When you head outside to enjoy nature, there are often biting insects waiting to delight in your company. Even if you are a mosquito magnet, you may not like the idea of spraying synthetic chemicals on yourself or your kids to repel pests. Natural bug sprays are safe and can be an effective way to repel bugs instead.

DEET is the active chemical ingredient used in many insect repellents. DEET has been found in products sold since the 1950s and an estimated one in three Americans uses a repellent containing DEET each year. DEET is generally safe if used correctly, but there are effective alternatives for those who wish to avoid it.

Most repellents that are applied to your skin have to be registered with the EPA, which means they’ve been evaluated for safety and effectiveness. The agency also evaluates some unregistered natural ingredients used as bug repellents for safety. They haven’t been tested for effectiveness. They include citronella oil, cedar oil, geranium oil, peppermint and peppermint oil, and soybean oil.

If you don’t want to spray anything on your body to repel insects, there are other natural ways to deter bugs from biting you.

Try placing plants that repel unwanted insects in your garden.
Because mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors, wear whites, khakis, and pastels.
Avoid being outdoors at dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
Make your yard less attractive to mosquitoes by eliminating standing water, using a fan, and installing bat houses.
Avoid heavily scented perfumes, soaps, lotions, and other personal care products that can attract bugs.

See recipe for home made repellent here…