Homemade Bug Repellent

While my kids still have a few days left of school, I think it is safe to say that the summer weather here in Florida has officially begun. While we love the warm weather, we definitely don’t love the bugs!

My youngest daughter has extremely sensitive skin, so when it comes to using bug repellent we have to be pretty careful. Luckily we have discovered a super easy alternative to the chemical stuff that not only works great at keeping the bugs away, but smells fantastic!

Here is what you need:

witch hazel
baby oil
vanilla extract
assorted essential oils or Bug-Off Synergy essential oil blend
whole cloves (optional)
empty spray bottle

Step 1: Measure 2/3 cup witch hazel into measuring cup.

Step 2: Add baby oil to make approximately one cup of liquid.

Step 3: Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. (Make sure vanilla extract does not contain any sugar)

Step 4: Add 30-40 drops of assorted essential oils. I like to use cinnamon, lavender, peppermint, lemongrass, and eucalyptus, but I have also found it is a little faster and easier to just use this Bug-Off Synergy essential oil blend.

Step 5: Add 4-5 whole cloves to the liquid.

Step 6: Carefully pour homemade bug repellent mixture into an empty spray bottle. Be sure to label bottle! Shake well before using. Apply liberally to skin to keep bugs away.

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Recipe: Homemade Bug Repellent

Summary: This all natural bug spray smells great, is gentle enough for sensitive skin and will keeps bug at bay!

Ingredients

witch hazel
baby oil
vanilla extract
assorted essential oils or bug-free essential oil blend
whole cloves (optional)
empty spray bottle

Instructions

Measure 2/3 cup witch hazel into measuring cup.
Add baby oil to make approximately one cup of liquid.
Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. (Make sure vanilla extract does not contain any sugar)
Add 30-40 drops of assorted essential oils. I like to use cinnamon, lavender, peppermint, lemongrass, and eucalyptus, but I have also found it is a little faster and easier to just use this bug-free essential oil blend.
Add 4-5 whole cloves to the liquid.
Carefully pour mixture into an empty spray bottle. Be sure to label bottle! Shake well before using. Apply liberally to skin to keep bugs away.

Preparation time: 5 minute(s)