How to Make All Natural Bug Repellent that is Safe for Kids and Pets

Natural bug repellent is a camping necessity over the summer. From mosquitoes to flies and everything in between, the summertime bugs are a nuisance for kids and pets. Unfortunately, most Deet based repellents (which work well) are not safe for use on kids and pets and should be avoided. So how do you make a natural bug repellent that is safe for kids and pets, and actually works to repel the bugs?

Begin with a base spray such as soy bean oil or you can always take the easy route and use Avon Skin So Soft. The Skin So Soft is a great base for use as the bugs already seem to stay away from it and it also makes your skin feel really soft when you put it on so you are already getting double duty from this spray. Pair it with one or more additional natural ingredients that the bus will hate to get a spray repellent that works super duty!

Additional Ingredients to Add: 1 or more of these ingredients will help to create a bug repellent concoction that is all natural and will work great. Mix and match with what you have on hand or ingredients that you are able to find readily available at the local store. You may also find that you like the smell of one ingredient over another and in this case you can choose based on smell preference.

Lemongrass Oil: Comes from a perennial grass that grows very quickly in India. In addition to being an insect repellent this oil is also great for use as a revitalizer and to boost the nervous system.

Geranium Oil: These plants originated in South Africa, Egypt and Morocco but have since spread to European countries as well. In addition to repelling mosquitoes and lice this oil can also be used to treat skin ailments such as acne and eczema.

Catnip Oil: Catnip oil can be used to help keep mosquitoes at bay but it is not a 100% method for insect repellent. While catnip does not work as effectively as Deet as reported by the United States Department of Agriculture but it can be used as a natural alternative to deet that will help in the repellent of bugs.

Citronella Oil: Citronella comes from a naturally growing grass in Sri Lanka and is commonly used in many types of repellant candles and sprays. Citronella also works good to relieve colds when burned close by.

Tea Tree Oil: Tea Tree oil has numerous uses around the house and outside. It works great to repel bugs and it is also soothing to the skin. Try dropping a few drops of tea tree oil into your shampoo to create a dandruff remedy that is all natural.

Jojoba Oil: Jojoba Oil comes from a plant and is a great insect repellent. In addition to keeping the bugs away, this oil can also be used to give hair a lustrous shine when added to shampoo. Jojoba oil smells good too!

Sources:

www.essentialoils.com

www.usda.gov