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How to Make DIY Mosquito Repellent

Lowe's Editorial Team

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Published January 18, 2025

When planning an outdoor gathering, mosquitoes are often a common concern. To keep them at bay, some people prefer using a DIY mosquito repellent as a natural alternative over store-bought ones.

Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

  • Essential oils - Lemon eucalyptus oil

  • Boiled or distilled water

  • Witch hazel

Steps to Make DIY Homemade Mosquito Repellent

​Creating your own mosquito repellent at home is a simple process that not only keeps mosquitoes away but also uses natural ingredients. Follow the provided steps carefully to make your DIY mosquito repellent.

Best Natural Mosquito Repellent

You can also use other natural ingredients such as mosquito repellents. Here are some of the best natural mosquito repellents for your DIY solution.

Lavender

Lavender is a great mosquito repellent as its crushed flowers create a fragrance and oil that repels mosquitoes. Lavender also has analgesic, antiseptic and antifungal properties that calm and soothe the skin after a mosquito bite.

Lemon Eucalyptus Oil

Lemon eucalyptus oil has been used since the 1940s as a natural mosquito repellent due to the presence of citronella in it. This oil is effective in repelling yellow fever mosquitoes.

Thyme Oil

Thyme oil is one of the best natural mosquito repellents. When thyme is burned, it emits a scent that offers protection against mosquitoes for around 60 to 90 minutes.

Cinnamon Oil

Cinnamon helps get rid of itchy and red skin that is caused by mosquito bites and can help repel adult mosquitoes and Asian tiger mosquitoes.

Tea Tree Oil

When compared to other oils, tea tree oil is a great natural mosquito repellent known for its antiseptic, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Some lotions and sprays containing tea tree oil can help keep your home protected from biting midges, bush flies and mosquitoes.

FAQs

What is the best homemade mosquito repellent?

One of the best homemade mosquito repellents is made with lemon eucalyptus oil. To make it, combine 10 drops of lemon eucalyptus oil with two tablespoons of water hazel.

How long does a DIY mosquito repellent last?

A DIY mosquito repellent that is made at home provides around 2 hours of protection from mosquitoes.

How often should you reapply a repellent?

This depends on certain factors such as outdoor temperature, damp environments, etc. If you start to notice mosquito bites or if you have been outdoors longer than expected, it’s best to reapply the repellent to maintain adequate protection.

What clothing helps protect against bites?

White, khaki, or full sleeves work best to protect you against mosquitoes, while keeping you cool and stylish.