4 Easy DIY Insect Sprays with Kitchen-Safe Ingredients
Say goodbye to harsh chemicals and hello to simple, natural solutions! These DIY insect sprays are made from ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen or pantry. They’re safe, effective, and easy to whip up in minutes.
1. Ant Spray
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder
Instructions:
- Mix water and vinegar in a spray bottle.
- Add cinnamon powder and shake well.
- Spray along countertops, kitchen corners, door frames, and window sills.
Tip: Ants hate strong scents like vinegar and cinnamon—focus on entry points and ant trails.
2. Cockroach Spray
Ingredients:
- 1 cup vinegar
- 1 teaspoon borax (handle with care)
- 5 drops clove essential oil (or ½ tsp clove powder)
Instructions:
- Mix vinegar and borax in a spray bottle.
- Add clove oil or powder.
- Shake thoroughly before use. Spray in hidden areas like under the sink, behind the stove, and baseboards.
Tip: Borax is natural but not edible—keep out of reach of pets and kids.
3. Bed Bug Spray
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon diatomaceous earth (food grade)
Instructions:
- Add diatomaceous earth to the water and shake vigorously.
- Lightly mist onto mattress seams, bed frames, and carpet edges.
- Shake before each use to prevent settling.
Safety Note: Do not breathe in the powder—wear a mask while spraying or let it settle before re-entering the room.
4. Mosquito Spray
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 10 drops lemongrass essential oil
- 10 drops citronella essential oil
Instructions:
- Mix everything in a spray bottle.
- Shake well before each use.
- Spray around windows, doors, and light sources where mosquitoes tend to gather.
Tip: This spray doubles as a room freshener with a refreshing citrus scent.
Bonus Tips:
- Use glass spray bottles for essential oils—they’re more stable and last longer.
- Label each bottle with the ingredients and use instructions.
- Store in a cool, dark place to maintain potency.
- Always spot-test surfaces before wide application.