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More people are heading outside now that the weather is getting warmer, sunnier, and more pleasant. Springtime means that the birds are returning to their summer homes and the bugs are starting to come out in full force. Unfortunately, this also means that pesky mosquitoes are coming out in droves and they’re all looking for fresh blood. The way they swarm and buzz in enough to drive anyone crazy and their bites are just downright itchy and uncomfortable.
However, the worst thing they care capable of is spreading dangerous, sometimes even deadly, diseases. One bite is all it takes for a mosquito to transfer a virus to a person and many people end up with severe infections like malaria, Zika Virus, Chikunhunya, West Nile Virus, Eastern Equine Encephalitis, Yellow Fever, and more.
While chemical sprays and store bought repellents do work to a degree, they usually smell disgusting and are packed full of harsh, toxic ingredients that can irritate skin and cause difficulty breathing. A good rule of thumb is that you should try to avoid spraying DEET on yourself if possible, and fortunately there is a natural alternative you can use to keep mosquitoes away. It’s simple, gentle, and smells good, plus it’s effective and you can make it right in your own kitchen.
The simple 3 ingredient recipe for the homemade repellent was shared by YouTube channel HouseholdHacker in the accompanying video. Their tutorial on how to make it is informative and easy to follow so be sure to check it out. Here is a list of what you’ll need and steps on how to make it:
Ingredients:
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 30 drops of lemon-eucalyptus oil
– 4 ounces of either rubbing alcohol, witch hazel, or vodka
Instructions:
1. Measure out each ingredient
2. Mix them all together
3. Transfer into a small spray bottle
4. Spray on yourself before going outside and reapply every 4 hours as needed
This non-toxic formula can be sprayed anywhere on your body, skin, on clothing, and even in hair. For that last ingredient listed above, witch hazel is preferred because it’s the least harsh on skin and won’t dry it out like alcohol-based ones tend to. Mix up a few bottle of the repellent so you can toss one in your car or bag, that way you’ll always be safe and covered wherever you go.
In the end, this natural spray will definitely make summer much more enjoyable. You won’t have to constantly be slapping at mosquitoes or itching bites, and that makes it worthy of your time and attention so try it out and see how you like it!
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