Are bugs ruining your outdoor fun? Me too! Finding a good bug spray can be hard, but don’t worry I can help.
In this article, We will explore 15 easy DIY bug spray ideas. These are simple to make and use. Say goodbye to annoying insects and enjoy your time outside again!
DIY Bug Spray
These are the best DIY bug spray ideas that you can make at home.
1. Lemon Eucalyptus Bug Spray
If you’re looking for a natural yet effective way to keep bugs at bay, a Lemon Eucalyptus Spray is a fantastic option.
You can make this spray by combining lemon eucalyptus oil, known for its powerful insect-repellent properties, with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil.
Mix about 10-15 drops of lemon eucalyptus oil with two tablespoons of your chosen carrier oil and add it to a small spray bottle.
Fill the rest with water, shake well, and your bug spray is ready to use.
2. Lavender and Tea Tree Oil Bug Spray
Lavender and tea tree oils are a dynamic duo when it comes to repelling insects.
To make this spray, combine 10 drops of lavender oil and 10 drops of tea tree oil with a quarter cup of witch hazel.
Add a quarter cup of water, mix well, and pour it into a spray bottle. Shake before each use to ensure the oils are well-distributed.
This spray is fantastic for evenings spent outdoors, keeping the bugs away while you relax and unwind.
3. Citronella and Peppermint Bug Spray
Citronella and peppermint oils are well-known for their bug-repelling properties, and together, they create a powerful spray.
Mix 10 drops of citronella oil and 10 drops of peppermint oil with two tablespoons of vodka (which helps disperse the oils) in a spray bottle.
Fill the rest with water, shake well, and your bug spray is ready. I find this spray incredibly effective for keeping mosquitoes and flies at bay.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar Bug Spray
Apple cider vinegar is a household staple with numerous uses, and making a spray is one of them.
To create this spray, mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle.
Add 10 drops of essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus for added potency and a pleasant scent. Shake well before each use.
This spray is incredibly effective against a variety of bugs, and I love how it’s made with simple, natural ingredients that I always have on hand.
5. Herbal Bug Spray with Basil and Rosemary
For a more herbaceous approach to bug repellent, try making a DIY spray with basil and rosemary.
Boil a cup of water and steep a handful of fresh basil and rosemary leaves for about 30 minutes. Strain the herbs, let the water cool, and pour it into a spray bottle.
Add 10 drops of your favorite essential oil, like lavender or eucalyptus, for extra repelling power.
This spray smells amazing and is very effective against a variety of insects. I enjoy making this one because it’s so natural and aromatic.
6. Garlic and Mineral Oil Bug Spray
Garlic is not just for cooking it’s also a powerful insect repellent.
To make a garlic spray, blend a few cloves of garlic with a cup of water, strain, and add a tablespoon of mineral oil.
Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and add more water to fill it up. Shake well before use.
This spray might not have the most pleasant smell, but it’s highly effective in keeping bugs at bay.
I recommend using it in the garden or other outdoor areas where the scent won’t be an issue.
7. Essential Oil and Witch Hazel Bug Spray
Combining the powers of essential oils and witch hazel creates a potent bug spray that’s easy to make and gentle on the skin.
Choose your favorite essential oils I like using a mix of lavender, tea tree, and citronella.
Add 10 drops of each to a spray bottle, along with a quarter cup of witch hazel and a quarter cup of water.
Shake well before each use. This spray is perfect for outdoor activities.
8. Lemon and Vanilla Extract Bug Spray
Lemon and vanilla extract may sound like ingredients for a dessert, but they also make an effective bug spray.
Combine the juice of one lemon with a teaspoon of vanilla extract and a cup of water in a spray bottle.
Shake well before each use. This spray has a delightful scent and works wonders in keeping bugs away.
I often use this spray when I’m hosting outdoor gatherings, as it smells lovely and provides great protection against insects.
9. Neem Oil Bug Spray
Neem oil is a natural pesticide that’s incredibly effective against a wide range of insects.
To make a neem spray, mix two teaspoons of neem oil with a teaspoon of liquid soap in a spray bottle.
Add a quart of water, shake well, and your bug spray is ready. This spray is particularly effective in the garden, keeping pests away from plants.
10. Coconut Oil and Peppermint Bug Spray
Coconut oil combined with peppermint oil makes a soothing and effective bug spray.
Mix a quarter cup of melted coconut oil with 10 drops of peppermint essential oil in a spray bottle.
Add a quarter cup of water, shake well, and you’re good to go. This spray is great for skin and hair, providing a protective barrier against insects.
I find this spray particularly useful during beach trips, as it also helps to keep my skin moisturized.
11. Clove and Lavender Bug Spray
Clove and lavender oils together make a powerful repellent. Mix 10 drops of each oil with a quarter cup of witch hazel in a spray bottle.
Add a quarter cup of water, shake well, and your spray is ready. This combination not only repels insects but also has a pleasant, calming scent.
12. Eucalyptus and Lemon Bug Spray
Mix 10 drops of eucalyptus oil and 10 drops of lemon oil with two tablespoons of witch hazel in a spray bottle.
Fill the rest with water, shake well, and you have a refreshing and effective bug spray.
This spray is particularly good for mosquitoes, and I find it perfect for evening walks or outdoor dinners.
13. Basil and Clove Bug Spray
Combine 10 drops of each oil with a quarter cup of witch hazel in a spray bottle. Add a quarter cup of water, shake well, and your bug spray is ready.
This combination not only repels insects but also has a warm, spicy scent that I find quite pleasant.
I like using this spray during camping trips, as it’s strong enough to keep even the most persistent bugs away.
14. Cedarwood and Lavender Bug Spray
Cedarwood and lavender oils create a soothing and effective bug spray.
Mix 10 drops of cedarwood oil and 10 drops of lavender oil with a quarter cup of witch hazel in a spray bottle.
Add a quarter cup of water, shake well, and you’re all set. This spray is great for keeping mosquitoes and other insects at bay, and the calming scent of lavender.
15. Lemon Balm and Peppermint Bug Spray
Lemon balm and peppermint essential oils are a refreshing and powerful combination for a bug spray.
Mix 10 drops of each oil with a quarter cup of witch hazel in a spray bottle. Add a quarter cup of water, shake well, and your bug spray is ready.
This spray is particularly effective against mosquitoes and flies, and the invigorating scent of peppermint is a bonus.
I love using this spray during summer picnics and barbecues, as it keeps the bugs away while adding a refreshing aroma to the air.
Jose M. Lemon is a prolific writer and enthusiastic DIY enthusiast with a deep passion for all things related to do-it-yourself projects. With an extensive background in crafting and building, Jose has dedicated his career to exploring and sharing innovative DIY ideas across various platforms.