How to Make Natural Insect Repellent Spray at Home | Simple & Effective Recipe
Learning how to make natural insect repellent spray at home is easier than you might think.
This simple recipe uses a blend of essential oils and everyday ingredients to help keep mosquitoes and other pesky insects away while you enjoy gardening, camping, hiking, or relaxing in your backyard.
Nothing can ruin an afternoon in the garden or a relaxing evening on the patio faster than mosquitoes buzzing around your head.
Over the years, I’ve tried a variety of insect repellents. Some worked well, but many left my skin feeling sticky, smelled overpowering, or contained ingredients I’d rather avoid whenever possible.
If you’re looking for a simple, natural alternative for everyday outdoor activities, this homemade insect repellent is one of my favorites.
It’s made with a blend of essential oils that insects dislike, and unlike many DIY recipes you’ll find online, this one doesn’t rely on phototoxic citrus oils that can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
MAKE YOUR OWN INSECT REPELLENT STICKER LABELS
Even better, I’ve included a FREE printable PDF label template that includes the recipe, so when it’s time to make a new batch, you don’t have to search for it!
Why Make Your Own Insect Repellent?
Many commercial insect repellents contain ingredients such as DEET or other synthetic active ingredients. These products are very effective and are recommended when protection against mosquito-borne illnesses is important.
However, for everyday backyard gardening, hiking, camping, or spending time on the patio, many people prefer a more natural option that’s made with familiar ingredients.
Making your own spray allows you to:
Know exactly what’s in it
Avoid heavy perfumes and sticky residues
Customize the scent
Save money
Make fresh batches whenever needed
A Natural Recipe That’s Friendlier for Sun-Sensitive Skin
One thing I really appreciate about this recipe is that it avoids essential oils commonly associated with phototoxicity.
Many homemade bug spray recipes include oils like:
Bergamot
Lime
Lemon
Bitter orange
These oils can increase your skin’s sensitivity to UV light and may lead to irritation or discoloration after sun exposure.
Instead, this recipe uses essential oils that are generally considered non-phototoxic when properly diluted, making it a much better option if you’ll be working in the garden, hiking, or spending the day outdoors.
If you have very sensitive skin or a medical condition that increases sun sensitivity, it’s still a good idea to do a small patch test before applying any new product.
Homemade Natural Insect Repellent Recipe
Makes one 4-ounce spray bottle.
Ingredients
4 tablespoons witch hazel
4 tablespoons distilled water
1 tablespoon fractionated coconut oil
20 drops of lemon eucalyptus essential oil
15 drops of citronella essential oil
15 drops cedarwood essential oil
10 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions
Add all ingredients to a clean 4-ounce spray bottle.
Shake well before every use.
Spray lightly onto exposed skin and clothing, avoiding your eyes and face.
Reapply every 1–2 hours or as needed, especially after sweating.
Mini 15 ml Spray Bottle Travel Size
These little spray bottle lids fit onto a 15 ml essential oil bottle. Perfect for a travel-size insect spray. It’s something you can throw into your purse, backpack, or car.
Why These Essential Oils?
Lemon Eucalyptus
This essential oil is well known for its insect-repelling properties and contributes much of the blend’s effectiveness. (Note: This is different from the EPA-registered Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus products that contain the compound PMD.)
Citronella
One of the most recognized natural mosquito deterrents, citronella has been used for generations in candles, sprays, and outdoor products.
Cedarwood
Cedarwood adds an earthy scent while helping discourage mosquitoes and other biting insects.
Lavender
Besides smelling wonderful, lavender may help repel mosquitoes while also soothing the skin.
Helpful Tips
Shake before every use since natural ingredients can separate.
Store in a cool, dark place.
Make a fresh batch every few months for the best fragrance and performance.
Avoid spraying directly into your eyes or onto broken skin.
Test on a small area of skin if you have allergies or sensitive skin.
When I Like to Use This Spray
I keep a bottle:
In my gardening tote
In the car
In my camping gear
Near the patio door
In my hiking backpack
It’s become one of those simple DIY recipes that I reach for all summer long.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this work as well as DEET?
Natural insect repellents can help discourage mosquitoes, but they generally don’t last as long or provide the same level of protection as EPA-registered repellents. If you’re traveling to an area where mosquito-borne diseases are a concern, follow local public health recommendations.
Can children use this recipe?
Some essential oils aren’t recommended for very young children. Check with your pediatrician or a qualified healthcare professional before using essential oils on children.
Can I spray it on clothing?
Yes. Many people lightly mist clothing and exposed skin. Test first on delicate fabrics to make sure it doesn’t leave a spot.
How long does it last?
For best quality, use within about 3 months and store away from heat and direct sunlight.
Final Thoughts
Sometimes the simplest recipes become the ones we use the most. This natural insect repellent is easy to make, smells wonderful, and gives me peace of mind knowing exactly what’s in it.
If you make a batch, I’d love to hear how you use it—whether you’re working in the garden, camping with family, enjoying an evening on the porch, or taking a walk through the neighborhood.
