Keeping mosquitoes away can be difficult, depending on the climate.
There are few things that can put a damper on a pleasant summer evening outdoors quite as effectively as the swarming of mosquitoes. While many commercial solutions exist to keep these annoying pests out of your yard, most contain chemicals or run on the expensive side. Instead, try a home remedy made from safe essential oils and ingredients found in your kitchen to repel mosquitoes. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Peel and mince 10 large garlic cloves. Press them with a kitchen knife to bruise the minced pieces, which helps them release more juice.
2. Heat a solution of one cup water and one cup vinegar in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil on high heat then reduce it to low heat to simmer.
3. Add the garlic clove pieces to the simmering liquid. Cook for 10 minutes. Turn off the heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.
4. Strain the liquid into a spray bottle using a wire strainer and funnel.
5. Add several drops of lavender oil to the bottle. The exact amount you need varies depending on the strength of the oil you have, but err on the side of strong; the lavender scent is not only a deterrent for mosquitoes, but it is also more pleasant to humans than the vinegar and garlic smells.
6. Pour about a quarter tsp. of dish soap into the bottle; this helps the oil and water stay mixed.
7. Top off the bottle with vinegar and cap it. Shake well.
8. Spray the solution in the yard. Pay special attention to the perimeter of your yard and any areas with standing water, lots of shade or small ponds, as these are prime locations for mosquitoes. Use the entire bottle, spraying generously. Repeat applications of this remedy every few days to retain effectiveness.
Tags: your yard