• Add all ingredients to a glass spray bottle.

  Shake well before each use.

  Spray on exposed skin, clothing, hats, or gear.

  Reapply every 2–3 hours or after swimming.

Why These Ingredients Matter

• Witch Hazel

  Acts as a natural carrier for the essential oils so they apply more evenly. It’s gentle on the skin, dries quickly, and can feel refreshing on warm days.

  Glycerin or Vodka

  Vegetable glycerin helps the scent cling to your skin a little longer while adding a touch of moisture. Coconut-derived glycerin is a great natural option.

  Vodka helps disperse the essential oils and dries quickly, making the spray feel lighter on the skin.

  Rose Geranium Essential Oil

  One of the most popular essential oils used in homemade bug sprays. It has a pleasant floral scent while helping discourage mosquitoes and other biting insects.

  Lemon Eucalyptus or Citronella Essential Oil

  These are the primary insect-repelling oils in this recipe. Lemon eucalyptus is especially well known for helping repel mosquitoes, while citronella has long been a favorite natural choice for outdoor use.

  Lavender Essential Oil

  Adds a fresh scent and is traditionally used to help soothe and comfort the skin.

  Tea Tree Essential Oil

  Tea tree oil is best known for supporting healthy skin because of its natural cleansing properties. While it isn’t as effective a repellent as lemon eucalyptus or citronella, it may provide a little extra insect-deterring benefit and can be a nice addition if you do get an occasional bug bite.

  Glass Bottle Only, Please

  Essential oils can break down certain plastics over time, potentially causing unwanted odors and chemical leaching. Store your bug spray in a glass bottle—amber or cobalt blue is best—to help protect the essential oils from sunlight and keep the spray fresh longer.