Homemade Pepper Spray Tutorial For Self Defense | Survival Hacks

Reading Time: 3 minutes

By Riley E. Carlson 3 Comments

Follow this homemade pepper spray tutorial for a cheap and effective self-defense weapon that you can always have on hand that's made from pantry staples.

Easy DIY Homemade Pepper Spray For Self Protection

For anyone who values their safety, it's important to consider self-defense strategies to protect yourself in a time of danger. While some may choose to learn physical protection strategies like tae kwon do or judo, not everyone has the time to squeeze in a daily lesson. When you're forced to choose between fight and flight, it's always good to have a backup on hand! Although they can be a bit pricey, store-bought tasers and pepper sprays can help protect you in times of need. For those of you who are up for a challenge, try one of the most inexpensive self-defense weapons you can make yourself – DIY pepper spray.

A Word of Caution

Please use caution when making your own pepper spray! This is a highly irritable natural weapon. We recommend the following:

• Wear protective gear like gloves and goggles.
• Prepare the pepper spray in a well-ventilated area.
• Always be alert and don't spill or spray on yourself.
• Have Asthma? Don't make this.
• If the solution comes into contact with eyes, flush eyes IMMEDIATELY for 15-20 minutes in running water.
• Make at your own risk*

Pepper Spray Ingredients

You'll need the following 6 things to make pepper spray:

• Ground Pepper
• Alcohol
• Rubbing Alcohol
• Spray Bottle
• Small Mixing Bowl
• Coffee Filter

Details as follows…

Pick Your Pepper

You can use fresh, dried, or powdered pepper — it all works. Here's the breakdown…

Choose 1 of the following:

• Powdered Cayenne Pepper – 2 tbsp
• Fresh or Dried Pepper – 15-20 pieces should make 2 tbsp ground up

Powdered cayenne pepper is a great choice to include as it can be incredibly irritating to the eyes. For an added punch, grind up the whole pepper to release its natural oils. Check out this tutorial on how to grow your own pepper plant if you'd like to create your own supply!

Alcohol

Alcohol is an essential part in making your pepper spray. It acts as a solvent and bonds with the pepper to release the capsaicin found in peppers. While rubbing alcohol is recommended, vodka will also work if you have on hand. Adding this stinging ingredient will also allow your spray to last longer – up to 2 months.

Baby Oil or Vegetable Oil

There's a secret ingredient in creating pepper spray — oil. Baby oil or vegetable oil will make the spray adhere to the attacker's clothing and skin. Add one tablespoon of oil for every two tablespoons of pepper. The recipe we're using today calls for 4 tbsp of baby oil.

Ok, so now you've gathered your ingredients. Here's what to do next…

Homemade Pepper Spray Steps:

1. 2 tbsp pepper – Start with your pepper in a small mixing bowl
2. Rubbing alcohol – Slowly add the rubbing alcohol to the pepper until pepper is completely submerged. Stir well to activate and combine.
3. 4 tbsp baby oil – Slowly add the oil into the solution. Stir well to activate and combine.
4. Let the mixture sit in a cool dry place overnight so the ingredients can fully fuse.
5. Filter – After leaving your pepper spray mixture overnight, filter it to remove sediments that could clog your nozzle.
6. Spray bottle – Prepare a clean and empty spray bottle, add the filtered pepper spray solution.
7. Screw cap on tightly!
8. TIP: Dress up your pepper spray bottle distinctively so you'll know which one is it when you have to use it for an emergency.

With just a few household items and your DIY skills, you'll now have a natural weapon on hand in case you freeze up when trying to remember those taekwondo moves. If you're looking to make your pepper spray extra potent, try adding additional irritants such as lemon, garlic, or black pepper. For the most effective use of your spray, be sure to practice your aim and remain conscious of your surroundings.

 

Not sure how to properly use pepper spray? Check out this video for best practices:

Have you tried making a pepper spray on your own? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!