How to Make a 3-Ingredient, Natural Mosquito Repellent

As the warmer months roll in, so do the mosquitos. It can be tricky to keep these pesky intruders at bay, especially if you don’t want to use harsh chemicals. But fortunately, we have a simple, natural solution for you!

You can make your very own mosquito repellent using just three ingredients. This method is not only effective but also safe for your skin and the environment. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up! Create a natural bug spray that will work for you and your family with this step-by-step guide from Blain’s Farm & Fleet.

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3 ingredients, 0 mosquitoes. #bugspray #diybugspray #mosquitorepellant #diybugrepellant #essentialoils

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Why Natural Mosquito Repellents Work

Mosquitoes rely heavily on scent to locate their targets, tracking carbon dioxide, body heat, and the natural fragrances we emit. Certain plant-based ingredients produce aromas that interfere with that process, making it harder for mosquitoes to find you. Unlike DEET-based sprays, natural repellents are a reasonable choice for everyday outdoor activities like backyard gatherings, camping, or a walk in the park. But in case you’re traveling to an area with a high risk of mosquito-borne diseases like Zika or malaria, a CDC-approved chemical repellent is the more appropriate option.

Which Essential Oils Repel Mosquitoes?

Not all essential oils perform equally. Here are the most effective options to choose from for your homemade repellent:

• Citronella is one of the most well-known natural repellents, derived from lemongrass. When properly formulated, it can be as effective as DEET for up to two hours.
• Lavender repels mosquitoes while also offering mild antiseptic and soothing properties, making it a good option for sensitive skin.
• Peppermint has a strong scent that mosquitoes find unpleasant. It also provides mild itch relief if you do get bitten.
• Eucalyptus is one of the few natural ingredients approved by the CDC as an effective mosquito repellent. Lemon eucalyptus oil in particular has been shown to provide significant protection for up to three hours.
• Tea tree oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties and has shown effectiveness against mosquitoes, bush flies, and biting midges in field testing.
• Rosemary and lemongrass are both effective options that also work well when planted in outdoor spaces as a passive deterrent.

Avoid using any essential oil directly on the skin without diluting it first. Essential oils should always be mixed with a carrier liquid, which is exactly what this recipe does.

Ingredients

Before you begin making your natural bug spray, it’s important to understand why these ingredients are beneficial.

Water will act as the base of your DIY repellent. It will dilute the other ingredients to make them safe for your skin. Apple cider vinegar has a strong scent that mosquitos don’t like, and it’s natural and safe to use on your skin. And certain essential oils are known for their mosquito-repelling properties. (see above)

• 1 cup of water
• 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
• 10-15 drops of essential oils (peppermint, lavender, citronella, tea tree, eucalyptus, lemongrass, or rosemary)

You’ll also need a clean spray bottle to store your repellent.

Directions

1. Combine Water and Vinegar

In your spray bottle, mix the water and apple cider vinegar. The equal parts ensure that the vinegar’s scent is potent enough to repel mosquitos without being overwhelming.

2. Add Essential Oils

Add 10-15 drops of the essential oils of your choice. They’re effective for repelling mosquitos and will add a nice scent to the spray.

3. Shake Well

Secure the lid on your spray bottle, and shake it vigorously. This will ensure all the ingredients get thoroughly mixed.

Store your repellent in a cool, dark place to preserve its effectiveness. Use this homemade bug spray within one to two months for best results.

Application Tips

• Spray Liberally: Apply the repellent to your skin and clothing. Avoid contact with your eyes and mouth. If you want to use it on your face, we suggest spraying it on your hands first, then gently pat your face.
• Reapply as Needed: Depending on your activity level and the humidity, you might need to reapply every few hours to maximize effectiveness.
• Patch Test: If you have sensitive skin, you should do a patch test on a small area first to make sure you don’t have a strong reaction. If you experience any skin irritation, you can try reducing the amount of essential oils in the mixture. You can also just apply the bug spray to your clothing rather than your skin in this case.

Is This Repellent Safe Around Pets?

Some natural ingredients that are safe for humans are harmful to animals. If you have pets, take note of the following before using your homemade spray around them:

• Citronella is toxic to both dogs and cats if ingested or applied to skin. Use caution around pets and keep citronella products out of their reach.
• Tea tree oil is particularly toxic to cats and should not be applied anywhere a cat can lick.
• Lavender and peppermint can also cause issues for cats, including digestive upset and central nervous system effects.
• Pet-safe options include geranium oil and soybean oil, both of which can be applied to a pet’s coat. Check with your veterinarian before use.

Never apply a repellent to your pet that is formulated for human use. If your pet spends time outdoors during mosquito season, speak with your vet about appropriate preventative options.

Homemade Mosquito Repellent vs DEET: Which One Should You Use?

Natural repellents and DEET work differently, and the right choice depends on where you are and what you’re doing. Neither is universally better; they serve different situations.

Homemade repellents with essential oils and apple cider vinegar are a practical, skin-friendly option for low-risk everyday activities. They avoid synthetic chemicals, smell better, and are gentler for people with sensitivities. The tradeoff is durability. Natural sprays typically need reapplication every two to three hours.

DEET works by blocking mosquitoes’ ability to detect human scent, making it one of the most consistently effective repellents available. It lasts longer between applications and covers a wider range of biting insects, including ticks. Used correctly avoiding the eyes, mouth, and skin under clothing it is considered safe for most people, including children over two months of age.

The practical rule is straightforward: for backyard evenings, hikes, and casual outdoor time in low-risk areas, a natural bug spray is a reasonable choice. If you are traveling to a region where mosquitoes carry diseases like malaria, yellow fever, or Zika, the CDC recommends an EPA-registered repellent containing DEET. In those situations, stronger and more reliable protection is worth it. Either way, staying protected from bugs is crucial, especially during mosquito season. But with this homemade insect repellent, you’re not just avoiding bites. You’re also taking a step towards a more natural and environmentally friendly way of living.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you keep mosquitoes away naturally? 

The repellent spray in this guide is a good start, but there are several other ways to reduce mosquito activity around you. Plant mosquito-repelling herbs like basil, catnip, rosemary, and lemon balm in outdoor living areas for passive, ongoing protection. Citronella candles can add up to 50 percent extra protection when spending time outside. Wearing loose-fitting, long-sleeve clothing during peak mosquito hours, dusk and dawn, also makes a meaningful difference without any spray at all.

What is the safest mosquito repellent for kids? 

For children, lemon eucalyptus oil is one of the most effective natural options, though researchers caution against using it on children under three years of age. For younger children, reducing the essential oil concentration in a homemade spray and applying it to clothing rather than skin is the safer approach. If a stronger repellent is needed, the CDC considers DEET safe for children over two months of age when applied correctly, avoiding the hands, eyes, and mouth, and washing it off when back indoors.

What will keep mosquitoes away from my house? 

Start by removing standing water anywhere it collects around the property. Make sure window and door screens have no tears or gaps, and consider running air conditioning instead of opening windows during peak mosquito season. For persistent problems, mosquito traps that use carbon dioxide to attract and capture mosquitoes can help reduce the overall population in your yard over time.

For more how-to guides like this one, check out our other Camping articles.