How To Make Apple Cider Vinegar Bug Repellent

Apple cider vinegar has been hailed as a natural remedy for various everyday issues for a long time. Its countless benefits range from weight loss and skincare to home cleaning and even bee sting removal. Many people swear by its effectiveness. Apple cider vinegar, also known as ACV, is a natural product that you might already have in your kitchen. It is made by fermenting apple sugars, which results in the creation of acetic acid. This key component is responsible for the numerous benefits associated with ACV.

One of the uses of apple cider vinegar is as an insect repellent. Due to its strong smell and acidic nature, it acts as an effective deterrent against insects such as mosquitoes, flies, and ants. You can apply it directly to your skin or use it in a spray form to disperse the smell around your outdoor living space. 

Unlike harsh chemicals found in commercial insect repellents, apple cider vinegar is non-toxic and safe for the environment. Sounds great, right? So, let’s look at how to make it.

Gathering the Ingredients: What You’ll Need for the DIY Repellent

Distilled water: Distilled water is the best kind to make your repellent as it doesn’t contain any impurities that could alter the effectiveness of your mixture.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Make your own apple cider vinegar or choose a raw, organic brand that has the mother (floaty bits) in it.

Essential oils: Numerous essential oils have repellent properties against various bugs, including mosquitoes, flies, ants, spiders, and bed bugs. Peppermint, citronella, lavender, eucalyptus, lemon, clove, tea tree, and cedarwood are among the widely used and effective options, so choose which suits your personal preference. I love lemon, tea tree, and eucalyptus or lavender.

Preparing the Apple Cider Vinegar Bug Repellent Solution

You Will Need

• 1/2 a cup of distilled water
• 1/2 a cup of apple cider vinegar
• 50 drops of insect-repelling essential oils (I used a blend of lemon, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil)

Method:

Step 1: Add the distilled water to a glass jar.

Step 2: Add the apple cider vinegar.

Step 3: Add the essential oils.

Step 4: Whisk to combine.

Step 5: Apply with a cotton ball or transfer to a spray bottle. Shake well before each use.

Storing and Using the Repellent Effectively

Apple cider vinegar repellent should last two years or so if stored in a cool and dry place. It can also be kept in the refrigerator if you live in a hot and humid climate. I apply mine by dipping cotton balls into the mix and swiping it over my skin, but you could also add it to a spray bottle and spritz it onto your skin or in problem areas of your household where bugs gather. 

Safety Considerations

Apple cider vinegar and some essential oils can cause a reaction in some individuals, so it is important to patch-test your mix before use.  If you experience any irritation, discontinue use immediately. Do not apply the repellent near your eyes or open wounds.

If you plan on using the apple cider vinegar repellent on children or pets, consult a healthcare professional first, as their skin may be more sensitive. 

Reapplication and Maintenance: Keeping Bugs at Bay

While apple cider vinegar can be an effective natural insect repellent, it is essential to remember that it may not provide as much protection as store-bought chemical repellents. For maximum effectiveness, it is recommended to reapply this DIY repellent every 1-2 hours.

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