You might not think of it this way, but when you put on a mosquito repellent, you’re putting on a shield. Mosquitoes are annoying, and they can carry diseases that can make you sick. When you spray yourself with a mosquito repellent, you’re protecting yourself from these pests and keeping your family safe from illnesses.
Mosquitoes can carry viruses like West Nile virus and Zika virus, which cause serious illness in humans. Insect repellents help prevent mosquitoes from biting us by masking our scent to them. They also keep us from being bitten by other insects like ticks and chiggers that also carry diseases. Some insect repellents even protect against ticks carrying Lyme disease!
But how do they work? There are many different kinds of insect repellents available these days—some products use DEET (an ingredient in some bug sprays), while others use plant oils or other ingredients like citronella oil or peppermint oil. The active ingredient in insect repellents is usually something called N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide (DEET). This chemical works by interfering with the nervous system of insects
Which mosquito repellent is best for You?
For a long time, we’ve been told that DEET is the only thing that works on mosquitos. And while it certainly does work, it also comes with some serious side effects. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that DEET is “safe when used as directed.” However, the EPA has also warned against using DEET on children under the age of 12 and pregnant women.
So what’s an outdoorsy person to do? Well, there are many other options out there for keeping bugs at bay without all the side effects of DEET. Here are a few of our favorites:
How do you make a natural mosquito repellent?
There are many ways to make a natural mosquito repellent, but the most popular is to mix oils such as citronella, DEET, and lemon eucalyptus. Another popular option is to use plant-based repellents such as catnip oil or rosemary oil. Some people also put essential oils on their skin or clothing, or use electronic mosquito repellents that emit a high-pitched frequency.
What is the most effective natural mosquito repellent?
There are many different types of mosquito repellents on the market, but which is the most effective for you? By understanding what type of repellent you need and how to apply it, you can be sure to keep pesky mosquitoes at bay.
Types of Mosquito Repellents
There are three main types of mosquito repellent: DEET-based repellents, plant-based repellents, and essential oils.
DEET-based repellents are the most popular and effective against mosquitoes. They work by creating a “safe zone” around you that mosquitoes don’t want to enter. To be effective, DEET-based repellents should be applied liberally and should be used in combination with other methods of protection such as mosquito netting or sunscreen.
Plant-based repellents are made from plants and contain substances that repel mosquitoes. Some plant-based repellents are oil-based, while others use ingredients such as citronella or lemongrass oil. Plant-based repellents are less effective than DEET-based repellents, but they can be more environmentally friendly.
How to make an easy Mosquito and tick repellent?
There are many mosquito repellents on the market today, and it can be hard to decide which one is right for you. This guide will teach you how to make an easy mosquito and tick repellent that you can use anywhere.
To make your own repellent, all you need are some essential oils, baking soda, and a container. Start by mixing together 1 tablespoon of oil with 1 teaspoon of baking soda in a small bowl. You can adjust the amount of oil and baking soda to create different concentrations, but 3-6 drops is typically enough for most applications.
Next, add your chosen essential oils to the mixture and stir until well combined. Try to choose oils that have mosquito-repelling properties, like citronella or DEET. If you want a tick-repelling repellent, add 2-3 drops of tea tree oil or lavender oil. Finally, pour the mixture into a container like a spray bottle and label it accordingly.
You can then use your homemade repellent wherever mosquitoes or ticks are common. Store it in a cool, dark place for best results.
Which mosquito repellent is best for You?
When looking to buy a mosquito repellent, you first need to decide what type of repellent you are most concerned with. There are two main types of mosquito repellents: citronella and DEET.
Citronella is a plant-based spray that is most effective when sprayed on the skin directly. It has a citrus smell, which some people find irritating. DEET is a more popular option because it is effective against both insects and mosquitoes. However, DEET can be harmful if applied improperly, so always read the directions before using it.
If you are only concerned with mosquitoes, there are several good options available. For body spray, Repel Sport provides good coverage and doesn’t leave a strong odor or feel sticky. For insect repellents applied to clothing, Sawyer Insect Repellent offers good protection from both mosquitoes and ticks while being lightweight and breathable. Finally, if you want something that will also protect your house, try OFF! A whole house spray that combines DEET with other plants and ingredients to provide long-term protection.
