I LOVE the summer weather, but apparently so do bugs. Living in an apartment, on the first floor, and in the summer can be an uphill battle protecting my fortress from pesky insects. I live in a heavily wooded area and have noticed that just walking to my mailbox puts me at risk for receiving at least one mosquito bite. I've also noticed black ants making their way into my living room. While my cat seems to enjoy her new found company, I have invested in cans of raid and ant traps to ward off these pests. For the most part they do a pretty good job of killing the insects, while spewing a ton of chemicals in the air. However, it doesn't stop the ants from coming back. As far as the mosquitoes are concerned, when I know I'm going to be outside for an extended amount of time I reach for my off spray although walking around smelling like insect spray sucks.
I needed something chemical-free and that actually works, so I tried the following repellents and I loved the results. I encourage you to try the below DIY repellents, and let me know how it goes!
Mosquito Candle Repellent
Supplies:
3 lemon slices
3 lime wedges
sprigs of Rosemary
water
lemon eucalyptus oil (7-10 drops)
floating tea candles
mason jar
Directions:
Slice your lemon and lime. Place them and the sprigs of rosemary in a mason jar.
Add your lemon eucalyptus oil.
Fill the rest of the jar with water.
Light a floating tea candle and place it in the jar.
Place the mason jar nearby at your next BBQ to enjoy a mosquito free outing. I recommend letting the candle burn for at least 30 minutes prior to relying on it for protection.
Mosquito Spray Repellent
Supplies:
10 drops lemon essential oil
10 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
5 drops of peppermint essential oil
1 tsp of rubbing alcohol 91%
6 oz of water
1 fine mist spray bottle
Directions:
Mix the ingredients in a spray bottle.
Apply to the skin for use.
Click here for DIY mosquito relief remedies.
Ant Repellent:
Supplies:
2 cups apple cider vinegar (ACV)
2 tb dish soap
2 tb baking soda
water
spray bottle
Directions:
Mix all contents in a spray bottle.
Note the baking soda and ACV cause a foaming reaction, so add these ingredients together slowly.
Click here for more ways to rid your home of ants.
Do you have any DIY insect repellent tricks up your sleeve? Share them below, or in our forum.
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