Ticks have become one of the most common concerns for families with pets, gardeners, and anyone who spends time outdoors. These tiny pests are more than just an annoyance; they can carry harmful diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. Many households are now searching for natural alternatives to chemical tick repellents, and cedarwood oil has earned a trusted spot on that list.
Cedar oil is a natural essential oil extracted from cedar trees, well-known for its pest-repelling properties. It disrupts insect pheromones, making it difficult for ticks to navigate, breed, and survive. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to make cedar oil spray for ticks, how it works, and how to use it safely on pets, people, and around your home.
Why Use Cedar Oil for Tick Control?
The Science Behind Cedarwood Oil
Cedarwood oil contains natural compounds that affect insects in a unique way. Ticks rely on scent pathways to detect hosts and food sources. When exposed to cedar oil, their ability to follow these signals becomes disrupted, leaving them disoriented. Over time, they retreat from treated areas.
In addition to disrupting pheromones, cedarwood oil has drying properties that can dehydrate ticks and other insects on contact. This double action makes it one of the most effective natural repellents available.
Benefits Over Chemical Sprays
Unlike traditional insecticides, cedar oil provides a safe approach without exposing your family or pets to harmful chemicals. Here’s why it stands out:
-
Safe for pets and children – properly diluted, cedar oil can be used on fur, bedding, and play areas.
-
Eco-friendly – it is biodegradable and will not harm soil, water, or beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.
-
Natural fragrance – instead of strong chemical odors, cedarwood oil leaves behind a pleasant, woodsy scent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Making your own cedar oil spray at home is simple and affordable. Most of the ingredients are easy to find online or in natural product stores.
Basic ingredients for DIY cedar oil spray:
-
Cedarwood essential oil – the active ingredient that repels ticks.
-
Distilled water – prevents impurities that can shorten shelf life.
-
Carrier oil (optional) – coconut oil or jojoba oil helps dilute the essential oil for safer skin contact.
-
Natural emulsifier – such as witch hazel or vinegar, to help mix oil with water.
-
Spray bottle – preferably dark glass to preserve the oil’s properties.
Tip: Always use pure cedarwood essential oil, not synthetic fragrances, to ensure effectiveness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cedar Oil Spray for Ticks
Step 1: Prepare Your Bottle
-
Clean the spray bottle thoroughly.
-
If possible, use a dark amber or cobalt bottle to protect the oil from light.
Step 2: Add Distilled Water
-
Fill the bottle about three-quarters full with distilled water.
Step 3: Add Cedarwood Oil
-
For an 8-ounce spray bottle, add 20–30 drops of cedarwood essential oil.
-
Adjust based on strength preference: fewer drops for a lighter scent, more for stronger tick control.
Step 4: Add Carrier Oil or Emulsifier
-
Add 1–2 teaspoons of coconut oil, jojoba oil, or witch hazel.
-
This prevents the cedar oil from separating and also makes it gentler on skin.
Step 5: Shake Well
-
Secure the lid and shake vigorously before each use.
-
Natural sprays separate over time, so shaking ensures even distribution.
DIY Cedar Spray Formula (Quick Recipe):
-
8 oz distilled water
-
25 drops cedarwood essential oil
-
1 tsp coconut oil or witch hazel
How to Use Cedar Oil Spray for Tick Protection
Once your spray is ready, you can use it in different ways depending on where you need protection.
On Pets
-
Lightly mist your dog’s coat before walks or outdoor play.
-
Avoid sensitive areas like eyes, nose, and mouth.
-
Brush the fur to distribute evenly.
-
Reapply every few hours or after swimming.
On Humans
-
Spray directly on shoes, socks, and exposed skin.
-
Apply before hiking, gardening, or spending time in wooded areas.
-
Safe to reapply as needed throughout the day.
In the Yard and Garden
-
Spray around the perimeter of your lawn.
-
Focus on shady, damp areas where ticks are likely to hide.
-
Treat shrubs, tall grass, and the edges of wooded areas.
On Household Surfaces
-
Mist pet bedding, carpets, and doorways.
-
This creates an invisible barrier against ticks entering your home.
Safety and Storage Tips
Like any essential oil product, cedarwood oil spray should be handled carefully. Here are a few tips to keep it safe and effective:
-
Patch test first – before applying to skin or pets, test a small area to ensure no irritation.
-
Avoid overuse – while safe when diluted, concentrated essential oils can cause sensitivity.
-
Store properly – keep in a cool, dark place to extend shelf life.
-
Shake before use – natural oils separate from water, so always shake to mix.
-
Keep away from cats – some cats may be sensitive to essential oils; consult your vet before using.
Cedar Oil Store’s Ready-to-Use Solutions
While making your own cedar oil spray is simple, not everyone has the time or interest in DIY projects. That’s where ready-to-use solutions can help.
Cedar Oil Store offers sprays that are professionally blended for maximum effectiveness and convenience. These products are:
-
Pre-measured and balanced for safety.
-
Tested for quality and consistency.
-
Designed for pets, homes, lawns, and personal protection.
Choosing a ready-to-use product means you don’t have to worry about mixing ratios or storage mistakes. It also ensures that the spray works effectively every time.
Additional Tick Prevention Tips
Cedar oil spray works best as part of a larger tick prevention plan. Here are some extra steps to keep your home and yard safe:
-
Keep lawns trimmed – ticks thrive in tall grass.
-
Remove leaf litter – damp piles of leaves are a breeding ground.
-
Create a barrier – wood chips or gravel between your yard and wooded areas can reduce tick migration.
-
Check regularly – inspect pets and family members after outdoor activities.
-
Use cedar mulch – it naturally repels ticks and other pests in garden beds.
Conclusion
Ticks are more than just a nuisance; they can pose serious health risks to pets and people alike. Learning how to make cedar oil spray for ticks gives you a safe, natural, and effective way to keep them at bay. Whether you choose to mix your own spray at home or use one of Cedar Oil Store’s ready-to-use solutions, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your family is protected without harsh chemicals.
Stay connected with us on Instagram.
PHONE: 210-599-0449
EMAIL: Bobamarine@cedaroilindustries.com