It’s summertime! And who doesn’t love outside summer fun?! Yes, there can be some drawbacks, but basically, it’s fun! Fresh air, sunshine, no school, playing in the sprinklers, swimming in the pool (or a lake if you’re so inclined), hanging out with friends, campfires, S’mores… the list could go on, but it boils down to this ~ it’s fun!

So what can ruin that fabulous fun? Outside summer pests. Creepy, crawly, flying, biting pests (no, not ladybugs, they’re an exception, as my daughter would tell me). Bug spray is helpful for those who enjoy the great outdoors. What is not great is about bug spray, however, is that all the harmful chemicals that are used to kill those pests are also harmful to us. Basically, we’re spraying poison on our skin ~ our biggest organ. And yes, what we put on us, we put in us. No thank you!

Safely Protected

There is a safe alternative to commercial bug spray… make your own! There are numerous ways that nature offers protection from pests ~ typically in the form of specific plants, and in this case, the essential oil obtained from plants. Plants that are natural pest repellents include Basil, Catnip, Cedarwood, Citronella, Chamomile, Garlic, Geranium, Lavender, Lemongrass, Marigold, Peppermint, Rosemary, Eucalyptus, and more.

There are many different recipes available for making your own comfort spray. Typically, a base of vodka, witch hazel, or apple cider vinegar is used with distilled water. Then you add whatever extras you prefer. I have found that using vodka (cheap, don’t spend money on the “good stuff”) is my preference. Also, most of the recipes I’ve found are for small amounts, but I prefer to make up a large bottle and transfer to a smaller bottle as needed (less work that way). Here is my favorite recipe:

DIY Outdoor Comfort Spray

~ 2 Cups Vodka (or Witch Hazel)
~ 2 Cups Distilled Water
~ 25 Drops Purification EO
~ 15 Drops Peppermint EO
~ 15 Drops Cedarwood EO
~ 15 Drops Citronella EO

Add to amber or dark blue spray bottle and you’re done! Shake and use as needed. Easy-peasy! 🙂