Citronella Spray Recipe

• Citronella keeps bugs away from humans and animals, so make enough spray to cover you and your family as well as your pet. Combine 1 cup of water with 1 tbsp. of eucalyptus oil, 1 cup of bath oil, 3 tbsp. of citronella oil, and 2 cups of vinegar. Shake well inside a spray bottle. In regions with large pest infestations, add a couple more drops of citronella oil to increase repellency. If you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors, make extra spray for a later application. As the repellent wears off, you will notice an increased sensitivity to bugs and that may signify that it's time for a second coat of spray.
  
  

Application

• Spray the solution on your skin and clothing, avoiding the face, before spending time outdoors. Administer the spray in a well-ventilated room or, more preferably, outdoors. Have children cover their face while you apply the spray and encourage them to avoid touching their face afterward; especially their eyes or mouth. Some of the ingredients may cause stinging in the eyes. Wash all clothes that came in contact with the citronella spray immediately following use.
  
  If you notice skin irritation, stop use immediately and clean the area with soap and water. Citronella is derived from cultivated grasses, so it has little to no toxicity, but your skin may still react adversely (see Reference 1).
  
  Apply the spray to all surfaces of your pet except the face. Consider laying a towel over your pet's face if he will allow you, as you spray the insect repellent. Because a pet's skin is covered by thick hair, you may not notice any physical irritation. If your pet begins to scratch or gnaw at an area, it may indicate a discomfort as a result of the formula. Wash your entire pet as soon as you notice irritation and discontinue using the formula on him.