Say Goodbye to Summer Pests with Essential Oils You Probably Already Own

When summer hits Hawaii, it’s not just the sun that comes out to play—it’s the pests too. Mosquitoes buzzing at your barbecue, ants threatening your picnic, and cockroaches giving you the side-eye from your slippers (yes, we’ve all been there). But this summer, it’s time to fight back with something you probably already have tucked away in a drawer or cupboard. Remember those essential oils you bought during the Doterra craze? No judgment; we ALL stocked up. The good news is, those little bottles of lemony, minty, and lavender goodness can finally be put to proper use. And no, it’s not for making your laundry smell amazing—it’s for keeping the pests out of your life.

Quick Facts About Pests in Hawaii

Before I get to the DIY tricks, here’s a glimpse of what we’re up against. Hawaii’s warm, tropical climate means pests are basically on vacation every day. Here are three major culprits you’re likely battling:

• Mosquitoes – Need I say more? They’ll turn a family beach day into an itchy nightmare.
• Ants – They never miss a potluck or picnic, uninvited but persistent.
• Cockroaches – Fast, fearless, and somehow always in the kitchen, stealing your midnight snack vibes.

But don’t worry. Essential oils are not just for aromatherapy—they’re about to be your secret weapon.

DIY Essential Oil Solutions for Common Pests

Here’s how to turn those forgotten oils into effective, natural deterrents for Hawaii’s usual suspects.

1. Mosquito Repellent with Lavender and Peppermint

Mosquitoes hate strong smells, so blend lavender and peppermint oils into a homemade spray. Bonus points—both oils smell amazing, so you won’t mind spritzing yourself.

What You’ll Need:

• 10 drops of lavender oil
• 10 drops of peppermint oil
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon witch hazel (to help it mix)

Pro tip: Remind the mosquitoes you're here for the good vibes, not their bites.

How to Use:

Mix the ingredients in a spray bottle, shake well, and spray onto your skin or clothing before heading outside. And just like that, aloha 'oe mosquitoes.

2. Ant Deterrent with Lemon and Tea Tree Oils

Ants might march one by one, but they’ll scatter like tourists in a rainstorm when they smell lemon or tea tree.

What You’ll Need:

• 10 drops of lemon oil
• 7 drops of tea tree oil
• 1 cup of water

How to Use:

Combine these into a spray bottle and spritz the mixture along ant trails, windowsills, and kitchen counters. Boom—no more ants sneaking into your snacks. Plus, your home will smell like a refreshing citrus grove.

Local Tip: It’s like making a lei for your house—except this lei says, “No trespassing, ants.”

3. Cockroach-Repelling Eucalyptus Infuser

Cockroaches are tough, but even they can’t handle a eucalyptus ambush.

What You’ll Need:

• 10 drops of eucalyptus oil
• Cotton balls

How to Use:

Place a few drops of eucalyptus oil on cotton balls and tuck them into problem areas such as under the sink, in cabinets, or around baseboards. Cockroaches will head for the hills—or, more likely, your neighbor’s yard.

Pro Tip: If they don’t pay rent, they don’t stay—it’s a Hawaiian house rule.

Why Essential Oils Are Perfect for Local Families

I get it—Hawaii life means enjoying the outdoors and staying as eco-friendly as possible. Unlike chemical-based sprays, essential oil solutions are safe around kids, pets, and that one friend who insists on having snacks right next to the citronella candles. Plus, creating DIY blends is way cheaper than fumigating your house or buying fancy commercial repellents.

Also, these solutions come with an extra perk—a nostalgic moment when you pull out the unopened essential oil kit you bought at that Doterra meeting your aunt dragged you to. Who knew your stash from 2015 would be this summer’s MVP?

Essential Oils: Your Secret Weapon for a Pest-Free Honolulu Home

If you’re tired of sharing your Honolulu home with unwanted guests, essential oils are your golden ticket to a pest-free summer. They’re simple to use, smell fantastic, and give those long-forgotten bottles a chance to shine (finally). Whether you’re spritzing mosquitoes, fending off ants, or telling cockroaches to take a hike, these DIY hacks will keep your ohana bug-free and happy.

Now turn up the aloha, grab those oils, and show the pests who’s boss. Happy oiling—and goodbye, creepy crawlies! For more tips and tricks, follow my blog and keep your home happy and pest-free year-round!