6 eco-friendly ways to keep insects away this summer

Summer is here, and so are the pests! While you might be sick of getting bitten and swatting away annoying insects, the last thing you want to do is use chemical insect repellents. Why? Chemical insect repellents contain harmful and toxic ingredients. These ingredients don't just kill the insects, they are also harmful to people and the environment.

If you want to get rid of insects while protecting your health and the planet, we have a few non-toxic, eco-friendly ways to help you ward off those nasty little critters this Summer. 

Use a natural insect repellent

Eco-friendly, non-toxic insect repellent spray deters insects without causing harm to people, insects or the environment. They can typically be used indoors and outdoors, on your body, and over your clothes. Take them on hikes, camping trips, in the garden, or use them in your home! Simply Bee's Insect Repellent is natural and organic, made through sustainably-sourced local bee conservation.

You can even make your own non-toxic insect repellent using organic essential oils that keep insects at bay. Citronella, Lemon, Peppermint and Lavender are 3 of many insect repellent essential oils. Browse our range of pure essential oils and make your own blend!

Plant insect-repellent plants in your garden

This might be the most fun and therapeutic way to keep insects away. There is a wide variety of plants that fends off insects AND makes your garden look beautiful! Plant these insect-repellent plants around the perimeter of your home and garden to create an attractive and effective bug barrier.

It's important to plant a mixture of different types to repel many kinds of insects. The best plants to choose from include lavender, basil, dill, fennel, rosemary, mint, sage, citronella, garlic, lemon balm, oregano, eucalyptus, parsley and chives. However, the list goes on! Just do your research and find out which ones you want in your garden.

These plants will also help protect your veggie garden from unwanted pests. Also remember that good soil is one of the best insect repellents for your garden. There will be fewer pesky insects eating your plants when your soil is healthy!

Chopped onions

This is a really simple way to fend off unwelcome bugs. Add some chopped onion to a bowl of water and place it inside your home. If you're spending time outdoors, you can also place the bowl near to wherever you are. Give it a mix periodically to release the aroma that insects find unpleasant.

Candles and other light sources

Scented candles are a great way to keep insects away. Not only do they smell wonderful, they repel bugs! Citronella candles are the most well-known effective repellent, but other scents such as lemon and lavender do the job just as well! This lavender scented candle is made with pure essential lavender oil and lavender flowers. It creates a soothing atmosphere and also deters insects.

Not only does the scent keep insects away, light sources also help to repel certain species. It is thought that it has something to do with the way that the light reflects - insects see the light reflection and possibly think it's another insect, scaring them off. Fairy lights and LED lights work well!

Our essential oil diffusers not only allow you to take advantage of the insect
repellent properties of the essential oils, but they also have LED lights that could help to keep insects away!

Eliminate standing water from around your home

Standing water makes for an insect's ideal breeding ground. You can start by eliminating standing water from around in and around your home – this includes standing tires, buckets, kiddie pools, or any other containers that can store rainwater. Dams, ponds and lakes on your property are also a lovely maternity ward for mosquitoes and other insects, so be sure to introduce mosquito fish or introduce a small pump to keep the water moving. 

Buckets of water and tanks of stored rainwater or grey water also make great places for insects to breed and hatch their larvae. If you are storing water, make sure that the tanks are sealed. Alternatively you can add a film of oil to float on the top of the water to stop insects from laying their eggs.

Shake out and spray your curtains, bedding and cupboards

Insects absolutely love hiding among your clothing, linen, curtains, behind paintings or any clutter. Shake everything out regularly and spray these areas with natural insect repellents. Store-bought repellents often contain harmful chemicals that are toxic to the environment and your family. This Linen & Room Mist keeps insects away while being kind to both you and the environment! You can also use a natural insect repellent directly on your body, especially on exposed areas, before you go to sleep.

If you have any health-related questions, please contact us or leave a comment below for FREE advice. We always love hearing from you!