DIY Homemade Bug Spray Recipe

Are you tired of the strong and toxic chemicals in commercial bug sprays? Do you want to make a natural insect repellent that is not only effective but also safe for your family and the environment?

Look no further, as we have got you covered. In this guide, we will show you how to make a homemade bug spray that is easy to create, affordable, and customizable.

You will also learn about the benefits of using natural ingredients and essential oils to repel bugs. So let’s get started and protect ourselves from pesky insects without harming our health or planet.

How to Make Homemade Bug Spray

Ingredients and Supplies

To make your own homemade bug spray, you’ll need the following natural ingredients and supplies. These items are easily available at local stores or online.

Ingredients:

1. Distilled water: As a base for your bug spray, distilled water helps in diluting the essential oils and makes it easy to apply.
2. Witch hazel: A natural astringent with soothing properties, witch hazel helps to disperse the essential oils evenly throughout the spray.
3. Essential oils: These are the key ingredients that provide the bug-repellent properties. Some effective options include citronella, lavender, eucalyptus, lemongrass, tea tree, and peppermint oil. You can use a combination of these oils based on your preference and the specific bugs you want to repel.
4. Vegetable glycerin (optional): Adding a small amount of vegetable glycerin can help the mixture stay blended and increase the effectiveness of the spray.

Supplies:

1. Measuring cups or spoons: To measure the ingredients accurately.
2. A glass spray bottle: Preferably dark-colored, to store and apply the bug spray. Using glass helps prevent the essential oils from breaking down plastic over time.
3. A funnel: To easily pour the ingredients into the spray bottle without spills.
4. Labels and markers: To label your homemade bug spray, including the date of preparation and ingredients used.

Homemade Bug Spray Recipe

Follow this simple recipe and step-by-step instructions to make your own effective and natural homemade bug spray:

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup distilled water
• 1/2 cup witch hazel
• 40-50 drops of essential oils (choose a combination of citronella, lavender, eucalyptus, lemongrass, tea tree, or peppermint oil)
• 1 teaspoon vegetable glycerin (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the distilled water and witch hazel.
2. Add the essential oils to the mixture. You can choose one or a combination of oils based on your preference or the specific insects you want to repel. For example, citronella is effective against mosquitoes, while lavender helps repel flies and moths. Use a total of 40-50 drops, adjusting the ratio between the oils as desired.
3. If you’re using vegetable glycerin, add it to the mixture now. This is an optional ingredient, but it can help the spray stay blended and increase its effectiveness.
4. Stir the mixture well to ensure that all the ingredients are combined.
5. Using a funnel, carefully pour the mixture into a dark-colored glass spray bottle. The dark color helps protect the essential oils from sunlight, which can cause them to degrade over time.
6. Secure the spray nozzle on the bottle and shake well before each use to make sure the ingredients are well-mixed.
7. Label your homemade bug spray with the date of preparation and the ingredients used. This will help you remember what’s inside and when it was made.

Usage and Storage

To make the most of your homemade bug spray and ensure its longevity, follow these usage and storage tips:

Usage:

1. Shake the bottle well before each use to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
2. Spray the bug repellent onto your skin, clothing, or other surfaces where you want to repel insects. Be sure to avoid contact with your eyes, mouth, and any open wounds or irritated skin.
3. Reapply the bug spray every 2-3 hours or as needed, depending on the intensity of bugs in your area and your level of activity.
4. For added protection, you can also use the bug spray on surrounding surfaces like outdoor furniture, tents, or picnic blankets.

Storage:

1. Store your homemade bug spray in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Exposure to sunlight can cause the essential oils to degrade over time, reducing the effectiveness of the spray.
2. Make sure the spray nozzle is tightly secured on the bottle to prevent evaporation or contamination of the mixture.
3. Keep the bug spray out of reach of children and pets, as some essential oils can be harmful if ingested in large quantities.
4. Your homemade bug spray should last for several months, but always check the consistency and smell before using it. If the scent has changed significantly or the spray appears cloudy, discard it and make a fresh batch.

By following these usage and storage guidelines, you’ll be able to enjoy the benefits of your natural homemade bug spray throughout the bug season, protecting yourself and your loved ones from pesky insects while also being kind to the environment.

FAQs | How to Make Homemade Bug Spray?

Here are some frequently asked questions about homemade bug spray:

Q: Is homemade bug spray as effective as commercial insect repellents?

A: Yes, homemade bug spray can be just as effective as commercial products, especially if you use the right combination of essential oils. Studies have shown that certain essential oils like citronella and eucalyptus can be as effective as synthetic repellents like DEET.

Q: Can I customize the scent of my homemade bug spray?

A: Absolutely! That’s one of the benefits of making your own bug spray. You can choose the essential oils that you like and experiment with different combinations to create a scent that suits your preferences.

Q: Is it safe to use homemade bug spray on children and pets?

A: Yes, homemade bug spray is safe for use on children and pets as long as you follow the usage instructions and avoid contact with their eyes, mouth, and any open wounds or irritated skin. However, if you have concerns, it’s best to consult with a doctor or veterinarian before using any insect repellent on them.

Q: How long does homemade bug spray last?

A: Homemade bug spray can last for several months if stored properly in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Always check the consistency and smell before using it, and discard it if it appears cloudy or has an unpleasant odor.

Q: Will homemade bug spray stain my clothes or furniture?

A: It’s possible that some essential oils may leave stains on certain fabrics or materials. To avoid this, test a small area before spraying the entire surface. You can also dilute the mixture further with more water or witch hazel if you’re concerned about staining.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, making your own homemade bug spray is a simple and affordable way to protect yourself from pesky insects without exposing yourself to harmful chemicals.

The recipe we’ve shared uses a combination of distilled water, witch hazel, and essential oils, with the option to add vegetable glycerin for improved effectiveness.

By following our usage and storage tips, you can ensure that your homemade bug spray stays effective for several months. So go ahead and enjoy the great outdoors without worrying about being bitten or stung!