Kid and Family Friendly Alternatives for Mosquito and Tick Control

 

Summer is a time for outdoor adventures, backyard barbecues, and family fun. However, it's also the season when mosquitoes and ticks are most active, posing a nuisance and potential health risk. While conventional insect repellents can be effective, they often contain chemicals like DEET that some families prefer to avoid. Fortunately, there are several kid and family-friendly alternatives for mosquito and tick control that are both effective and safer for everyone.

1. Essential Oils: Nature’s Repellents

Essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus, lavender, and tea tree oil are known for their insect-repelling properties. You can create your own natural repellent spray by mixing a few drops of these oils with water and a carrier oil like coconut oil.

Recipe for DIY Essential Oil Spray:

  • 10 drops of citronella oil
    • Plant Therapy Citronella Organic Essential Oil 100% Pure, USDA Certified Organic, Undiluted, Natural Aromatherapy, Therapeutic Grade 10 mL (1/3 oz) Paid Link: https://amzn.to/3xMT0AC
  • 10 drops of eucalyptus oil
    • Plant Therapy Eucalyptus Radiata Essential Oil 30 mL (1 oz) 100% Pure, Undiluted, Therapeutic Grade. Paid Link: https://amzn.to/3RXo87j
  • 10 drops of lavender oil
    • Plant Therapy Lavender Essential Oil 100% Pure, Undiluted, Therapeutic Grade, Aromatherapy Diffuser for Relaxation and Body Care, Healthy Skin and Hair, 10 mL (1/3 oz) Paid Link: https://amzn.to/3xX0m4n
  • 10 drops of tea tree oil
    • Plant Therapy Tea Tree Essential Oil 100% Pure, Undiluted, Natural Aromatherapy, Therapeutic Grade 10 mL (1/3 oz) Paid Link: https://amzn.to/3Sn49iL
  • 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
    • Fractionated Coconut Oil with Roller Bottles - 100% Pure Natural 16 Oz Coconut Oil, 10ml Essential Oil Roller Bottles, Caps, Funnel and Bottle Opener - Carrier Oil for Essential Oils Mixing Paid Link: https://amzn.to/4bCDAMW
    • Natural Carrier Oil - Nourishing, Lightweight and odorless - High in Vitamin E - Crafted in France- Pure & Natural - Vegan - Aromatherapy - Mix with Essential Oils for Skin Application Paid Link: https://amzn.to/4cyGOm1
  • 1 cup of water

Mix these ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well before each use. Apply to exposed skin and clothing.

Suggested Materials: Plant Therapy Citronella Organic Essential Oil 100% Pure, USDA Certified Organic, Undiluted, Natural Aromatherapy, Therapeutic Grade 10 mL (1/3 oz)

2. Garlic Spray: A Natural Deterrent

Garlic is not just great for cooking; it's also an effective mosquito and tick deterrent. The strong smell of garlic confuses these pests and keeps them away from your yard.

  • Recipe for Garlic Spray:
    • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
    • 1 quart of water

Boil the minced garlic in water for 20 minutes. Let it cool, then strain the mixture and pour it into a spray bottle. Apply the spray to your garden, lawn, and around outdoor seating areas.

3. Neem Oil: Safe and Effective

Neem oil is a natural insect repellent that is safe for children and pets. It disrupts the lifecycle of mosquitoes and ticks, preventing them from maturing and reproducing.

  • Using Neem Oil:
    • Mix 1 teaspoon of neem oil with 1 quart of water.
    • Add a few drops of dish soap to help the mixture adhere to plants.
    • Spray on plants and areas where mosquitoes and ticks are prevalent.

4. Plants That Repel Insects

Certain plants naturally repel mosquitoes and ticks. Planting these around your yard can help keep these pests at bay.

  • Insect-Repelling Plants:
    • Citronella: Known for its strong lemon scent that mosquitoes dislike.
    • Lavender: Its fragrant flowers repel mosquitoes and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.
    • Marigolds: These bright flowers contain pyrethrum, a compound used in many insect repellents.
    • Rosemary: This herb not only repels mosquitoes but can also be used in cooking.

These are pictures of my insect repelling plants. I have a scented geranium that has a citronella smell. My lavender has been struggling this time of year. And the last two pictures are of my marigolds. You can save the seed from the dead heads of your marigolds.

5. Cedar Chips: A Natural Barrier

Cedar chips are a natural deterrent for ticks. They can be spread around the perimeter of your yard, garden beds, and play areas to create a barrier that ticks are unlikely to cross.

  • How to Use Cedar Chips:
    • Spread a 3-inch layer of cedar chips around the edges of your yard and in areas where ticks are commonly found.
    • Reapply every few months or after heavy rain to maintain effectiveness.

Keeping mosquitoes and ticks at bay doesn't have to involve harsh chemicals. By using these kid and family-friendly alternatives, you can create a safer, more enjoyable outdoor environment for your family. Whether you opt for essential oil sprays, plant-based solutions, or natural barriers, these methods offer effective protection without compromising your family's health. Enjoy a bug-free summer with peace of mind!


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