Mixing baby oil with cloves is a popular homemade remedy that many people use as a natural insect repellent. It’s simple, inexpensive, and easy to prepare—but it’s important to understand both how it works and its limitations.
Here’s how the mixture is typically made:
- Take about 30–35 ml of fragrance-free baby oil (or even olive oil as an alternative)
- Add 5–6 whole cloves
- Gently warm the oil (do not boil it)
- Let it cool, then store it in a dark glass container
- Leave it to infuse for 10–15 days
- Strain before use
Once ready, people lightly apply it to exposed skin or around areas where mosquitoes tend to gather.
Why people use it
Cloves contain natural compounds like eugenol, which may help repel insects, while the oil acts as a base that keeps it on the skin longer.
Some users say:
- It has a pleasant, warm scent
- It feels moisturizing on the skin
- It can help reduce mosquito bites in low-risk settings
What you should know before using it
Despite the hype (“you’ll never use anything else”), it’s not a miracle solution.
- Its effectiveness varies from person to person
- It may not last as long as commercial repellents
- It is not strong enough in areas with high mosquito-borne disease risk
Always:
- Do a patch test before applying it widely
- Avoid using it on sensitive or irritated skin
- Keep it away from eyes and mouth
The honest bottom line
This mixture can be a gentle, natural alternative for casual use—like sitting outside in the evening.
But for serious protection (especially in areas where mosquitoes carry diseases), it’s best to rely on clinically tested repellents.
Sometimes simple remedies work surprisingly well…
But the smartest approach is knowing when they’re enough—and when they’re not.