How to make a homemade mosquito repellent spray? We got you. You just need 3 ingredients to make this easy, natural protection against mosquitos.

During the summer months, they’re back: mosquitoes! Their bites itch, can swell, and sometimes even trigger allergic reactions. While there are many commercial mosquito repellents available, many people are concerned about the chemicals they contain and are looking for natural alternatives. Luckily, with just a few ingredients, you can make an effective homemade mosquito spray. In this article, we’ll show you how!

Here’s What You’ll Need for the Mosquito Repellent Spray

Making your DIY mosquito spray at home is actually easier than most things, and you don’t need a whole lab or a bunch of supplies for it.

In fact, you basically just need 4 essentials to make your own eco and skin-friendly mosquito repellent.
For a natural mosquito spray, you’ll need:

Essential Oils

Our faves? Lemon eucalyptus, coconut, lavender, and peppermint. They don’t just smell divine, they send mosquitoes packing! Don’t be afraid to mix and match if you prefer a combination of scents.

Note: The scent of basil will work too, but if we are unsure if you want to smell like an Italian pizza when you are going out.

Witch Hazel or Alcohol

These two act as the base to help blend and carry your oils. Opt for Witch Hazel as a more gentle alternative for sensitive skins, or if you plan to use the mosquito repellent spray for children.

Distilled or Boiled Water

You would need water to dilute the spray and make it easy to spray on the skin.

Generally, it doesn’t matter whether you opt for distilled or normal tap water that has been boiled. However, if your tap water is especially hard, it would be better to use distilled water instead to avoid having mineral residue on your clothes.

A Spray Bottle

For storing and applying your mosquito spray. We advise you to opt for a glass bottle – it is better for the environment, and you don’t need to have any extra microplastics into your life.

How to Make Your Own Anti-Mosquito Spray

Making your own mosquito-repellent spray at home is as easy as 1-2-3.

We mean it. It is much harder to bake a cake than to create a nature-inspired remedy against those pesky biters!

Note: The following recipe is for 100ml mosquito-repellent spray. If you are using a larger or a smaller bottle, adjust the quantities accordingly.

Step 1: Prepare the Mix

Fill your spray bottle halfway with witch hazel or alcohol.

Step 2: Add your preferred essential oil

Add 20-25 drops of the essential oil of your choice. You can use a combination of oils, but the total amount should not exceed 25 drops.

Step 3: Add Water

Fill the rest of the bottle with distilled or boiled water.

Step 4: Shake

Close the bottle and shake well to mix everything.

Step 5: Spray and Go

Shake well before each use and then spray directly onto the skin or clothing.

Tip: Some people might be sensitive to particular essential oils. That is why we would advise you to spray first on a small patch of skin. Wait at least an hour and observe if you have a rash or any other indication of irritation. If your skin feels fine, then you are good to go.

Be Cautious About These Things

  • Do a skin test before the first application to ensure you’re not allergic to any of the oils.
  • Avoid contact with eyes and mouth.
  • If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a doctor before use.
  • Store the spray in a cool, dark place and use it within 6 months (though we bet it’ll be your go-to all summer!).
  • Don’t use this spray for children as children might be more sensitive to certain essential oils and alcohol

Children-Friendly DIY Anti-Mosquito Spray

If you want to create a homemade mosquito repellent spray for your little ones, you need to be especially cautious and consider several important points:

  1. Essential Oils: Some essential oils are not suitable for children or should be used in reduced concentrations. For example, lemon eucalyptus oil is not recommended for children under 3 years old. Lavender and tea tree oil are generally safer for children, but it’s always advisable to do your research and ensure that the oils you choose are child-friendly.
  2. Concentration: For children, you should reduce the concentration of essential oils. Instead of the amount specified in the recipe, you might use half or even less.
  3. Testing: Always conduct a skin patch test on a small area of the child before applying, to ensure no allergic reaction occurs.
  4. Storage: Ensure that the spray is stored out of the reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion or spraying into the eyes or mouth.
  5. Usage: Always spray the mosquito repellent onto your own hands first, and then apply it to your child’s skin. Avoid areas near the eyes and mouth.
  6. Seek Advice: If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or if the spray is intended for very young children (under 2 years), you should consult a doctor or pharmacist before using.


Final Thoughts

Who said you need to smell like a lab to fend off mosquitos? This homemade DIY mosquito repelling spray is not only environmentally friendly and gentle on the skin, but can also be as effective as commercial products. With a few natural ingredients, you can protect yourself and your family from these pesky insects while still enjoying nature! Give it a try this summer and experience the difference.