18 Natural Homemade Mosquito Repellent Recipes Effective

Buzzing with excitement to share these 18 natural homemade mosquito repellent recipes? You’re not alone! As the warmer months invite us outdoors, so do those pesky mosquitoes. But fear not—our roundup of effective, easy-to-make solutions will keep you enjoying your backyard barbecues and evening strolls bite-free. Dive into our list and discover your new go-to natural repellent today!

Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Mosquito Repellent

Essential for summer evenings, this Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Mosquito Repellent combines natural ingredients for effective protection.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup of pure almond oil, lightly fragrant and smooth
• 1/4 cup of fresh lemon eucalyptus oil, with a sharp, clean aroma
• 1 tbsp of beeswax pellets, for a sturdy, moldable consistency
• 1 tsp of vitamin E oil, adding a subtle, nourishing touch

Instructions

1. In a double boiler, gently melt the beeswax pellets over medium heat until fully liquid, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the pure almond oil and fresh lemon eucalyptus oil until the mixture is uniformly combined, ensuring no lumps remain.
3. Remove from heat and quickly mix in the vitamin E oil to preserve the repellent’s freshness.
4. Pour the mixture into small, clean containers or tins, leaving space at the top for easy application.
5. Allow the repellent to cool and solidify at room temperature for 2 hours before use.

Lightly rub the repellent onto exposed skin for a protective barrier that smells refreshingly citrusy. Its smooth texture glides on without greasiness, making it a pleasant alternative to chemical sprays.

Lavender Scented Mosquito Repellent Spray

Banish bugs naturally with this lavender-scented mosquito repellent spray. It’s easy to make and smells delightful.

Ingredients

• 1 cup distilled water
• 1/2 cup witch hazel
• 1/4 cup fresh lavender flowers, fragrant and pesticide-free
• 10 drops lavender essential oil, pure and therapeutic grade
• 5 drops citronella essential oil, crisp and citrusy

Instructions

1. Combine distilled water and witch hazel in a clean 16-ounce spray bottle.
2. Add fresh lavender flowers to the bottle, ensuring they’re fully submerged.
3. Drop in lavender and citronella essential oils. Tip: Swirl the bottle gently to mix the oils without shaking, which can create bubbles.
4. Seal the bottle tightly and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 24 hours to infuse. Tip: This step enhances the fragrance and efficacy of the repellent.
5. After infusing, shake the bottle well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
6. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve into another clean bottle to remove lavender flowers. Tip: For a stronger scent, leave the flowers in for up to 48 hours before straining.
7. Your lavender-scented mosquito repellent spray is ready to use. Apply liberally on exposed skin, avoiding eyes and mouth.

Yields a light, refreshing spray with a soothing lavender aroma. Perfect for outdoor gatherings or garden evenings. Store in a cool place to preserve its potency.

Peppermint Oil Mosquito Repellent

Rid your outdoor gatherings of pesky mosquitoes with this natural, peppermint-scented repellent. Easy to make and effective, it’s a must-try for summer evenings.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup of pure, cold-pressed almond oil
• 15 drops of high-quality peppermint essential oil
• 1/4 cup of finely grated beeswax
• 1/2 tsp of vitamin E oil, for preservation

Instructions

1. In a double boiler, melt the beeswax with almond oil over low heat, stirring occasionally until fully combined.
2. Remove from heat and let cool for 2 minutes, ensuring it’s not too hot to touch.
3. Add peppermint essential oil and vitamin E oil to the mixture, stirring gently to incorporate.
4. Pour the mixture into small, clean tins or jars, leaving a little space at the top.
5. Let the repellent cool and solidify at room temperature for about 1 hour before use.

Oozing a refreshing peppermint aroma, this repellent leaves a non-greasy, protective layer on the skin. Perfect for applying before a backyard barbecue or a hike in the woods.

Citronella Candles for Mosquito Control

Essential for summer evenings, these homemade citronella candles keep mosquitoes at bay while adding a cozy glow to your outdoor space.

Ingredients

• 1 cup soy wax flakes, for a clean burn
• 1/4 cup citronella essential oil, for potent mosquito repellent
• Pre-waxed candle wicks, for easy setup
• Heat-resistant glass containers, for safe candle holding
• Double boiler, for melting wax safely

Instructions

1. Set up a double boiler over medium heat. Fill the bottom pot with 2 inches of water.
2. Place 1 cup of soy wax flakes into the top pot. Stir occasionally until fully melted, about 10 minutes. Tip: Avoid high heat to prevent wax from discoloring.
3. Remove the melted wax from heat. Carefully stir in 1/4 cup of citronella essential oil until well combined. Tip: Add oil off the heat to preserve its repellent properties.
4. Secure a pre-waxed wick to the bottom of each glass container. Pour the wax mixture into containers, leaving 1/2 inch at the top. Tip: Use a chopstick to center the wick as the wax cools.
5. Let candles cool at room temperature for 4 hours, or until solid. Trim the wick to 1/4 inch before lighting.

Outdoors, these candles emit a refreshing citrusy aroma while effectively warding off pests. Their smooth, creamy texture makes them a stylish addition to any patio table.

Apple Cider Vinegar Mosquito Trap

Zesty and effective, this Apple Cider Vinegar Mosquito Trap is a must-try for outdoor gatherings. Simple ingredients lure pests away, keeping your space bite-free.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup of granulated white sugar
• 1 cup of warm water
• 1 small piece of ripe banana
• 1 drop of liquid dish soap

Instructions

1. In a clean mason jar, combine the raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar and granulated white sugar.
2. Pour in the warm water and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved.
3. Add the small piece of ripe banana to the mixture to enhance the fermentation scent.
4. Place the jar in a sunny spot outdoors to accelerate the fermentation process, about 24 hours.
5. After fermentation, add the drop of liquid dish soap to break the surface tension, ensuring mosquitoes drown.
6. Set the trap near seating areas but away from where you eat to effectively draw mosquitoes away.

Attracting mosquitoes with its sweet, fermented aroma, this trap is both efficient and easy to make. The addition of banana increases its effectiveness, making it a standout solution for summer evenings.

Garlic Spray Mosquito Repellent

Create a natural barrier against mosquitoes with this easy-to-make garlic spray repellent. Combine simple ingredients for an effective, chemical-free solution.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of fresh garlic cloves, finely minced
• 4 cups of distilled water, boiled and cooled
• 2 tablespoons of organic coconut oil, cold-pressed
• 1 teaspoon of pure lemon juice, freshly squeezed

Instructions

1. Peel and finely mince 1 cup of fresh garlic cloves to release their potent oils.
2. Boil 4 cups of distilled water, then let it cool to room temperature to preserve the garlic’s properties.
3. Combine the minced garlic and cooled distilled water in a large glass jar.
4. Seal the jar tightly and let the mixture steep in a cool, dark place for 24 hours to infuse.
5. Strain the garlic pieces from the water using a fine mesh sieve, pressing to extract all liquid.
6. Add 2 tablespoons of cold-pressed organic coconut oil to the garlic water for adhesion to skin.
7. Mix in 1 teaspoon of freshly squeezed pure lemon juice to enhance the repellent’s effectiveness.
8. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle, shaking well before each use to combine the oil and water.

This garlic spray leaves a subtle, earthy scent on the skin while keeping mosquitoes at bay. For best results, apply to exposed skin before outdoor activities, avoiding sensitive areas.

Neem Oil Mosquito Repellent Lotion

Protect your skin naturally with this easy-to-make neem oil mosquito repellent lotion. Perfect for summer evenings, it combines simple ingredients for effective protection.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup organic, cold-pressed neem oil (with a strong, earthy aroma)
• 1/4 cup pure, food-grade almond oil (light and subtly sweet)
• 2 tbsp beeswax pellets (natural, golden-yellow)
• 10 drops essential oil (eucalyptus or lavender, for a fresh, soothing scent)

Instructions

1. In a double boiler, melt the beeswax pellets over medium heat until fully liquid, stirring occasionally.
2. Add the neem oil and almond oil to the melted beeswax, stirring gently to combine. Tip: Ensure the mixture is warm but not boiling to preserve the oils’ properties.
3. Remove from heat and let cool for 2 minutes before adding the essential oil. Tip: Adding essential oils while too hot can reduce their effectiveness.
4. Pour the mixture into a clean, dry glass jar and let it solidify at room temperature for 1 hour. Tip: For a smoother texture, stir occasionally as it cools.
5. Once solidified, your lotion is ready to use. Apply a small amount to exposed skin before heading outdoors.

Dense yet easily spreadable, this lotion leaves a protective layer without greasiness. Its herbal scent is potent enough to deter mosquitoes but pleasant for daily use. Try storing it in a cool place to maintain consistency.

Vanilla Extract Mosquito Repellent

Believe it or not, vanilla extract can double as a mosquito repellent. This simple concoction is easy to make and surprisingly effective.

Ingredients

• 1 cup pure vanilla extract (high-quality, alcohol-based)
• 1/2 cup distilled water (fresh, clean)
• 10 drops lavender essential oil (organic, fragrant)

Instructions

1. In a clean spray bottle, combine the pure vanilla extract and distilled water.
2. Add the lavender essential oil to the mixture for an added repellent effect and pleasant scent.
3. Shake the bottle vigorously for 30 seconds to ensure all ingredients are well blended.
4. Store the mixture in a cool, dark place for 24 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Before use, shake the bottle again to mix the ingredients thoroughly.
6. Spray lightly on exposed skin, avoiding the eyes and mouth. Reapply every 2 hours for maximum effectiveness.

Does the vanilla extract mosquito repellent leave a subtle, sweet scent on your skin. Its light texture ensures comfort without stickiness. Try pairing it with a sprig of fresh lavender for a decorative touch when serving to guests.

Tea Tree Oil Mosquito Repellent Spray

Just in time for summer, this Tea Tree Oil Mosquito Repellent Spray is a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts. Easy to make and effective, it’s your natural defense against pesky bugs.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of distilled water, pure and clean
• 1/4 cup of witch hazel, alcohol-free and soothing
• 15 drops of tea tree oil, aromatic and potent
• 10 drops of lavender oil, floral and calming
• 5 drops of eucalyptus oil, crisp and refreshing

Instructions

1. Gather all ingredients and a clean 8-ounce spray bottle.
2. Pour 1 cup of distilled water into the spray bottle, ensuring no spills.
3. Add 1/4 cup of witch hazel to the water, creating a base for the spray.
4. Carefully drop 15 drops of tea tree oil into the mixture for its mosquito-repelling properties.
5. Include 10 drops of lavender oil to add a pleasant scent and enhance repellency.
6. Finish with 5 drops of eucalyptus oil for an extra layer of protection and freshness.
7. Secure the spray bottle cap and shake well to blend all ingredients thoroughly.
8. Store in a cool, dark place when not in use to preserve the oils’ potency.

Not only does this spray keep mosquitoes at bay, but it also leaves a refreshing, herbal aroma on your skin. Perfect for applying before hikes, picnics, or any outdoor adventure.

Rosemary and Mint Mosquito Repellent

Tired of mosquitoes ruining your outdoor dining? This Rosemary and Mint Mosquito Repellent is your natural solution. It’s easy to make and smells divine.

Ingredients

– 1 cup fresh rosemary sprigs, woody stems removed
– 1 cup fresh mint leaves, tightly packed
– 2 cups distilled water
– 1/4 cup high-proof vodka, for preservation
– 10 drops citronella essential oil, for extra repellent power

Instructions

1. Rinse 1 cup fresh rosemary sprigs and 1 cup fresh mint leaves under cold water to remove any dirt.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the herbs with 2 cups distilled water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, allowing the water to absorb the herbs’ oils.
4. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature, about 1 hour.
5. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing on the herbs to extract all liquid.
6. Stir in 1/4 cup high-proof vodka and 10 drops citronella essential oil until well combined.
7. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle for easy application.
8. Store in a cool, dark place when not in use to preserve potency.
Lavender fields could envy this repellent’s aroma. Its light, herbal scent is unexpectedly refreshing, making it a pleasant alternative to chemical sprays. Use it to mist your patio or skin before evening gatherings.

Basil Leaf Mosquito Repellent

Unbelievably simple yet effective, this basil leaf mosquito repellent harnesses the power of nature to keep pests at bay. Perfect for outdoor gatherings or a quiet evening on the porch.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, tightly packed and aromatic
• 1/2 cup distilled water, clear and pure
• 1/4 cup vodka, high-proof for better extraction
• 1 tbsp witch hazel, soothing and alcohol-free
• 10 drops lemon eucalyptus oil, crisp and refreshing

Instructions

1. Wash the fresh basil leaves under cold running water to remove any dirt. Pat dry gently with a clean towel.
2. In a blender, combine the basil leaves and distilled water. Blend on high for 30 seconds until the mixture is smooth.
3. Strain the blended mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a clean bowl, pressing down to extract all liquid. Discard the solids.
4. Pour the strained basil liquid into a spray bottle. Add the vodka, witch hazel, and lemon eucalyptus oil.
5. Secure the spray bottle lid and shake vigorously for 20 seconds to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
6. Store the repellent in a cool, dark place for up to 2 weeks. Shake well before each use.

Pleasantly potent, this repellent leaves a refreshing scent in the air while effectively warding off mosquitoes. For an extra touch, chill before spritzing for a cooling effect on hot summer days.

Clove Oil Mosquito Repellent

Kick off your summer evenings with a natural solution to keep mosquitoes at bay. This clove oil mosquito repellent is easy to make and effective.

Ingredients

– 1/2 cup of pure coconut oil, smooth and fragrant
– 15 drops of clove essential oil, spicy and potent
– 10 drops of eucalyptus essential oil, crisp and refreshing
– 5 drops of peppermint essential oil, cool and invigorating

Instructions

1. In a small glass bowl, combine 1/2 cup of pure coconut oil with 15 drops of clove essential oil. Stir gently to blend.
2. Add 10 drops of eucalyptus essential oil and 5 drops of peppermint essential oil to the mixture. Stir until all oils are fully incorporated.
3. Transfer the mixture into a dark glass bottle with a tight-fitting lid to preserve the oils’ potency.
4. Store the bottle in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months. Shake well before each use.
5. Apply a small amount of the repellent to exposed skin, avoiding the eye area. Reapply every 4-6 hours as needed.
Layered with the warmth of clove and the freshness of eucalyptus and peppermint, this repellent leaves a protective, aromatic barrier. Ideal for outdoor gatherings, it’s a must-have for any summer adventure.

Witch Hazel and Essential Oils Mosquito Repellent

Now, let’s tackle a natural way to keep those pesky mosquitoes at bay with a homemade repellent that’s both effective and easy to make.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup of witch hazel extract (alcohol-free, soothing)
• 1/4 cup of distilled water (pure, clean)
• 30 drops of eucalyptus essential oil (fresh, invigorating)
• 20 drops of lavender essential oil (calming, floral)
• 10 drops of peppermint essential oil (cooling, sharp)

Instructions

1. Gather all ingredients and a 4-ounce spray bottle for mixing.
2. Pour the witch hazel extract into the spray bottle, ensuring it’s clean and dry.
3. Add the distilled water to the bottle, leaving a little space at the top for the essential oils.
4. Drop in the eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint essential oils one by one.
5. Secure the spray bottle’s cap tightly and shake well for 30 seconds to blend all ingredients thoroughly.
6. Label the bottle with the date and contents for future reference.
7. Store in a cool, dark place to preserve the oils’ potency.

Done. This repellent offers a refreshing mist with a herbal aroma that’s pleasant to humans but deters mosquitoes. For best results, shake well before each use and reapply every 2 hours when outdoors.

Soybean Oil Based Mosquito Repellent

You might not think of soybean oil as a kitchen staple beyond frying, but it’s the secret weapon in this homemade mosquito repellent. Easy to make and surprisingly effective, this recipe will keep pests at bay without harsh chemicals.

Ingredients

– 1 cup pure, cold-pressed soybean oil
– 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice, squeezed from ripe lemons
– 10 drops of crisp, clean eucalyptus essential oil
– 5 drops of sharp, invigorating peppermint essential oil

Instructions

1. In a clean, dry glass bowl, combine 1 cup pure, cold-pressed soybean oil with 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice.
2. Add 10 drops of crisp, clean eucalyptus essential oil to the mixture.
3. Stir in 5 drops of sharp, invigorating peppermint essential oil.
4. Whisk the ingredients together until fully blended, about 1 minute.
5. Pour the mixture into a dark glass spray bottle to preserve the oils’ potency.
6. Store the repellent in a cool, dark place for up to 1 month.
7. Shake well before each use to ensure the oils are evenly distributed.
8. Apply sparingly to exposed skin, avoiding eyes and mouth.
Enjoy the light, refreshing scent of this repellent as it protects you from mosquitoes. Its non-greasy formula absorbs quickly, leaving no residue behind.

Catnip Oil Mosquito Repellent

Banish those pesky mosquitoes with this natural, aromatic catnip oil repellent. Easy to make and safe for the whole family, it’s a summer must-have.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh catnip leaves, tightly packed and fragrant
• 1 cup pure almond oil, light and subtly sweet
• 1 small glass jar with lid, sterilized and dry
• Cheesecloth, clean and tightly woven
• Dark glass dropper bottles, for storage

Instructions

1. Rinse the fresh catnip leaves under cool water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry gently with a clean towel.
2. Place the dried catnip leaves into the sterilized glass jar. Pour the pure almond oil over the leaves until they are completely submerged.
3. Seal the jar tightly with the lid. Store it in a warm, sunny spot for 2 weeks to infuse, shaking the jar gently every other day.
4. After 2 weeks, strain the oil through the cheesecloth into a clean bowl, squeezing out every last drop of oil from the leaves.
5. Transfer the infused catnip oil into dark glass dropper bottles to protect it from sunlight. Label the bottles with the date.

Enjoy the light, herbal aroma of your homemade catnip oil mosquito repellent. Apply a few drops to pulse points or mix with water in a spray bottle for a refreshing mist.

Geranium Oil Mosquito Repellent

Create a natural barrier against pests with this simple, effective geranium oil mosquito repellent. Combine a few key ingredients for a solution that’s as pleasant for you as it is unpleasant for mosquitoes.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup of pure almond oil, smooth and lightly nutty
• 1/4 cup of witch hazel, crisp and clean
• 20 drops of geranium essential oil, floral and robust
• 10 drops of lavender essential oil, soothing and aromatic

Instructions

1. Measure 1/2 cup of pure almond oil into a clean, dry glass bowl.
2. Add 1/4 cup of witch hazel to the bowl, stirring gently to combine.
3. Carefully drop in 20 drops of geranium essential oil, ensuring even distribution.
4. Follow with 10 drops of lavender essential oil, mixing well to blend all scents.
5. Pour the mixture into a dark glass spray bottle to protect the oils from sunlight.
6. Shake well before each use to emulsify the ingredients.
7. Apply lightly to exposed skin, avoiding eyes and mouth.

With its floral aroma and silky texture, this repellent feels more like a personal fragrance than a bug deterrent. Store in a cool, dark place to preserve its potency and refresh your application every 2 hours for continuous protection.

Thyme Oil Mosquito Repellent

Summer evenings call for a natural solution to keep mosquitoes at bay. This thyme oil repellent is easy to make and effective.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh thyme sprigs, aromatic and tightly packed
• 1 cup extra virgin olive oil, rich and golden
• 1 small glass jar with lid, sterilized

Instructions

1. Rinse the fresh thyme sprigs under cold water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean towel.
2. Place the dried thyme sprigs into the sterilized glass jar, packing them tightly to maximize flavor extraction.
3. Pour the extra virgin olive oil over the thyme until the sprigs are completely submerged. Tip: Use a spoon to press down on the thyme if necessary to ensure full coverage.
4. Seal the jar tightly and place it in a sunny windowsill for 48 hours to infuse. Tip: Shake the jar gently once a day to help distribute the thyme’s essential oils.
5. After 48 hours, strain the oil through a fine mesh sieve into a clean container, pressing on the thyme to extract all the oil. Discard the spent thyme.
6. Transfer the thyme-infused oil to a dark glass bottle for storage. Tip: Label the bottle with the date to keep track of freshness.

The resulting thyme oil has a robust herbal aroma and a light green hue. Apply it sparingly to exposed skin before heading outdoors. Its natural fragrance is both pleasant and potent against pests.

Cedarwood Oil Mosquito Repellent

Tired of mosquitoes ruining your outdoor gatherings? This Cedarwood Oil Mosquito Repellent is your natural solution. Easy to make and effective, it keeps pests at bay without harsh chemicals.

Ingredients

– 1/2 cup pure, cold-pressed coconut oil
– 20 drops high-quality cedarwood essential oil
– 10 drops refreshing peppermint essential oil
– 5 drops zesty lemon essential oil

Instructions

1. In a small, clean glass bowl, combine 1/2 cup pure, cold-pressed coconut oil with 20 drops of high-quality cedarwood essential oil.
2. Add 10 drops of refreshing peppermint essential oil and 5 drops of zesty lemon essential oil to the mixture.
3. Stir the ingredients thoroughly with a glass rod until fully blended. Tip: Glass tools prevent oil degradation.
4. Transfer the mixture into a dark glass bottle with a tight lid to preserve its potency. Tip: Dark glass protects the oils from sunlight.
5. Store the bottle in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months. Tip: Shake well before each use to redistribute the oils.

Smooth and aromatic, this repellent glides on skin without greasiness. Its woodsy, minty scent is surprisingly pleasant, making it a favorite for summer evenings. Apply to exposed skin or dab onto clothing for extra protection.

Conclusion

Creating a mosquito-free environment naturally is easier than you think with these 18 homemade repellent recipes. Whether you’re looking for a spray, candle, or lotion, there’s something here for everyone. We’d love to hear which recipe becomes your favorite—drop us a comment below! Don’t forget to share this roundup on Pinterest to help others enjoy their outdoor spaces without the buzz. Happy mixing!

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