As summer rolls around, so do the inevitable backyard gatherings, BBQs, and unfortunately, the bugs. Whether you’re dealing with pesky mosquitoes, gnats, or other insects, there’s nothing quite like the annoyance of having your outdoor fun ruined by a swarm of unwanted guests.
Luckily, Nana’s got a dead simple trick that can help you keep the bugs at bay. Best of all, it’s cheap, easy to make, and requires just a few items you likely already have or can easily get online. Here’s how it works.
What You Need
To create Nana’s bug-repelling solution, you’ll need the following items:
Mason jars – You can easily find these at any grocery or craft store. They’re perfect for holding the oil mixture and wicks.
Wicks – These can be purchased from Amazon or any craft store. The wicks will soak up the oil mixture and allow it to burn slowly, releasing the bug-repelling scent.
Vegetable oil – This acts as the carrier oil for your essential oils.
Essential oils – There are about 10+ essential oils known to repel insects, so you’ve got plenty of options to choose from. Some of the most effective include lavender, eucalyptus, peppermint, lemon, tea tree, and cedarwood.
Vanilla extract – Mosquitoes absolutely hate the smell of vanilla, making it an excellent addition to your mixture.
Citronella oil – Although citronella is well-known for repelling bugs, it’s not as effective against mosquitoes. However, it’s still worth adding for extra protection.
A hammer and nail – You’ll need these to create a hole in the lid of the Mason jar.
How to Make Nana’s Bug Repellent Jars
Follow these simple steps to create your bug-repellent jars:
Prepare the Mason Jar Lids: Start by using a hammer and nail to poke a small hole in the top of each Mason jar lid. This hole will allow the wick to pass through and draw up the oil mixture.
Mix the Oil Solution: In a separate container, mix your vegetable oil with the essential oils. A good rule of thumb is to use about 10-15 drops of essential oil per 1 cup of vegetable oil. Add a few drops of vanilla extract to the mixture as well; you don’t need much, as the scent is quite potent.
Fill the Jars: Pour the oil mixture into the Mason jars, filling each jar about three-quarters full. This will ensure that there’s enough oil to keep the wick saturated, but not so much that it spills over when you insert the wick.
Insert the Wick: Thread the wick through the hole in the lid, allowing it to drop down into the oil. You’ll want to make sure the wick is fully submerged in the oil so it can absorb the mixture properly.
Soak the Wick: Allow the wick to sit in the oil for about 10 minutes before lighting. This gives it enough time to soak up the oil mixture, ensuring a consistent burn.
Place and Light: Once the wick is soaked, light it and place the jars around your backyard. The slow-burning wick will release the scent of the essential oils, creating a bug-repelling barrier around your space.
Why This Works
The secret behind this trick lies in the essential oils and the vanilla extract. Many essential oils contain natural compounds that insects find repulsive. For instance, eucalyptus and lavender are known to repel mosquitoes, while peppermint can deter spiders and ants. Adding vanilla extract into the mix makes it even more effective, particularly against mosquitoes, which are known to be especially averse to the scent of vanilla.
While citronella is a well-known insect repellent, it’s not always as effective against mosquitoes as you might think. That’s why Nana’s recipe doesn’t rely solely on citronella but includes a variety of essential oils to target a broader range of pests.
Benefits of Nana’s Bug-Repellent Jars
Eco-Friendly: Unlike chemical sprays, Nana’s bug-repellent jars use all-natural ingredients, making them safe for the environment and your family.
Affordable: The ingredients are inexpensive and easy to find, so you won’t have to break the bank to enjoy a bug-free backyard.
Customizable: You can mix and match essential oils to create your preferred scent or to target specific pests that are prevalent in your area.
Simple and Quick: This DIY solution can be whipped up in just a few minutes, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your backyard.
So, next time you’re planning an outdoor gathering, consider giving Nana’s dead simple trick a try. With just a few Mason jars, some essential oils, and a little creativity, you can create a bug-free oasis in your backyard, perfect for enjoying those warm summer nights without the buzz and bite of unwanted insects.
