DIY Mosquito Repellent Spray to Repel Bugs

Last Updated on May 25, 2023 by Ellen Christian

You have got to try this DIY mosquito repellent! I’ve been spending more time outside now that gardening season is here and the bugs are definitely annoying me already. And, mosquitoes are probably one of the worst summer insect pests.

DIY Mosquito Repellent

So, why a DIY mosquito repellent? Have you ever taken a look at the ingredients in most traditional bug sprays? Yikes! I can see why they kill bugs. I am not a big fan of DEET at all. It’s a very controversial ingredient with many health concerns.

If you love essential oils, get your free diffusers blend guide and start making your own blends.

I really like being able to make my own personal care products when I can. Have you seen my mouthwash with essential oils and my mineralizing toothpaste?

After all, our ancestors didn’t run to the store every time they needed something. They learned to use the plants and natural ingredients around them to come up with alternatives. While there are definitely things that I still buy, I do like trying to make my own when I can.

Mist this DIY mosquito repellent spray onto a muslin bag filled with cotton batting so the scent will fill the room you’re in. Or, mist on your skin. Use a small amount to be sure there is no irritation. These muslin bags would be cute if you want to make your own.

Natural mosquito repellent plants

There are a lot of plants out there that mosquitoes and other insects just don’t like the smell of. Some of these have been used in this DIY mosquito repellent in the form of essential oils. And, it cannot hurt to plant some of them in your yard to help out a bit. 

Here are a few to choose from.

• Catnip
• Garlic
• Peppermint
• Lavender
• Lemon Balm
• Citronella
• Basil
• Marigolds

DIY mosquito repellent candle

Just like these essential oils will work in a bug spray, you can easily make a candle to set out on the picnic table that will help. This DIY Soy Candle uses both lavender and mint. You could add a few drops of citronella essential oil to the mixture as well.

DIY mosquito repellent supplies

You will need these supplies to make your own bug spray. 

• 1/3 cup Aloe Vera gel
• 1/3 cup distilled water
• 1 cup isopropyl alcohol
• 1/2 tablespoon fractionated coconut oil
• 5 drops of citronella essential oil
• 5 drops of clove essential oil
• 7 drops of lemon essential oil
• 5 drops of rosemary essential oil
• 3 4 ounce spray bottles
• Measuring cup
• Funnel
• Whisk 

How to make homemade bug spray

• Add your aloe gel, water, alcohol, and coconut oil to a measuring cup. Whisk together.
• Whisk in your essential oils. We have chosen essential oils that are shown to be safe for children. Please refer to online guidelines for the safe ratio of essential oils to carrier oils for the age of your child. You can double the amount of essential oils you are using if you are making the recipe for adults.
• Using a funnel, add the mixture for the DIY mosquito repellent into your bottle, stopping about ½” from the top. Add the top and screw on tightly. Affix your label!

You can download the free printable label right here. Or, you can simply make your own. Make sure that you always label your personal care products so there is no confusion about what they are. You don’t want to accidentally use something you weren’t intending to.

How long will this DIY mosquito repellent last?

If you store this properly, it will stay good for a few weeks. It may stay good for a longer period. But, remember that it needs to be stored in a cool area that is not in the sun. To be safe, I only make small quantities of any personal care item to be sure that they don’t go bad. 

More personal care items

If you want more projects like this DIY mosquito repellent, I hope you’ll try these.

• Homemade sanitizer spray with argan oil
• Arthritis essential oil rub
• Make your own hair rinse
• Homemade face cream