Bug-Free Summer: Using Citronella Soap Bars and Natural Techniques

​Summer nights spent outdoors and picnics in the park can be idyllic experiences, but pesky insects can quickly turn them into itchy nightmares. Luckily, there are natural alternatives to chemical-laden bug repellents that are not only effective but also gentle on your skin.

Chemical repellents containing DEET (N,N-Diethyl-3-methylbenzamide) can irritate the skin, especially for children and those with sensitive skin. Natural repellents, on the other hand, utilize plant-based ingredients like citronella, lemongrass, peppermint, and cedarwood oil. These essential oils not only repel insects but also provide a pleasant fragrance. Additionally, some natural repellents contain ingredients like witch hazel or aloe vera, which soothe and moisturize the skin.

Natural Techniques to Enhance Bug Protection:

• Citronella Soap: ​Citronella soap bars are a natural and effective way to prevent bug bites, especially during mosquito season. These soaps contain essential oils like citronella, geranium, and other insect-repelling ingredients that help keep pesky bugs at bay. When using citronella soap bars, it's essential to lather up well during showers or handwashing to ensure proper coverage.
• Citronella soap bars are not only effective in repelling insects but also offer additional benefits for the skin. They are made with natural ingredients like coconut oil, shea butter, and olive oil, which provide moisturizing properties and leave the skin feeling refreshed and revitalized.
• Bug-Repelling Essential Oil Blends: DIY enthusiasts can create their own natural bug repellent by mixing essential oils with a carrier oil, like jojoba oil or coconut oil. Remember to dilute the essential oils properly, as they can be concentrated and irritate the skin. A good rule of thumb is to mix 10-15 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil.
• Natural Bug-repelling Spray: Create a natural bug repellent spray using essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus, and lavender. Blend these oils, then add 20 drops with 4 ounces of witch hazel in a spray bottle for an effective bug deterrent.
• Citronella Candles: Burning citronella candles outdoors can create a bug-free zone around your patio or garden area, complementing the use of citronella soap bars.  You can create your own by adding 10 drops of the mosquito-repelling blend to any unscented candle.  Burn the candle for at least an hour beforehand and add the drops to the melted candle wax.  Be sure to keep the flame away at least 1 foot away from any object.
• Smoke Bundles:  Smoke bundles deter mosquitoes by releasing aromatic smoke from burning herbs like sage, rosemary, thyme, lavender, and mint. The essential oils within these plants are released when the dried herbs are burned, creating a strong insect-repellent scent that mosquitoes dislike. This aromatic smoke confuses the smell receptors of mosquitoes, making it difficult for them to target individuals in the area. By smoldering these herb bundles in outdoor spaces like fire pits or grills, the herbal smoke acts as a natural mosquito repellent, creating a calming and soothing environment for humans while driving away pesky insects like mosquitoes  You can also bundle the herbs with string and light it in an ashtray for a more concentrated aroma.

​For added protection, consider incorporating plants that keep bugs and mosquitos away.  You may also want to plant flowers that deter deer as well..

Here are some options:

• Citronella plant: This easy-to-grow herb is a natural mosquito repellent and adds a touch of greenery to your patio.
• Lemongrass: This plant not only repels insects but also adds a lemony fragrance to your garden.
• Lavender: Known for its calming scent, lavender also repels mosquitoes, flies, and moths.
• Rosemary: This fragrant herb repels mosquitoes and other insects, and it can even be used in cooking!
• Marigolds: These brightly colored flowers deter mosquitoes, flies, and even some types of beetles.

By incorporating citronella soap bars into your daily routine and combining them with other natural bug-repelling techniques, you can enjoy a bug-free summer while keeping your skin nourished and protected.

Bugger Off! Natural Soap Bar