of natural bug repellent you can make is one that is something you put together on your own. The reason this is called the ultimate DIY spray is because you get to choose the recipe you want.
You can use essential oils for repelling different types of bugs during the summer, particularly when enjoying outdoor activities, and you can pick and choose which ones. Here is a list of essential oils that will work great:
- Citronella
- Clove
- Eucalyptus
- Rosemary
- Mint
- Lavender
- Cedar
There are also others to use. Some oils work better for certain types of bugs, while others are there to help it smell a little better. All you need to do is add about the same amount of drops for each oil you use, combine it with some water and a little rubbing alcohol, and add it all to a spray bottle.
Citronella Oil Bug Repellent
Next on the list is probably not a big surprise, which is making a bug spray using citronella. Many people use citronella candles on their patio or deck because flying bugs like mosquitoes and flies don’t like the smell. You can use citronella essential oil to make your own bug spray and repellent.
Add about 30 drops of this essential oil to a spray bottle with water, and you’re good to go. You can also make your own citronella candles if you prefer to go that route.
Dried Herbs Bug Repellent
Lastly, consider using dried herbs when making your bug spray repellent. You can also use fresh herbs if you are growing them in your garden. You are going to combine certain herbs that the insects don’t like, plus some vinegar or witch hazel added to the spray.
Herbs like lemongrass, citronella, peppermint, and other types of mint will work great. You want to boil water with the herbs, then strain it into a water bottle with distilled water and rubbing alcohol. Use this spray around your house, patio, or anywhere that you find bugs are hiding.
These natural repellent sprays won’t harm the insects, but they will keep them away from you and your home or campsite.
