Are you looking for a natural and effective way to keep mosquitoes and flies at bay? This DIY repellent uses herbs and ethanol to create a safe, pleasant-smelling solution that repels insects without harmful chemicals. Here’s how you can make your own natural mosquito and fly repellent at home.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon of dry lavender
1 tablespoon of dry lemon balm
100 ml of 96% ethanol
1 whole lemon
400 ml of water
Instructions:
Preparation:
Start by thinly slicing the lemon and placing the slices in a clean, dry jar.
Add the dry lavender and lemon balm to the jar with the lemon slices.
Adding Ethanol:
Pour 100 ml of 96% ethanol into the jar. The ethanol acts as a solvent to extract the essential oils from the lemon and herbs, which are active against mosquitoes and flies.
Infusion Time:
Seal the jar tightly and leave it in a place you pass by often, such as a kitchen counter or a shelf in the living room.
Shake the jar gently whenever you remember to do so over the next 4 days. This helps mix the ingredients and enhances the extraction process.
Dilution:
After 4 days, open the jar and add 400 ml of water to dilute the mixture. This step makes the repellent safer to use around the home and reduces the intensity of the ethanol smell.
Use:
Strain the solution to remove all solid particles and pour the liquid into a spray bottle.
Spray around doorways, windows, and other areas where flies and mosquitoes are common. You can also use it outdoors in places like patios or decks.
Benefits of Using This Natural Repellent:
Safety: Free from synthetic chemicals, this repellent is safe for use around children and pets when used as directed.
Effectiveness: Lavender and lemon balm are known for their natural insect-repellent properties. Their scents are pleasant to humans but repulsive to mosquitoes and flies.
Eco-Friendly: This repellent does not harm the environment, offering a sustainable option compared to commercial repellents.
Conclusion:
Creating your own natural mosquito and fly repellent is a simple, eco-friendly way to enjoy your indoor and outdoor spaces without the annoyance of pesky insects. This homemade solution not only keeps the bugs away but also fills the air with a pleasant herbal aroma, making it a perfect addition to any home.