Want natural mosquito repellents? Try these DIY ideas
What's the story
Mosquitoes are a huge problem in Africa, and they spread diseases like malaria. Since commercial repellents are expensive, people are looking for cheap, homemade alternatives. This blog post shares some super easy and effective natural mosquito repellent recipes you can whip up at home with stuff you probably already have on hand.
Natural essence
Lemon eucalyptus oil solution
Lemon eucalyptus oil is a natural and effective way to keep mosquitoes at bay. To make a DIY repellent, simply combine one part lemon eucalyptus oil with ten parts sunflower oil or witch hazel. You can apply this mixture directly to your skin or clothes. Please remember lemon eucalyptus oil should not be used on children under three years of age.
Smoke out
Coffee grounds burn
A slightly unusual but surprisingly effective method is to burn dry coffee grounds in a bowl. The smoke produced is a strong repellent for mosquitoes, making this a great option for outdoor gatherings. While the smell of burning grounds is typically pleasant, it also offers an eco-friendly alternative to chemical repellents, effectively minimizing mosquito activity in the area.
Pungent protection
Garlic spray mixture
Garlic's potent smell is a natural mosquito deterrent. To make a DIY spray, simmer five crushed garlic cloves in 250 ml of water for 15-20 minutes. Let it cool, strain, and transfer to a spray bottle. Mist it around your house or on outdoor plants around patios. While the initial smell is strong, it dissipates quickly, leaving you with a mosquito-free space.
Herbal Shield
Neem oil blend
Neem oil is a potent natural ingredient with insect-repelling properties. To make an effective repellent, mix neem oil and coconut oil in equal parts. Apply this mixture lightly on exposed skin areas before going outside. Not only is this blend a great mosquito repellent, but it also moisturizes the skin.
Clearing air
Camphor tablet evaporation
Camphor tablets provide a more convenient and potent indoor solution to ward off mosquitoes. Simply distribute camphor tablets in various rooms and let them evaporate naturally over time or speed up the process by dissolving them in water strategically positioned around living spaces. The intense aroma not only deters mosquitoes but also enhances indoor air quality by acting as a purifier.