DIY Mosquito Repellent Spray with Essential Oils and Without Rubbing Alcohol

My Go-To DIY Mosquito Repellent Spray Recipe

The exact ingredient measurements

For one 4-ounce / 120 mL bottle, I use:

• 2 tablespoons alcohol-free witch hazel
• 2 tablespoons distilled water
• 1 tablespoon aloe vera juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vegetable glycerin
• 1 teaspoon Polysorbate 20 or another skin-safe solubilizer, used according to label directions
• 20 drops citronella essential oil
• 10 drops lavender essential oil
• 10 drops cedarwood essential oil
• 8 drops geranium essential oil

That lands close to a 2% dilution, which is a reasonable adult strength for a short-wear DEET-free bug spray.

Optional swaps

If you want a softer scent, reduce citronella by 5 drops and add 5 drops patchouli or extra lavender. If your skin hates sticky anything, skip the glycerin.

If you don’t have geranium, a small amount of lemongrass can work, but keep the scent strength in mind. Stronger isn’t always better.

A lighter everyday version

For quick porch time or casual errands, cut the essential oils in half for about a 1% dilution. That gives you a lighter mosquito repellent for skin that feels less intense.

I use that version when I’m just deadheading flowers or taking the dog out for a quick lap around the yard.

A stronger evening-use version

I don’t usually go above 2% for skin, because irritation becomes more likely. If you need stronger support, I’d rather see you layer this spray with clothing, fans, and timing tricks than keep dumping in more oil.

That combo works better anyway. Next, hit the next button below, because mixing order makes a bigger difference than most DIY recipes admit.