DIY Mosquito Repellent Spray
A simple, effective mosquito repellent made with witch hazel and research-backed essential oils. Costs pennies per ounce, smells like an actual garden, and handles everyday backyard use beautifully.
Servings: 8 ounces
Cost: ~$0.50–$1.00 per batch
Equipment
- 8-ounce amber glass spray bottle
- Small funnel optional, helpful for pouring
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup witch hazel
- 1/2 cup distilled water
- 1 teaspoon vegetable glycerin optional
- 30 drops lemon eucalyptus essential oil
- 20 drops citronella essential oil
- 10 drops lavender essential oil
- 5 drops peppermint essential oil
Instructions
- Add witch hazel to a clean 8-ounce glass spray bottle.
- Add the essential oils and glycerin (if using). Swirl gently to combine.
- Top off with distilled water, leaving a little room for the sprayer.
- Cap tightly and shake well.
- Patch test on the inside of your forearm and wait 15 minutes before applying broadly.
- Use within 4–6 weeks for best potency. Store in a cool, dark place. Shake well before every use.
Notes
Glass bottle is important. Essential oils can degrade certain plastics over time. Amber glass is ideal. It also blocks the light that breaks down oils faster.
Shake before every use. Oils and water don't truly mix. A quick shake right before spraying is what keeps the formula working.
Reapply every 60–90 minutes. Essential oils don't last as long as commercial repellents. Plan for a reapplication or two on a long evening outside.
Substitutions: If peppermint feels too strong, reduce to 2–3 drops. No lemon eucalyptus on hand? Double the citronella and add 10 more drops of lavender.
For children: Do not use lemon eucalyptus on children under three. Use a lower-concentration blend for older kids.
Pregnancy: Consult your doctor before use. Some essential oils are not recommended during pregnancy or while nursing.
Know its limits. This spray is ideal for casual backyard use (i.e., cookouts, patio dinners, quick yard work.) For hiking, camping, travel to high-risk areas, or long stretches outdoors at peak mosquito hours, reach for an EPA-registered repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or refined oil of lemon eucalyptus.
