As your family enjoys outdoor activities this summer, protecting against mosquitoes is essential. Using mosquito repellent reduces your risk of West Nile virus and other diseases while ensuring you can savor the season. Even indoors, it's wise to use repellent, particularly at dusk or after sunset.
Products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus are especially effective and long-lasting. Beyond repellent, additional precautions like wearing long sleeves, using mosquito netting, and eliminating standing water near your home can further reduce mosquito exposure.
Want to save money and avoid harsh chemicals? You can make your own mosquito repellents at home with these simple recipes:
DIY Mosquito Repellent Recipes
Garlic Mosquito Repellent
There’s a reason garlic is said to repel vampires—mosquitoes hate it too!
Ingredients:
- Minced garlic
- Mineral oil
- Lemon juice
- Cheesecloth
Directions:
1. Mince a few cloves of garlic and soak them in mineral oil for 24 hours.
2. Remove the garlic chunks and mix the oil with 2 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and pour it into a spray bottle.
Lemon Eucalyptus Mosquito Repellent
Ingredients:
- Lemon eucalyptus oil
- Sunflower oil or witch hazel
Directions:
Mix 1 part lemon eucalyptus oil with 10 parts sunflower oil or witch hazel. Apply directly to your skin or transfer the mixture to a spray bottle for easy use.
Lavender Mosquito Repellent
Lavender does more than smell delightful—it’s also a natural mosquito repellent. Rub lavender flowers on your wrists, neck, and behind your ears to ward off pests. Planting lavender in your yard is another great option for long-term mosquito control.
What Are Your Ideas?
Do you have your own tricks for avoiding mosquitoes in the summer? Share your tips in the comments below!
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