Spending time outside is one of the best parts of spring and summer—especially when you live a more off-grid or homesteading lifestyle. But mosquitoes, blackflies, and no-see-ums can make even the nicest evening miserable. Like many people, I used to rely on store-bought sprays. But most of them contain DEET, which—while effective—isn’t something I love…
Category: Scents & Fragrance
Learn how to scent handmade soap safely and effectively using essential oils and fragrance oils. This section covers blending, usage rates, safety considerations, and the differences between natural and synthetic scents.
Deet Free Insect Repellent
DEET Free Insect Repellent: Natural Protection That Actually Works Spending time outdoors in the spring and summer is one of the best parts of living off-grid or simply enjoying a slower lifestyle. But nothing sends you back inside faster than relentless mosquitoes. Most people reach for conventional bug sprays that contain DEET, a chemical pesticide…
What to Scent Soap With (Natural & Safe Soap Fragrance Options)
Scenting handmade soap is one of the most creative — and often confusing — parts of soap making. With so many options available, it’s not always clear what you can scent soap with, what works best, and what should be avoided altogether. From essential oils and fragrance oils to herbs and natural add-ins, each scenting…
Essential Oils vs Fragrance Oils
Essential Oils vs Fragrance Oils: What’s Best for Natural Soap Making? When it comes to scenting handmade soap, one of the most common questions soap makers ask is: Should I use essential oils or fragrance oils? While both add scent, they are not the same — and choosing the right one affects not only fragrance,…



