How to Use Cedar Oil as an Insect Repellent

Cedar oil, which is extracted from the bark of cedar trees, is a safe and natural insect repellent that is particularly effective against fleas. By mixing pure cedar oil with other types of natural oils, such as citronella and lemongrass oil, you can repel mosquitoes as well.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Cedar oil
• Citronella or lemongrass oil
• Rubbing alcohol
• Distilled water
• Spray bottle

1. Purchase pure cedar oil to use as an insect repellent throughout your home. When diluted with rubbing alcohol or distilled water, and poured into a spray bottle, cedar oil can be applied on carpeting, furniture and anywhere you might find flea activity. Cedar oil in spray bottles can usually be found at your local pet store.

2. Mix cedar oil with lemongrass or citronella oil to create an insect repellent that will work equally on mosquitoes and fleas throughout your home. You can use a mixture of these oils to double the duration of the repellent, since each oil used independently can lose its potency after just 1 to 2 hours.

3. Add a few drops of cedar oil to your pet's shampoo for a natural way to combat fleas and other parasites from spreading in your home. Cedar oil, when used in moderation, is a very safe and natural way to keep insects away from your pets, and to hide odors as well. You can also place a few drops of cedar oil underneath the cushions of your pet's bed for extra protection against fleas and mosquitoes.

4. Use your spray bottle of cedar oil to apply the solution on your clothing just before you go outside. While diluted cedar oil is generally safe to use on most fabrics, you may want to test a small area of clothing first to find out whether the cedar oil will cause a stain. Squirting a drop or two into pockets might be effective as well.

5. Ensure that cedar oil doesn't get into your mouth, eyes or nose when you apply it as an insect repellent, and use caution when applying cedar oil on small children, who may be tempted to taste or lick the aromatic substance. While cedar oil is generally safe to use externally, internal consumption could cause illness.

Tips & Warnings

• When using cedar oil to repel mosquitoes, take time to remove or replace standing water on your property. Bird baths, wading pools and your pet's water bowl should be emptied and cleaned at least every other week.