Moquito bites can spread disease.
When looking for a natural alternative to harsh chemical sprays to protect your family from mosquitoes, you might turn to the citrus cleaner you already use in your kitchen. While it might help repel mosquitoes, it isn't a good option as a long-lasting insect repellent. Does this Spark an idea?
Citrus Cleaner
Citrus cleaner contains a compound called d-limonene. In the high concentrations found in cleaning compounds, d-limonene acts as a degreaser and solvent. This makes citrus cleaners a good natural option for cleaning up messes in the kitchen and bath. In high concentrations, citrus cleaners give off volatile organic compounds, or VOCs. These can cause respiratory problems in sensitive people. This makes it unwise to spray citrus cleaners around yourself to repel mosquitoes.
Alternatives
D-limonene repels insects including mosquitoes. For a safe natural mosquito repellent, you need to find an alternative source for the compound. Orange peels and other citrus rinds contain d-limonene. You can infuse water with the insect repellent by bringing water to boil on the stove. At the same time, chop up a few lemons or oranges. Place them in a bowl and pour the boiling water over them. Let the mixture sit until the water is cool, and strain the water into a spray bottle. It is infused with d-limonene in safe concentrations.
Use
To keep mosquitoes away, spray the citrus-infused solution on outdoor furniture before you head to the backyard. With its light scent, you might enjoy spraying it on your clothing or beach towel, as well. It is mild enough to be sprayed directly onto your skin, although you should keep it away from your eyes as it could sting. Reapply the spray to outdoor areas every five days to keep the concentration of d-limonene high enough to continue to repel mosquitoes.
Considerations
The citrus spray can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, which puts you at an increased risk for sunburn. If you apply it directly to your skin, avoid spending time in the sun. The spray will lose its strength over time. Only make as much as you can use in a few weeks. After about 20 days, discard any of the mixture that is left and create a new batch. When using a citrus cleaner in your home, try to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid over-exposure to the VOCs.
Tags: citrus cleaners, repel mosquitoes, your skin, citrus cleaner, Citrus Cleaner, d-limonene high