DIY Bug Repellent For You & The Kids This Summer
If you are looking to repel bugs away from you and your kids fun outside there are plenty of recipes and here are a few to help you. Most of these recipes use spices and other ingredients to help you and your kids from getting bitten up by bugs this summer, so if you are interested in making some of these make sure to check your pantry or closet for these ingredients. Also another note is that all of these recipes are found at wideopeneats.com, more here.
First, this recipe has been around for a while and it only involves four ingredients, most of which you probably have. The recipe involves: 15 drops lavender essential oil, ¼ cup vodka (150 proof grain vodka or something in that range you can also use Witch hazel or rubbing alcohol as a substitute). ¼ cup water (boil the water first before using as it will free from other things that might be in it), 3-4 tablespoons lemon juice, 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract (bugs apparently hate vanilla). Also optional: 1 Tablespoon of Glycerin (can also use coconut oil, or olive oil)
After you mix this together the best way to spread it is in a spray bottle.
Another recipe involves spices, you might want to check through your recipe cabinet cause not sure you may have all of these. The recipe involves: 2 Tablespoons of each of the following; chopped fresh lavender flowers, chopped fresh rosemary, chopped fresh mint, chopped fresh sage, chopped fresh marjoram, chopped fresh anise hyssop, 4 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed, 1-quart white wine or apple cider vinegar, preferably raw. Next, you then combine all of the herbs and garlic and vinegar in a mason jar or something that you can cover and keep for a while. After you mix it, cover and steep for seven to 10 days. After the week or so make sure to strain the vinegar and put it in a clean jar or spray bottle. This smells great when mixed so not only will it repel bugs it will make you and your yard smell good.
You can see more recipes here.