When it rains here in Southern California it goes without saying that mosquitos are soon to follow. I swear there are clouds of them hovering outside and you'd be daft not to close up doors and windows before 3:30pm lest you invite them all in for an all-you-can-eat buffet. Just last evening I squashed no less than twelve mosquitos hanging out at the kitchen sink - like they were having some grand reunion of sorts. They're everywhere and I refuse to become their evening meal especially with all the mosquito-borne illnesses going around lately.
So how have I been repelling the sudden onslaught? A simple DIY bug repellent gel recipe!
How to Make a DIY Bug Repellent Gel Recipe THAT WORKS!
This recipe is quick to throw together and easy to slather on exposed areas. Since it's a gel, it won't stick to clothing as it's quickly absorbed into the skin. I love how easy it is to apply and as a plus, it smells great - not like other natural bug repellents you can find at the store. This recipe is all natural and contains no nasty chemicals (like DEET - a chemical known to damage the brain and nervous system) or ingredients.
The essential oils used in this recipe are widely disliked by biting insects and will help keep them from picking up environmental cues that they use to locate you. One of the best oils to use for this purpose that has been proven more effective than DEET is lemon eucalyptus essential oil. The only issue is it doesn't smell great (it's very similar to citronella) and can easily overpower other essential oils in the recipe. However, adding just one drop seems to do the trick in this recipe so feel free to experiment!
Here's what you need to make your own bug repellent gel:
• A 3oz squeeze tube or 4oz pump bottle
• A scant ½ cup of aloe vera gel for the 4oz size and about ⅓ cup for a 3oz squeeze bottle size
• 1TB witch hazel or vegetable glycerin for a more moisturizing effect
• 4-7 drops nature shield essential oil blend
• 2 drops tea tree essential oil
• 2 drops lemongrass essential oil
• 1 drop lemon eucalyptus essential oil or citronella essential oil
You can also sub in catnip essential oil or pure vanilla extract into the recipe though I haven't tried either of these. However, they are known to be amazing bug repellents so let me know how they work out for you if you give them a try!
Loving Preparation - DIY Bug Repellent Gel
1. In a clean glass dish, mix all of the ingredients until well combined.
2. Next, carefully funnel the gel into the squeeze/pump bottle and cap closed.
To Use
Apply a thin even layer to exposed skin before going outdoors or even when you notice a ton of mosquitos flying around your house like I did!
This gel also works really well under clothing to give you that extra boost of protection since mosquitos can reach through thin clothing like leggings and t-shirts.
Re-apply every 30 minutes or just when you notice the aroma starting to fade. I find that using a bit of vegetable glycerin helps extend the staying power of the essential oils in this recipe.
What have been your favorite all-natural bug repellents? Please let me know in the comments!
You may also enjoy:
All Natural Mosquito Repellent with Essential Oils
Marg says
How safe would this be around a toddler....2.5?
Tash says
Hi Marg!
For that age I would only use the tea tree and lemongrass 🙂 So just 2 drops each of tea tree and lemongrass in 1/2 cup of aloe vera gel.
DavetteB says
I have had good success using diluted vanilla in a spray bottle, even here in AK, where the mosquitoes show up as soon as it reaches 30F. Plus you can use it safely on faces and babies.
I'll have to try mixing it with the aloe to see if it lasts longer.
Taylor says
What might I be able to use instead of Aloe Vera gel? I'm allergic/:
Tash says
Hi Taylor!
Sorry to hear about your allergy! You can make this recipe using a carrier oil instead. Just store it in a dropper bottle for easy use. 🙂
P. says
What is the shelf life of this gel and since it has aloe vera gel shouldn't it be stored in the refrigerator?
Tash says
Hi P.!
Since aloe gel is technically considered water based, you can expect this repellant to last about a month out of the fridge. I usually make this in small batches so I have no problems going through it before any bacteria or mold start growing. In the fridge I'd expect this to last 1.5-2 month even 🙂 Of course, if the product looks or smells strange or you see bacterial growth in the product, throw it out, disinfect the container, and make a new batch.
Gerry says
What can I use other than 'purification essential oil'?
Tash says
Hi Gerry!
Purfication essential oil is just a blend of citronella, lemongrass, lavindin, myrtle, and rosemary essential oil. You can sub one of those 🙂 Just keep in mind you can't add more lemongrass as it's already at the highest dilution. Hope this helps!