A small tin with a lid. A small coffee can, mint tin or cough drop tin would work. A clean piece of cloth or a dish sponge. 2 tablespoons vegetable oil. 2 tablespoons witch hazel (or vodka, if you don’t have witch hazel). 100 drops essential oils.

Lavender oil - lavender is considered to be particularly effective against flies. It has many other household uses as well. [1] X Research source Citronella oil - this ingredient is commonly used in candles meant to keep flies and other bugs away. [2] X Trustworthy Source National Pesticide Information Center Organization run by Oregon State University providing objective, science-based information about pests and pesticides Go to source Eucalyptus oil - another great essential oil you can use around the house for all types of purposes. [3] X Research source Peppermint oil - this is likely more effective against mosquitoes[4] X Research source but also considered to work against horse flies.

All essential oils should be diluted before use; especially if you want to apply them directly to your skin. Using an extra 1/2 teaspoon of vodka in the mixture will help preserve it for a second use.

1/2 cup witch hazel 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar 30-50 drops of essential oils. Choose any combination of citronella, clove, lemongrass, rosemary, tea tree, cajeput, eucalyptus, cedar, catnip, lavender, or mint.

You can use this formula on most clothing as well. Test on a small section first to make sure it won’t discolor the fabric. Do not spray this on children or pets without verifying the safety of the oil involved. For example, tea tree oil is very toxic to cats. [6] X Research source Remember, never apply undiluted essential oil to your skin. Make sure you mix it with a carrier liquid to dilute it first.

Keep extra oil in a small vial so you can apply it again when necessary. Applying undiluted essential oils directly onto skin (even lavender or tea tree oil) can result in sensitization, which means that you may become so sensitive to the oil that any contact will cause skin irritation. [7] X Research source