Natural Tick Repellent Spray (Safe for Kids and Pets)

Unless you live somewhere that stays cold year-round, chances are you’ve started thinking about ticks the moment the snow melts. Spring brings so much goodness: Longer days, fresh air, kids playing outside more, but it also brings that underlying worry, especially when you have kids.

I don’t remember ticks being something we talked about growing up. It was never a conversation in our home, and I don’t recall my parents checking us after we played outside. But now, it feels like a very real part of parenting. Something we can’t ignore. My natural tick repellent spray is not a guarantee, but can help with peace of mind for your family while they enjoy the outdoors.

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My First Tick Experience

I remember the first time I found a tick on my son. He had been playing at the park, happily jumping into a pile of leaves, and the next night at bath time, I noticed it, right on his head, buried in his thick blonde hair. I completely panicked. I called my husband in tears, unsure of what to do and honestly afraid to even touch it. I managed to pull it out in tact with tweezers, but it was a terrifying experience in the moment.

Now, things look very different in our home. Checking for ticks has become part of our daily rhythm during the warmer months, especially after time in the woods, tall grass, or leaf piles. It’s just one of those small habits that brings peace of mind. There are even tick removal kits you can buy that make removal less stressful if one does make its way onto anyone’s skin.

Do natural repellents actually work?

With spring approaching again, making a natural tick repellent has been top of mind for me. In my experience, homemade insect sprays do work, but they aren’t as long-lasting as options that contain deet. You do need to reapply them more often. And yes, it can feel a little inconvenient in the moment. But for me, it’s a trade-off I’m willing to make.

Our skin is incredibly absorbent, especially our children’s. Reducing the amount of synthetic chemicals we’re spraying directly onto their bodies is something that matters to me. Even if that means taking an extra minute to reapply before heading back outside.

What Supplies do I need to make a spray at home?

I already had all of these supplies on hand this year when I was ready to make mine. If you do not, they are all good base items to have on hand for other non-toxic living recipes, so they will not go to waste.

Glass Spray Bottle – I would personally not use plastic, especially if you leave it outside and it heats up a bit. You do not want plastic leaching into your non-toxic spray (defeats the purpose really). Amber coloured bottles are the best, so the essential oils are kept as dark as possible.

Apple Cider Vinegar – Easy to find at grocery store and online. Can also be used for delicious and healthy salad dressings.

Essential Oils – Eucalyptus, Cedarwood & Peppermint. I trust NOW and Viva Doria brands for my skin. Find a brand you trust. All essential oils are not suitable for your skin. Do not use fragrance oils!

What is the cost to make this recipe?

The total cost to make this recipe for 16oz. is approx. $7 US/$9 CDN and even less if you have your some of your own ingredients and/or a glass bottle. I’ve seen similar products online retail for $15 -$30 CDN.

How to Use Spray

Shake well before each use. Spray onto clothing, shoes, and exposed skin before heading outdoors. For the best protection, focus on areas like ankles, legs, arms, and around the neckline. Reapply every 1–2 hours while outdoors. Apply more frequently after swimming, or sweating. Because this is a natural, non-toxic spray, consistent reapplication is key to keeping ticks away.

For children, spray onto your hands first, then gently apply to their skin. Avoid eyes, mouth, and open cuts.

Extra Reassurance

Another thing worth mentioning, if you have the space for it, is chickens. When we had free-roaming chickens, we didn’t deal with ticks in our yard at all. Not one. The kids could run barefoot through the grass and play freely without the same level of concern.

That said, it’s not always a perfect solution. We learned that the hard way when predators took our chickens during the day last year, which was honestly devastating for our family. If we go that route again, I think the balance will be letting them roam while we’re outside and keeping them safely enclosed the rest of the time. We’ve also talked about the idea of a livestock guardian dog as a longer-term solution.

For now, this simple spray is one of the easiest ways we can support our family while still enjoying time outdoors.

If you enjoyed making your own spray, check out my other non-toxic living recipes.

I’d love to hear how it works for your family 🤍