5 Low Tox Ways To Keep Bugs Away
Summer comes with great weather and tons of fun, but we don’t need the bugs eating our ankles and ruining the fun. Unfortunately, traditional bug sprays can contain harmful chemicals. A few years ago, I found an old bottle of OFF in my bag and it had eaten away at the plastic. From then on, I started making my own and using these tips. The truth and problem with most bug sprays is that none are 100% effective and need to be applied more often than you think! So keep that in mind no matter what route you go!
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Here are my top 5 tips for helping keep the bugs away this summer!
#1: Get a fan: I know this seems simple, but it is really the only way to keep bugs moving along when you are trying to enjoy your outdoor space. We use good old fashioned box fans on our patio. Or you can get an oscillating fan. Set them up by your seating or next to a food table. Bugs can’t land when there is airflow. Plus, this keeps it cool!
#2: Get an outdoor diffuser: I love this one, or we often use this battery powered base to take the Aria outside. We will also put the diffuser in front of the fan so it blows the scent around. The best oils for diffusing outside are lavender, citronella, peppermint, or lemongrass. You can do just one or a combo of them. Here is a link to summer favs!
#3: Make your own bug off:
Try this recipe for DIY bug off spray! Make sure to reapply every 30 minutes.
DIY Bug Off:
2 oz bottle
10 drops each citronella, lemongrass, peppermint, lavender
Fill half with witch hazel and half with water
Shake before each use. You can also spray on outdoor furniture!
#4: Use citronella oil straight up. You can add a drop to your wrists or ankles. We also like to put diffuser bracelets on the kids ankles with a few drops of citronella. Works like a charm!
#5: Plant a bug free garden pot! Lavender, citronella, and peppermint work great in a planter near the patio. They naturally repel insects, smell great, and look very nice too! Other plants you can use: marigolds, lemongrass, cat mint, cat nip, rosemary, and basil. I used one of these pots and it’s so cute!
If you do get a bug bite, make sure to have this roller on hand. I make them for each kid and Joe and I keep them on our bedside tables too. Bug bites are always the worst when you’re trying to sleep, so it’s great to have it ready.
