What You’ll Need:
- 3-4 fresh chili peppers (choose your preferred level of spiciness)
- 2 cups of water
- A medium-sized saucepan
- A strainer or cheesecloth
- A spray bottle
- A funnel (optional, but helpful for pouring the mixture into the spray bottle)
- Protective gloves and goggles (to avoid irritation)
Step 1: Prepare the Chili Peppers
Put on your gloves and goggles to protect yourself from the spicy oils. Wash the chili peppers thoroughly and remove the stems. If you prefer a milder spray, you can also remove the seeds.
Step 2: Create a Chili Pepper Infusion
Pour the water into a medium-sized saucepan and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the chili peppers. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes. This will help release the natural oils and capsaicin from the peppers, making the spray more potent.
Step 3: Let the Mixture Cool Down
After simmering, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool down to room temperature. This step is essential to avoid any potential burns when handling the spray.
Step 4: Strain the Mixture
Place a strainer or cheesecloth over a container to strain the mixture. Slowly pour the chili pepper infusion into the strainer, allowing the liquid to pass through while catching any solid pieces. This will give you a smooth and clear pepper spray.
Step 5: Transfer to a Spray Bottle
Using a funnel or carefully pouring, transfer the chili pepper spray into a spray bottle. Make sure to choose a spray bottle with a nozzle that can produce a fine mist. This will help distribute the spray evenly.
Step 6: Storage and Application
Your homemade chili pepper spray is now ready to use. Store it in a cool, dark place to prolong its shelf life. When applying the spray, make sure to shake the bottle well to mix any settled solids. Spritz the solution onto plants, garden areas, or areas where you want to deter animals.
Important Precautions:
- Wear gloves and goggles during the preparation to avoid skin and eye irritation.
- Keep the spray away from children and pets as it can cause discomfort if ingested or sprayed directly into eyes.
- Test the spray on a small area first before applying to sensitive plants to ensure they are not negatively affected.
- Reapply the spray after rain or as needed to maintain its effectiveness.
By following this simple step-by-step guide, you can create your own homemade chili pepper spray to keep those unwanted pests at bay. Remember, always handle the spray with care and use it responsibly. Happy gardening!