Keep those pesky bugs away this year with this perfect DIY peppermint oil for bugs recipe! Free of toxic ingredients, this recipe is so simple and easy to make and it smells great too!
We’ll also share some of our favorite insect repellent blends for adults and children as well a diffuser blend.
Why Use A Natural Bug Repellent?
A natural bug repellent offers a safer alternative to the chemical-laden bug repellents on the market. Using non-toxic ingredients are safer on your clothing and skin.
How Do Natural Bug Repellents Work?
Plants have natural defenses to protect themselves from harmful invaders like fungus, bacteria, and insects.
The naturally occurring oils contained in the leaves, stems, bark, wood, and flowers of some plants help to keep the plants healthy. These are the essential oils!
When used safely and applied properly, essential oils can repel insects just as effectively as any commercial insect repellent.
DIY Peppermint Oil for Bugs Recipe
Use this peppermint essential oil spray around your home, patio, garage, etc. Not only does it smell awesome, but it also repels so many insects including ants, aphids, bed bugs, boxelder bugs, cockroaches, fleas, fruit flies, gnats, and no-see-ums, lice, moths, spiders, ticks, and weevils.
What you’ll need:
- 4 oz spray bottle
- Distilled water
- 40-50 drops of Peppermint essential oil
Fill the spray bottle with distilled water almost to the top. Be sure to leave enough room for the essential oil and the sprayer. Add the essential oil and shake gently.
Favorite Essential Oil Blends Bug Spray for Adults and Children:
For Kids 10+ and Adults:
- 15 drops lemongrass + 15 drops eucalyptus + 20 drops citronella
- 20 drops rosemary + 20 drops cedarwood + 10 drops peppermint
- 15 drops eucalyptus + 20 drops lavender + 15 drops lemongrass
For Kids 3+ and Adults:
- 10 drops lemon eucalyptus + 10 drops lavender
- 10 drops lavender + 10 drops citronella
- 8 drops lavender + 5 drops geranium+ 7 drops cedarwood
Directions: Fill half of the 4oz spray bottle with distilled water and half with witch hazel. Leave a little room at the top for the essential oils and sprayer top. Shake well before using. Spray on clothing and exposed skin. Avoid spraying into the eyes.
Diffuser Blend for Bugs:
- 4 drops of Lemongrass essential oil
- 3 drops Clove Bud essential oil
- 3 drops Cinnamon Bark essential oil
For other great essential oil recipes, check out Aromatherapy For Life!