BITE BACKWarm weather usually means longer days, picnics, swimming and ... mosquitoes. Naturally, we think of bug spray as a quick and simple remedy, but those bug sprays lining the aisle in your local drugstore might cause more harm than good.

Warm weather usually means longer days, picnics, swimming and ... mosquitoes. Naturally, we think of bug spray as a quick and simple remedy, but those bug sprays lining the aisle in your local drugstore might cause more harm than good.

A third of the US population uses DEET, a widely used ingredient found in bug sprays. While it does repel bugs, it also can cause blisters, rashes and soreness. Not only that, but DEET is toxic to birds and aquatic life.

Roll up those sleeves and try your hand at a couple of these DIY safe bug repellent alternatives:

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Materials

2 spray bottles (any size will do)	Essential Oils
Witch Hazel	Vanilla Extract

Directions

• Option 1: Add 2 tsp of vanilla extract to the water-filled spray bottle. You might smell like a baked good, but you'll keep the mosquitos at bay!
• Option 2: Fill the spray bottle with equal parts of water and witch hazel, then add 10 drops of essential oil. You can add more or less essential oil at your discretion. We recommend citronella, lemon grass, lavendar or eucalyptus—mosquitos hate these scents!