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.
