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Mosquito Repellent Spray is a safe, non-toxic way to keep mosquitoes at bay using the power of essential oils. Made with ingredients you likely already have at home, this spray smells great, is gentle on the skin, and effective against unwanted bugs. Perfect for outdoor adventures, backyard BBQs, or everyday protection during mosquito season.
❤️ Why You’ll Love
This DIY mosquito repellent spray is simple to make, budget-friendly, and completely customizable. No synthetic chemicals or overpowering store-bought smells here just clean ingredients and essential oils that actually work. Plus, it’s gentle enough for adults and older kids with proper use.
🧽 Ingredients
Witch Hazel or Vodka (½ cup) – Acts as a natural preservative and helps essential oils blend into the mix. Vodka evaporates quickly and won’t leave a residue.
Distilled Water (½ cup) – Helps dilute the solution so it’s safe to spray directly on skin and clothes.
Vegetable Glycerin (1 tbsp, optional) – Helps the scent linger longer on your skin, increasing the effectiveness of the spray.
Essential Oils (30–40 drops total) – Choose a combination of oils known for repelling mosquitoes. Some great options include:
- Citronella (classic bug repellent)
- Lemongrass (sharp citrusy scent)
- Lavender (soothing + repellent)
- Eucalyptus (lemon or radiata – strong deterrent)
- Geranium (fights mosquitoes and ticks)
- Tea Tree (antiviral, antibacterial, insect-repelling)
- Peppermint (strong and refreshing, but not suitable for young children)
🥣 How to Make
- Start by pouring ½ cup of witch hazel (or vodka) and ½ cup of distilled water into a 4 oz glass spray bottle.
- Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable glycerin if using.
- Drop in your essential oils—30 to 40 drops total, combining your favorites.
- Screw on the spray top and shake well to mix everything together.
- Spray on exposed skin and clothing before going outdoors. Avoid eyes, mouth, and any broken skin. Shake before each use.
🪄 Tips and Tricks
- Always shake before spraying natural ingredients separate.
- Do a small patch test before applying to large areas of skin.
- Reapply every 90 minutes or after swimming/sweating.
- Label your bottle clearly so it’s not confused with other sprays.
🗒 Variations
Customize your spray blend to suit your preferences or what you have on hand:
- Soothing Blend: Lavender + Geranium + Tea Tree
- Powerhouse Protection: Citronella + Eucalyptus + Lemongrass
- Gentle for Older Kids: Lavender + Lemon Eucalyptus (age-appropriate)
🗒 Substitutions
If you’re out of a certain ingredient, no problem:
- No Witch Hazel? Use vodka or alcohol-free witch hazel.
- No Vegetable Glycerin? Skip it just reapply more often.
- No Distilled Water? Use boiled and cooled water as a short-term substitute.
🎁 How to Store
Store your mosquito repellent spray in a cool, dark place (a cupboard or shaded shelf works great). A glass spray bottle is ideal, especially when using citrus-based oils. This blend will stay effective for up to 6 months if stored properly.
🤔 Common Questions
Some oils (like peppermint, eucalyptus, and tea tree) are not recommended for kids under 3. Stick with lavender and geranium for younger children, and always consult your pediatrician first.
Yes! This natural formula is gentle enough for everyday use. Just be sure to shake before each use and do a patch test before your first full application.
Natural Mosquito Repellent Spray
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup Witch Hazel or Vodka
- 1/2 cup Distilled Water
- 1 tbsp Vegetable Glycerin, optional
- 30-40 drops Essential Oils
Instructions
- Start by pouring ½ cup of witch hazel (or vodka) and ½ cup of distilled water into a 4 oz glass spray bottle.
- Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable glycerin if using.
- Drop in your essential oils—30 to 40 drops total, combining your favorites.
- Screw on the spray top and shake well to mix everything together.
- Spray on exposed skin and clothing before going outdoors. Avoid eyes, mouth, and any broken skin. Shake before each use.