You know that feeling when you step outside and instantly feel like a walking buffet for mosquitoes? Ugh, it drives me nuts! I mean, does anyone actually enjoy being bitten alive while trying to enjoy a summer evening? I can't be the only one who's had to swat away bugs more than I’ve enjoyed my time outside. So, I thought, why not whip up some DIY natural insect repellent? It can't be that hard, right? Last week, while sitting on my porch, I had a swarm of little bloodsuckers dive-bombing me and I just couldn't stay still. I want something natural, something that doesn’t feel like I’m spraying chemicals all over my skin. It just makes sense, doesn’t it? Plus, how satisfying would it be to create my own bug shield? Let’s see what we can do!
Items You’ll Need
- Essential oils (e.g., citronella, eucalyptus, lavender)
- Carrier oil (e.g., coconut oil, jojoba oil, olive oil)
- Spray bottle
- Measuring cup
- Measuring spoons
- Funnel
- Glass or metal mixing container
- Labels or markers for identifying the mixture
- Distilled water
- Optional: witch hazel or vinegar
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Gather My Equipment
I start by rounding up all my supplies. I need essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus, and lavender, a carrier oil such as coconut oil, and a spray bottle. Don't forget the measuring cup, measuring spoons, funnel, and a glass or metal mixing container. Labels will help me remember my concoction later!
Step 2: Decide on My Recipe
I decide how I want my repellent to smell and work. I choose 10 drops of citronella for its strong insect-repelling properties, 5 drops of eucalyptus for its fresh scent, and 5 drops of lavender to keep it calming.
Step 3: Measure the Carrier Oil
Next, I pour 2 tablespoons of my favorite carrier oil (today, I'm using coconut oil) into my mixing container. This will help carry the essential oils onto my skin.
Step 4: Add the Essential Oils
I carefully add the 10 drops of citronella, 5 drops of eucalyptus, and 5 drops of lavender into the carrier oil. The smell is already heavenly!
Step 5: Mix in Distilled Water
I take my distilled water and measure out 4 tablespoons. I'll add this to my oily mixture to create a nice blend that can be sprayed.
Step 6: Optional Ingredients
If I want a stronger formula, I can add 2 tablespoons of witch hazel or vinegar. Today, I decide to add witch hazel for its additional insect-repelling properties.
Step 7: Combine Everything
Using a funnel, I pour my oil and water mixture into the spray bottle. It’s looking really good! I shake it slowly and watch the ingredients combine.
Step 8: Label the Bottle
Now that I have my repellent, I grab my labels and write down 'DIY Natural Insect Repellent' and the date. I stick it on my spray bottle so I won’t mix it up with anything else.
Step 9: Testing My Creation
Time for the fun part! I spritz a little on my arm to test it out. It smells fantastic and feels refreshing. Now I’m ready to enjoy the outdoors, bug-free!