Natural Bug Repellents: The Best Essential Oils to Keep Insects Away
As spring arrives, so do mosquitoes, flies, and other pests. Instead of using chemical-laden sprays, why not opt for natural, plant-based alternatives? Essential oils have powerful insect-repelling properties, offering a safe and eco-friendly way to keep bugs at bay.
Whether you're looking for natural mosquito repellent candles, DIY bug sprays, or ways to keep your outdoor space pest-free, this guide will explore the best essential oils for repelling insects naturally.
Why Use Essential Oils for Insect Repellent?
Using essential oils for bug repellent is a great alternative to synthetic sprays because they are:
✔ Non-toxic & safe – Ideal for families, pets, and the environment.
✔ Pleasant-smelling – Unlike harsh chemicals, they add a refreshing scent.
✔ Multi-purpose – Many aromatherapy oils also offer calming, antibacterial, or energising benefits.
The Best Essential Oils to Keep Insects Away
1. Citronella – The Classic Mosquito Repellent
One of the most well-known natural insect repellents, citronella oil is widely used in candles and sprays to ward off mosquitoes.
✔ Best for: Mosquito repellent, indoor & outdoor areas
✔ How to use: Burn a citronella & lemongrass candle, or mix with water for a DIY spray.
2. Lemongrass – Fresh & Bug-Repelling
Lemongrass has a citrusy scent that naturally deters mosquitoes and flies while also uplifting your mood.
✔ Best for: Mosquito & fly repellent
✔ How to use: Light a lemongrass candle on patios or near windows.
3. Peppermint – Cooling & Bug-Deterring
Peppermint’s sharp, minty aroma repels spiders, ants, and mosquitoes while adding a refreshing scent to your space.
✔ Best for: Spiders, mosquitoes, ants
✔ How to use: Mix with water for a natural bug spray, or diffuse indoors.
4. Eucalyptus – Powerful Mosquito Protection
Eucalyptus oil, particularly lemon eucalyptus, is a strong, long-lasting mosquito repellent. It’s also great for respiratory health.
✔ Best for: Mosquito repellent
✔ How to use: Apply diluted oil to the skin or add to a natural wax candle.
5. Lavender – Gentle Yet Effective
Lavender has a calming scent that humans love, but mosquitoes, moths, and fleas hate! It’s a great multi-purpose essential oil.
✔ Best for: Mosquitoes, moths, fleas
✔ How to use: Apply to skin, pillow sprays, or outdoor candles.
6. Tea Tree – Antibacterial & Insect-Repelling
Tea tree oil has antibacterial properties and is excellent for keeping bugs, lice, and ticks away.
✔ Best for: Ticks, flies, lice
✔ How to use: Mix into lotions, sprays, or room diffusers.
How to Use Essential Oils for Insect Protection
Here are some simple ways to incorporate natural bug repellents into your daily routine:
✔ Use Aromatherapy Candles – Our Citronella & Lemongrass candle naturally repels insects while creating a refreshing atmosphere.
✔ Make a DIY Bug Spray – Mix 10 drops of essential oil with water and witch hazel in a spray bottle.
✔ Diffuse Oils Indoors & Outdoors – Use an essential oil diffuser to keep your space bug-free.
✔ Apply to Clothing & Skin – Dilute oils with a carrier oil (like coconut oil) and apply to exposed skin.
Natural Candles for Bug-Free Spring Evenings
If you’re looking for an effortless way to repel insects, try our Citronella & Lemongrass coffee cup candle. Made with a natural rapeseed & coconut wax blend, this eco-friendly candle not only keeps mosquitoes away but also provides a fresh, citrusy scent for outdoor gatherings.
Final Thoughts: Ditch the Chemicals & Go Natural
Essential oils offer a safe, non-toxic way to repel insects while enhancing your home with beautiful, refreshing aromas. Whether you choose citronella, peppermint, lavender, or eucalyptus, incorporating these natural bug repellents into your daily life will help you enjoy spring and summer without pesky insects!
Shop our natural insect-repelling candles today and enjoy a bug-free season!