Dealing with pesky horse flies can quickly turn a relaxing day outdoors into a frustrating experience. Luckily, we’ve found a simple and effective solution that combines the power of Skin So Soft with natural ingredients to keep those biting insects at bay. This DIY horse fly spray recipe is easy to make and safe for both you and your animals.
Skin So Soft has long been praised for its insect-repelling properties, and when paired with essential oils, it creates a potent shield against horse flies. Whether you’re out riding, gardening, or just enjoying the fresh air, this spray helps you stay bite-free without harsh chemicals. Let’s dive into this tried-and-true recipe that’s perfect for anyone looking for a natural alternative to commercial repellents.
Ingredients for Horse Fly Spray With Skin So Soft
To make our effective horse fly spray with Skin So Soft, we carefully select ingredients that boost the natural insect-repelling properties of the base formula. Each component plays a crucial role in enhancing protection while maintaining safety for both people and animals. Below is the detailed list of what we need:
Essential Ingredients List
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Avon Skin So Soft Bath Oil | 1 cup | Acts as the base with proven bug-repellent traits |
| Witch Hazel | 1 cup | Helps dilute and disperse oils for even spraying |
| Tea Tree Essential Oil | 15 drops | Natural antimicrobial and insect deterrent |
| Lavender Essential Oil | 10 drops | Calming scent with repellent properties |
| Eucalyptus Essential Oil | 10 drops | Strong natural repellent against biting flies |
| Distilled Water | ½ cup | Adds volume and lightness to the spray |
Important Notes on Ingredients
- Skin So Soft provides a moisturizing barrier that irritates horse flies and other biting insects, making it our spray’s foundation.
- Witch hazel not only thins the mixture but also soothes the skin, preventing irritation from prolonged outdoor exposure.
- Our choice of essential oils is deliberate for maximum synergy and effectiveness. Each oil adds a unique insect-repelling effect and enhances the fragrance.
- Using distilled water avoids impurities that might reduce spray longevity or cause clogging in spray nozzles.
Equipment Needed
To create our Horse Fly Spray Recipe with Skin So Soft, having the right equipment ensures a smooth and efficient process. Here’s what we need to gather before starting:
- Measuring cups and spoons
Precise measurements are crucial for the correct balance of ingredients.
- Mixing bowl or large glass measuring cup
Allows us to combine ingredients easily without spills.
- Funnel
Helps pour the mixture neatly into the spray bottle without waste.
- Spray bottles (preferably amber glass or BPA-free plastic, 8 oz or larger)
These bottles protect the oils from sunlight and make application easy and even.
- Stirring utensil (non-metal spoon or stick)
We avoid metal to prevent reaction with essential oils.
- Labeling materials (marker or printed labels)
Important for identifying our homemade spray and noting the date made.
- Small bowl (optional)
To blend essential oils before adding to the main mixture for even distribution.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Measuring cups & spoons | Measure precise quantities of each ingredient |
| Mixing bowl/glass cup | Combine ingredients thoroughly |
| Funnel | Pour mixture into bottles without spilling |
| Spray bottles (8 oz) | Store and apply the horse fly spray |
| Stirring utensil | Mix ingredients evenly without contamination |
| Labeling materials | Identify and date the spray |
| Small bowl (optional) | Pre-mix essential oils before adding |
By having these items ready, we ensure our horse fly spray is mixed properly and stored safely, maintaining its insect-repelling effectiveness and skin-so-soft benefits.
Prep Work
Before we blend our Horse Fly Spray Recipe with Skin So Soft, it is crucial to prepare all ingredients and tools meticulously. This ensures a smooth mixing process and maximum effectiveness of the spray. Follow these step-by-step instructions to get started:
- Gather and Measure Ingredients
Use precise measurements for each ingredient to maintain the spray’s balanced formula. Arrange the ingredients on a clean surface in the order they will be added:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Avon Skin So Soft Bath Oil | 1 cup (240 ml) | Base with moisturizing barrier |
| Witch Hazel | ½ cup (120 ml) | Diluent and skin soother |
| Tea Tree Essential Oil | 10 drops | Natural insect repellent |
| Lavender Essential Oil | 10 drops | Calming fragrance and bug deterrent |
| Eucalyptus Essential Oil | 10 drops | Repels horse flies |
| Distilled Water | ½ cup (120 ml) | Prevents clogging and dilutes |
- Prepare Equipment
- Select a non-metal mixing bowl to avoid chemical reactions with essential oils.
- Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- Have a funnel ready for easy transfer into spray bottles, preferably amber glass or BPA-free plastic.
- Ready a non-metal stirring utensil (wooden or silicone).
- Prepare labels and a marker to date and identify your finished spray.
- Clean Work Area
Wipe down surfaces and ensure hands are clean to maintain hygiene and preserve the spray’s purity.
- Safety Checks
Double-check all essential oils for freshness and ensure none are expired. Keep essential oils out of direct sunlight before mixing to retain potency.
As we proceed, these prep steps guarantee that our Horse Fly Spray with Skin So Soft will be both functional and skin-friendly, ready to provide effective protection against horse flies and other biting insects.
Instructions for Making Horse Fly Spray With Skin So Soft
Follow these clear steps to create an effective horse fly spray using Skin So Soft and natural ingredients. We ensure accuracy and safety for a reliable insect-repelling solution.
Mixing the Base Ingredients
- Prepare your workspace. Clean your surface and gather all materials to maintain hygiene.
- Measure the base liquids precisely:
- 1 cup of Avon Skin So Soft Bath Oil
- ½ cup of witch hazel
- ½ cup of distilled water
- Combine the liquids in a large mixing bowl using a non-metal stirring utensil. Stir gently but thoroughly to create a uniform base.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Avon Skin So Soft Bath Oil | 1 cup | Moisturizing base and insect barrier |
| Witch Hazel | ½ cup | Dilutes mixture and soothes skin |
| Distilled Water | ½ cup | Keeps solution effective and clog-free |
Adding Essential Oils and Repellents
- Carefully measure the essential oils to maintain balance and enhance repellent potency. Add:
- 15 drops of tea tree essential oil
- 15 drops of lavender essential oil
- 10 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
- Add oils to the base mixture slowly.
- Stir steadily to fully integrate the oils. Remember, these essential oils not only repel horse flies but also provide a pleasant natural fragrance.
“Essential oils are powerful; using the correct amounts ensures safety and effectiveness.“
| Essential Oil | Drops | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Tea Tree Essential Oil | 15 | Insect repellent, antiseptic |
| Lavender Essential Oil | 15 | Calming scent, insect deterrent |
| Eucalyptus Essential Oil | 10 | Strong repellent, refreshing aroma |
Final Blending and Bottling
- Give the mixture a final stir to ensure all ingredients blend into a smooth solution.
- Using a funnel, pour the spray carefully into clean amber glass or BPA-free plastic spray bottles for storage.
- Seal the bottles tightly and label them with the date and contents.
- Store the spray in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to preserve its potency.
“Pro Tip: Shake the bottle well before each use to keep the ingredients evenly mixed.“
By following these steps precisely, our homemade horse fly spray with Skin So Soft will remain effective and safe for daily use.
Directions for Using the Horse Fly Spray
To maximize the effectiveness of our DIY Horse Fly Spray with Skin So Soft, it is essential to apply and use it correctly. Follow these directions carefully to ensure both you and your horse stay protected from biting insects all day long.
Application Tips for Horses
- Apply generously to your horse’s exposed areas where flies and horse flies commonly bite, such as the neck, chest, legs, and under the belly.
- Use a clean spray bottle and hold it approximately 6 to 8 inches away to ensure an even mist coverage without saturating the coat.
- Avoid spraying directly into the horse’s eyes, nostrils, or open wounds to prevent irritation.
- For best results, apply the spray early in the morning and late afternoon when horse flies are most active.
- If your horse is active outdoors, reapply every 4 hours during peak fly seasons or after heavy sweating or rain.
- Always allow the spray to dry naturally before riding or grooming to let the protective oils form an effective insect-repelling barrier.
“Consistent application is key to keeping pesky horse flies away while maintaining skin health with the moisturizing benefits of Skin So Soft.”
Safety Precautions and Skin Sensitivity
- Before the first full application, perform a patch test on a small area of your horse’s skin. Wait for 24 hours to check for any adverse reactions like redness or irritation.
- The formulation is safe for most horses, but discontinue use if you notice excessive itching, swelling, or discomfort.
- Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes for both horses and humans.
- Store the spray in a cool dark place and keep it out of reach of children and pets.
- Because this spray contains essential oils, which can be photosensitive, avoid prolonged sun exposure immediately after application to prevent skin sensitivity or irritation.
- If using on other animals, consult with a veterinarian first, especially for sensitive or allergic pets.
| Safety Tips Summary | Details |
|---|---|
| Patch Test | Apply on small area, wait 24 hours before full use |
| Avoid Sensitive Areas | No spray in eyes, nostrils, or open wounds |
| Storage | Keep in cool, dark place away from children and pets |
| Photosensitivity Warning | Avoid prolonged sun exposure after application |
| Veterinary Consultation | Recommended for use on animals other than horses |
By following these precise directions, we ensure our homemade horse fly spray stays effective, safe, and gentle for daily use on our equine companions.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
To maximize the effectiveness and longevity of our Horse Fly Spray Recipe With Skin So Soft, proper make-ahead preparation and storage are essential. Here’s how we ensure our homemade spray stays fresh and potent for every use.
Make-Ahead Preparation Steps
- Prepare the spray in small batches to maintain freshness and potency. Larger quantities can lose their effectiveness over time due to essential oil volatility.
- Use only fresh, high-quality essential oils to guarantee powerful insect-repelling properties.
- Always work in a clean, dry environment to avoid contamination that can shorten shelf life.
- After mixing, allow the spray to rest for at least 24 hours. This resting period lets the ingredients blend and strengthens the overall formula.
Proper Storage Guidelines
To preserve the blend’s insect-repelling power and moisturizing benefits, follow these storage tips carefully:
| Storage Factor | Recommendation | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Container Type | Use amber glass or BPA-free plastic spray bottles | Protects against light degradation and chemical leaching |
| Seal | Keep spray bottles tightly sealed | Prevents evaporation and contamination |
| Storage Location | Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight | Maintains essential oil integrity |
| Temperature | Keep between 50°F and 70°F (10°C – 21°C) | Avoids breakdown of oils and base ingredients |
Pro Tip: Label each bottle with the date of preparation and contents to track usage and freshness easily.
Shelf Life and Usage Tips
- When properly stored, our Horse Fly Spray With Skin So Soft remains effective for up to 3 months.
- Always shake well before each use to remix any separated ingredients ensuring consistency in application.
- If you notice any change in smell, color, or appearance, discard the batch and prepare a fresh one.
- For ultimate safety, avoid pre-mixing more than needed for one fly season.
By adhering to these Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions we can enjoy a reliable, safe, and potent DIY horse fly spray ready whenever we need it.
Conclusion
Crafting our own horse fly spray with Skin So Soft and essential oils offers a natural and effective way to keep pesky insects at bay. With the right ingredients and careful preparation, we can create a safe solution that protects both us and our horses without relying on harsh chemicals.
By following proper storage and usage tips, this DIY spray remains a reliable companion throughout fly season. It’s a simple step toward a more comfortable outdoor experience for everyone involved.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main ingredient in the DIY horse fly spray?
The main ingredient is Avon Skin So Soft Bath Oil, which acts as a moisturizing base and helps repel biting insects naturally.
Are the essential oils in the spray safe for horses?
Yes, the essential oils like tea tree, lavender, and eucalyptus are safe when used in recommended amounts and properly diluted, making the spray gentle for horses.
How often should I apply the horse fly spray?
Reapply the spray every four hours during peak fly seasons to maintain effective protection against horse flies.
Can I store the horse fly spray for a long time?
Yes, store the spray in amber glass or BPA-free plastic bottles, in a cool, dark place. It remains effective for up to three months if stored properly.
Do I need to do a patch test before using the spray?
Yes, performing a patch test on a small area of the horse’s skin helps ensure there are no allergic reactions before full application.
What equipment do I need to make this horse fly spray?
You’ll need measuring cups and spoons, a mixing bowl, a funnel, spray bottles (preferably amber glass or BPA-free plastic), a non-metal stirring utensil, and labeling materials.
How do I prepare the spray mixture correctly?
Combine 1 cup of Skin So Soft, ½ cup witch hazel, and ½ cup distilled water, then add 15 drops each of tea tree and lavender oils, and 10 drops of eucalyptus oil. Mix with a non-metal utensil.
Why is witch hazel used in the spray?
Witch hazel dilutes the mixture and soothes the horse’s skin, enhancing comfort while boosting the spray’s effectiveness.
Can this spray be used on other animals?
Consult a veterinarian before using the spray on animals other than horses, as their sensitivities may differ.
How should I apply the spray on my horse?
Spray generously on exposed areas, avoiding eyes, nostrils, and sensitive spots, to provide effective insect protection without irritation.
