This weeks post is courtesy of Budget Savvy Diva. If you live in my area, mosquitoes can ruin any summer evening activity. How great would it be to protect your kids (or yourself) with homemade insect repellent?
I don’t know about you, but I’ve been bit by the BBQ bug. Memorial Day is just around the corner, but I don’t think I can wait for the official kick-off As we approach the summer months and head outdoors. for picnics and hikes, or just a Sunday stroll. Unfortunately, the insects will be out too and we’ll want to restock on bug repellent. But you don’t have to go out and buy it. You can make a DIY organic insect repellent using common household items and make Tyler Durden proud. But then again, does Tyler have your best interests at heart?
The pros:
It’s organic so it does not contain DEET which can cause irritation to the skin. Some people cite plastic’s tendency to warp after direct contact as an example of DEETs toxicity (Chemistry is a funny thing, though. Water rusts metal, but we still have to drink it*). The DIY repellent is easy to make and you may very likely already have most of the ingredients to make this work.
The cons:
It only works on some insects, you may still need the extra strength stuff if you want to avoid ticks. It’s not water proof and the active ingredient, citronella (or eucalyptus) oil can cost a pretty penny at the health food store.
Here are the ingredients:
1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
1/3 cup vodka (or witchhazel)
5 drops of citronella (or eucalyptus) essential oils
You’ll also need a spray bottle and desire a funnel. All you need to do is mix. If you have these things or are really concerned about organic products, this is a great frugal alternative to spending on a store brand. However, the essential oils alone push the cost up to about what you’d pay for the hard stuff and it’s not as effective. Whatever you choose, have a happy BBQ season!
*Don’t drink DEET.
Thanks! DIY Life for the recipe
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