Mosquitos are irritating and often unwanted pests, biting at any exposed skin they come across. Many resort to using insect repellents on a regular basis. These sprays are common types of bug repellent and are chemical-based, containing DEET, citronella oil or other such chemicals in order to ward off insects. Unfortunately, some find that these chemicals can be bothersome in various ways, but there are some natural alternatives which also protect against insects. As you know, the bugs are out in full force this summer. But the bugs aren’t just unwanted nuisances. Mosquitos can carry diseases such as West Nile Virus, EEE and elsewhere. You should do your best to protect yourself by using an insect repellent. It’s also a good idea to keep mosquitos away from you in addition to chemically repel them.

Natural Repellent

Dog Fleas and Ticks

Avoid using flea and tick products on your dog. While these products can be effective, they come with health risks and are known to cause illness in dogs. Many of the natural repellents can be as effective as chemical ones, so there’s no reason why you should use these harmful chemicals on your pet.

Essential oils are a good alternative to chemical-based insect repellents. Some of the best essential oils include lavender oil, cedarwood oil, citronella, lemongrass, rosemary, tea tree or eucalyptus oils—they’re all great for keeping pests away from your pup!

Cat Fleas and Ticks

• In a small bowl, mix together the peppermint essential oil and water until fully blended.
• Spray your cat with the mixture in evening when you will be able to keep them indoors for at least 2 hours. This allows time for the spray to dry before they go outside. You can also spray them while they are inside, but this is not as effective because of their fur acting as insulation against the smell of the repellent.
• Avoid spraying near their eyes and mouth if possible, as it can irritate their sensitive skin and mucous membranes.

Outdoor Ants

• Outdoor Ants: As mentioned above, ants are highly attracted to grease, sweetness and protein. To keep them away from your food and off of your personal belongings, try mixing one part water with one part vanilla extract and spraying it on the areas that are problematic. You can also use a natural bug spray like citronella oil or peppermint essential oil.
• If you have carpet, sprinkle cinnamon on it before vacuuming up the powder so that it will repel ants for several days after vacuuming.
• Another way to deal with outdoor ants is to put orange peels around the area where they tend to roam; this will discourage them from returning again soon!

Mosquitoes

Mosquitoes are a problem during the summer, especially if you’re spending time outside. The mosquitoes can carry diseases that can make you sick, so it’s important to keep them away from your body. Mosquitoes are attracted to certain smells, such as sweat or blood. To stop mosquitoes from smelling you:

• Use insect repellent spray on exposed skin and clothing before going outside in areas where mosquitoes are common. Most sprays contain DEET (diethyltoluamide), which is effective at repelling mosquitos for up to 12 hours per application. Reapply every few hours when going out into the woods or another outdoor area where there may be more mosquitos present than usual. If using a different type of repellant other than DEET-based products, follow instructions carefully for proper use and safety precautions.* Avoid wearing scented lotions around your wrist and neck—these areas tend to get sweaty during hot weather, making them attractive targets for hungry pests looking for a meal.* Wear long sleeves and pants when possible; this helps protect vulnerable areas like your wrists and ankles from chomping mouths.* Use bug screens over doors and windows whenever possible; screens keep away unwanted intruders such as flies while still allowing fresh air into rooms without letting in bugs who just want nothing more than some fleshy snacks!

Natural Repellent

Natural repellent

This is a safe and natural alternative to chemical-based bug sprays. It’s simple to make and contains ingredients that are readily available at your local drug store. Here’s how you make it:

• 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of water (optional)

Mix these two ingredients in a small bowl or cup until well blended, then apply to the areas of your skin where mosquitoes like to bite (elbows, ankles and back of knees). You can also spray this on your clothing using an atomizer bottle filled with water before heading outside for the day!