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Best Mosquito Repellent (Updated 2024)

  • Post category:Skincare

Mosquitoes, the bane of the outdoors, and the indoors! But fear not, this handy guide is going to break down all of the best mosquito repellent on the market, and (hopefully) say goodbye to mosquito bites for good!

In this article we discuss the following:

What is Mosquito Repellent?

Mosquito repellent is a formulated substance that is used to repel or discourage mosquitoes from coming near a human or animal. It comes in the form of sprays, creams, lotions, coils, candles, and even repellent bracelets. These products emit a scent that is not attractive to mosquitoes, which in turn works to reduce the risk of being bitten.

Mosquito Repellent Benefits

Other than the overriding benefit of not having to deal with annoying itchy bites, repellents can also help to prevent mosquito-transmitted diseases that may be a risk factor in certain areas. Oberon Copeland, founder and CEO of Very Informed, told us more:

“Repellents are especially helpful in areas where mosquito-borne illnesses are common. Additionally, most mosquito repellents are relatively safe to use, particularly when compared to other methods of pest control such as spraying insecticides.”

However, Oberon noted that there are some downsides to using mosquito repellent as well. “Some repellents can be quite smelly, and they may need to be reapplied often in order to be effective. Additionally, some people may have an allergic reaction to mosquito repellent, so it is important to test a small area of skin before applying it generously,” he explained.

Mosquito Repellent for Dogs

In the summer months, many dogs will need the help of mosquito repellent, too. These bites can be very irritating, itchy and sometimes even dangerous for our furry friends, so the fact that sprays have been specifically designed to help our animals is a major feat in terms of pet-wellness.

You should also make sure to keep your dog’s general area clean and free of standing water where mosquitoes can breed. This works well to greatly reduce the extent of exposure. 

Mosquito Repellent for Kids

Children of all ages are considered high risk when it comes to mosquito attack. Diseases such as malaria and yellow fever run rampant amongst the youth, statistically speaking, and their little immune systems can struggle to fight off the intrusion. Using a suitable repellent, ideally made from natural ingredients, is a proactive way of preventing as many bites as possible. 

Mosquito Repellent for Babies

Similarly, babies are particularly vulnerable due to their immature immune systems. A good mosquito repellent for babies should be safe, effective, and easy to use, without any harsh chemicals that could further compromise the infant. It should contain natural ingredients, such as essential oils, citronella, and mint, that can repel and reduce the number of mosquitoes in the area.

Mosquito Repellent for Backyard

Mosquito repellent for the outdoors is a must have for anyone who spends a lot of time in nature. Not only can it help keep you safe from insect bites, but it can make you somewhat invisible to the mosquitos carrying the harsher diseases within their systems.

What is Deet?

Deet is one of those chemical mosquito repellent ingredients that has been used for over 50 years to ward off bothersome biting insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, chiggers, and fleas. It is available in a variety of forms including liquid, spray, and lotions. Deet repels insects by masking the smell of the person or animal wearing it. It is considered to be one of the most effective insect repellents available, and is generally safe when used correctly and according to the directions on the label.

Sarah Watton, director at Proactive Healthcare, noted that Deet can also harm humans, causing skin irritation and other problems. “Deet is a chemical linked to seizures, skin irritation, and even death in children. In addition, mosquito repellents, even those containing Deet, only provide temporary relief, as mosquitoes will eventually become accustomed to the chemicals and return,” she explains. 

Deet Free Bug Spray

Some people opt not to use Deet in their mosquito repelling endeavors, usually for personal reasons. Since Deet is a chemical, its natural alternative would be produced using only plant-based ingredients, including essential oils and botanical extracts. This would make them non-toxic, non-irritating, and free from harsh chemicals. These products are usually also odorless and do not leave an oily residue, which some find preferable! 

What Can I Use as a Natural Mosquito Repellent?

If mosquito repellent natural tickles your fancy more than chemical counterparts, you’ll be pleased to know that mother nature has provided ample resources for us to fight these pesky insects the natural way. 

Mosquito Repellent Plants

Mosquito repelling plants include lavender, marigolds, citronella, catnip, rosemary, and peppermint. In addition to being pleasing to the eye and nose, these plants also help keep mosquitoes from detecting your human-scent. You don’t necessarily have to wear them on your person, simply planting mosquito repellent plants in your garden or around your porch can provide you with a natural and effective barrier against the intruders.

Marigold Mosquito Repellent

Marigold is a popular way to repel mosquitoes and other insects. Made from the flowers of the marigold plant, it is effective for use both indoors and outdoors. As expected, it has a pleasant smell and is totally non-toxic, making it a great option for those who are looking for a natural alternative. In addition to mosquitoes, this flower can also repel moths, flies and spiders!

Lavender Mosquito Repellent

Lavender as a mosquito repellent is a crowd favorite, and is most effective when used on surfaces and furniture, as opposed to the body itself. Simply add a few drops of lavender oil to a spray bottle filled with water and then spray the mixture onto your outdoor areas. It doesn’t hurt that lavender also has calming properties, which is very nice to live in the midst of.

Basil Mosquito Repellent

Basil happens to make for a great natural bug repellent, as its strong aroma works to keep mosquitoes away. It can be used in many forms, such as sprinkling dried basil around windows and doors, planting basil in the garden, or even physically burning basil leaves in a fire. Basil also works when rubbed directly onto the skin, but we would only recommend doing this when mixing it with other essential oils such as lemon balm and eucalyptus.

Mint Mosquito Repellent

Mint is an effective natural plant that can also be used to repel mosquitos. The strong aromatic oils in the plant act as a natural deterrent for the pests, and it is easily formulated into either a spray or a candle. For best results, mix a few drops of essential oil of mint with water and spray the mixture around areas where mosquitoes are most active. It can also be used on skin and clothing! 

Lemon Mosquito Repellent

We love this DIY mosquito repellent! By combining fresh lemon juice, water and any essential oils of your choosing, one simply has to spray the mixture on surfaces where the mosquitoes tend to be most present. The lemon scent is incredibly unpleasant to them, and the mixture is safe to use for people of all ages and can also be applied directly to skin or clothes.

What Essential Oils are Good for Mosquito Repellent?

We had a chat with Alex Sudrajat, founder of leading pest control website gavoot.com. Alex has found a positive experience with a plant called zodia (Evodia suaveolens Scheff). “In an outdoor area, this plant completely repels mosquitoes both at noon and night. Then, in an indoor area, this plant also works well. I only need to put zodia near the door and windows where the air circulates and mosquitoes come in!”

In addition to zodia, we love lemongrass, tea tree, cinnamon, clove, geranium, and citronella for the purpose of deterring mosquitos. 

Cinnamon Oil for Mosquito Repellent

Speaking of cinnamon oil, a lot of people don’t know that it actually contains anti-microbial properties that can help to kill off mosquito larvae. More than this, adult mosquitos hate the smell and cannot linger around it too long, which makes it highly effective!

Eucalyptus Oil Mosquito Repellent

Eucalyptus oil is made from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree and has long been used to help ward off pesky mosquitoes. The oil has a strong, distinct smell that mosquitoes find unpleasant and so they tend to stay away. It is most effective when applied directly to the skin, but can be mixed into a spray if preferred.

Types of Mosquito Repellent

Now to delve into the many different types of mosquito repellents out there to find out which one can best serve your needs. 

Mosquito Repellent Bracelet

These bracelets are an innovative new way to ward off mosquitos and other insects. Essentially, the bracelets are soaked in all-natural ingredients, such as citronella, eucalyptus, and lavender oils and then secured around the wrist or ankle. Slowly, it releases a pleasant scent that repels mosquitos and keeps them aware from the skin of the wearer. They are typically waterproof and can last up to two weeks.

Do Mosquito Repellent Bracelets Work?

Yes indeed, these bracelets are an effective and safe way to keep mosquitos away and provide long-lasting protection. They’re particularly great for outdoor activities, such as camping, hiking, and gardening.

Mosquito Repellent Bracelet Reviews

From what we can tell, reviews for these devices are overwhelmingly positive. People report that not only are the bracelets effective at keeping mosquitoes away, but they are comfortable to wear and do not feel bulky or heavy. It seems that the aroma from the bracelet is also pleasant and not overpowering.

Mosquito Repellent Machine

Mosquito repellent machines use ultrasonic frequencies to create an area of protection from mosquitoes. It emits a continuous sound which is designed to keep mosquitoes away from the area and thus creating a safer environment for people to enjoy outdoor activities. The sound generated by these machines is usually inaudible to humans.

Mosquito Repellent Candles

Candles have been around for a long time as a means of warding off annoying pests, and the ones designed for mosquitos are typically made with the citronella plant. While they can be used both indoors and outdoors, some people might find the aroma of the candle to be a little overpowering and thus more suitable for open-air patio usage. 

Mosquito Repellent Cream

Typically made with natural ingredients, such as citronella, neem, and eucalyptus, repellent creams are usually waterproof and make for great protection in environments where mosquitos are gathering near water-sports, such as on a dam or creek. The creams offer long-lasting protection and a level of water resistance. 

Electric Mosquito Repellent

Electric repellents tend to come in the form of a plug adaption that works to heat a soft pad that has been soaked in deterring plants and/or chemicals. The aroma escapes into the atmosphere and fills the room, creating an unpleasant environment that is not favorable for the mosquito colonies, but very much favorable for a good night’s sleep. 

Mosquito Repellent Spray

Repellent sprays create a barrier against mosquitoes and other insects. They’re a great way to keep the bugs away from both your skin and clothes, and can be used effectively in both indoor and outdoor settings. 

Mosquito Repellent Coils

Not only are they interesting to look at, but coils are actually one of the most effective ways to keep mosquitoes at bay. The coils are usually made of a combustible material that, when lit, produces smoke that is highly effective in repelling insects. The smoke contains a chemical that acts as a strong deterrent, but it can be overpowering in small spaces. We’d recommend using these outside of doors and windows. 

Mosquito Repellent App

There really is an app for everything these days. The Repellent App emits a sound frequency that is designed to repel mosquitoes and keep them away while you sleep. One can customize their sound frequency, allowing them to choose a sound that is most effective in their area. The app is free and eco-friendly, making it an ideal choice for those who are looking for a chemical-free solution.

Mosquito Repellent Patch

Mosquito patches are less common, but actually quite effective. They stick to the skin or clothing, and contain natural ingredients such as citronella, eucalyptus, and lavender which release a scent that is unappealing to the mosquitos. Usually non-chemical, these are ideal for children as well as adults. They can provide protection for up to 8 hours, which makes for a peaceful night’s sleep. 

Mosquito Repellent Clothing

Mosquito repellent clothing is a special type of garment designed to keep mosquitoes away from the person wearing it. It is typically made from tightly woven fabrics that are treated with insect repelling chemicals. The treatment helps to produce an unappealing scent barrier that prevents the mosquitoes from landing on the clothing or the person. For hikers and adventurers who will be spending ample time outdoors, this is a highly effective way of protecting oneself from the threats that these pests may bring. 

Mosquito Repellent Wipes

Mosquito repellent wipes are a convenient and effective way to repel mosquitoes without having to worry about sprays or creams. The wipes usually contain natural mosquito repellent ingredients, such as lavender, eucalyptus, lemon, citronella or cedarwood. These particular wipes are also usually biodegradable, non-toxic and eco-friendly.

Mosquito Repellent Lamp

Lamps that repel mosquitos will emit light and sound that insects find unbearable. The lamps also often contain a fan which circulates air to disperse odors and other substances that mosquitoes will not stick around for, or they may use ultraviolet light to actually kill off the mosquitoes and totally prevent them from entering the area.

Roll On Mosquito Repellent

Like roll on deodorant, roll on repellent is simply a stick of repellent formula that can be applied across the skin for the purpose of deterring mosquitos. While these are usually made with only natural ingredients, there are variations that may contain chemical elements. For this reason, it is imperative to first read the instructions of the product to ensure it is safe for children’s skin. 

Mosquito Repellent Pills

People who live in high density mosquito ridden areas, or people who are planning on traveling to these areas, can benefit from the protection that mosquito repellent pills provide. Usually a pill of this sort can be taken as a single dose to provide protection for up to 8 hours. The active ingredient is DEET, and these pills are considered safe to take and have no known side effects; An ideal choice for those who don’t like to use sprays or lotions.

Mosquito Repellent Shampoo

Yes, repellent shampoos are alive and well, and while we’d usually only recommend these for your pets, there are ample humans who have seen great benefit from these products in their daily regime. The shampoos are made from natural ingredients such as eucalyptus, lavender, and citronella which work wonders to ward off the pests.

Mosquito Repellent Review

Searching mosquito repellent online will bring up an array of customer reviews spanning all corners of the globe. The art of repelling mosquitoes has become somewhat of an exact science, and so long as one makes use of an adequate product, results are pretty much guaranteed!

Best Mosquito Repellent

From small homemade brands to EPA approved mosquito repellents, there’s something for everyone. Here is our list of the top options for various uses; which one is the one for you?

Best Mosquito Repellent for Yard

Thermacell E90 Mosquito Repeller

Thermacell E90 Mosquito Repeller

By yard, we mean the best mosquito repellent outdoor, and it’s an easy win for this impressive unit by Thermacell. The brand knows mosquitoes like no other, and has a range of products to help people keep them at bay. When it comes to keeping them away from a large outdoor area, this rechargeable repeller is the way to go. 

Featuring the ability to generate a 20 foot radius of protection, and a 9 hour lifespan at full charge, your family can enjoy unspoiled evenings in the garden year round. 

Best Mosquito Repellent for Babies

Pure Beginnings 100% Natural Insect Repellent Spray

For little one’s, it’s not worth the risk of spraying potentially harmful chemicals near their nose or mouth just to keep away the insects. 100% natural is the way to go, which is why we love this solution by Pure Beginnings. The South African brand is safe for children of all ages, and is completely DEET-free. A cruelty-free, vegan formula that can be used outdoors and indoors. 

Best Mosquito Repellent Spray 

Proven Insect Repellent Spray

Proven Insect Repellent Spray

If you’re unfazed by slightly more intense ingredients, then Proven’s 12 hour protective spray is without a doubt the most effective mosquito repellent out there. That’s right, over half a day’s worth of protection against mosquitos, ticks and even black flies. If you’re planning on traveling to mosquito-heavy destinations, then this is a spray you want to have in your bag! And as far as cheap mosquito repellents go, this one will not break the bank. 

Best Mosquito Repellent with Deet

Cutter Backwoods Dry Insect Repellent 

Cutter Backwoods Dry Insect Repellent

As far as Deet products go, this repellent by Cutter Backwoods has been highly impressive. Offering up to 10 hours of unwavering protection, the dry spray is also sweat resistant and can be used to repel flies, gnats and also ticks. It is known to keep even Zika-carrying mosquitoes away from the wearer, making it a potent solution for travelers. 

Best Rated Mosquito Repellent

Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent

Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent

This Dest-based product is gentle enough for the whole family, while simultaneously being one of the strongest repelling solutions on the market. This has earned it top ratings from anti-mosquito enthusiasts around the world, especially since the formula itself doesn’t harm clothing or gear. 

Best Natural Mosquito Repellent for Skin

Just because a repellent is good, doesn’t mean that it’s good for your skin. We spoke with Samantha Odo, the Chief operating officer and sales representative at Precondo, about this very subject. Samantha is passionate about people finding less harmful solutions to use on their skin. 

 “It’s no secret that mosquito repellent is bad because of the chemicals which get released from it when it is applied. I would say that stop using artificial repellents and use natural methods to prevent those such as keeping your house neat and removing the stagnated water around your house. You could actually use lavender, cinnamon and tea tree oils on your skin instead!” she explained. 

Best Unscented Mosquito Repellent 

Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets

Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets

These DEET-free, waterproof mosquito repellent bracelets are fast becoming one of the best ways to keep mosquitos away from your little ones. Both cruelty-free and vegan, the bracelets work to repel mosquitos via inlays of natural ingredients that generate a protective barrier between person and pest. 

Mosquito Repellent Brands

In addition to the best products listed above, we’ve also got some brands that are worth keeping an eye on when shopping for your best suited repellent product — read on! 

Off Mosquito Repellent

We’d be remiss not to mention the impressive work that Off is doing within the bug-repellent industry. Having synthesized a brand new active ingredient from pine oil extract, their botanical repellent is made entirely of plants and offers up to 8 hours of protection. From heavily wooded areas, to beach-dwelling mosquitos, Off has a product to combat them all. 

Coqui Coqui Mosquito Repellent 

Conqui Conqui is not a repellent brand per se, but their product did make waves as an effective deterrent early on in its release. This is a sei-luxury perfume brand, and their Citger Spray just so happens to have been developed with citronella and orange blossom. The result being a happy accident that mosquitoes seem to avoid the wearer at all costs. 

Coqui Coqui Mosquito Repellent Review

Reading the reviews for this perfume online, it becomes clear that this perfume really is doing great work in keeping away the pests. The formula was made using Yucatán’s exotic plants, in a method inspired by the Franciscan monks in Mexico. We wouldn’t be surprised if the monks knew exactly what they were doing when they first mixed these two plants, and that they too were on a mosquito repelling quest. 

Homemade Mosquito Repellent

While you’re here, let’s talk about mosquito repellent homemade. There is a home remedy mosquito repellent vinegar that we can teach you how to make, which is a great alternative to store-bought options, albeit not as long lasting. 

How Do You Make Homemade Mosquito Repellent?

To make a mosquito repellent at home, you will need your choice of essential oils, witch hazel, and water. Mix all of the ingredients together in a spray bottle and shake well before use. You may want to top up the solution with a few more drops of the essential oils every few days to create a more potent repellent. Homemade repellents need to be reapplied every few hours in order to be effective. 

Homemade Mosquito Repellent with Peppermint Oil

Combining water and peppermint oil into a spray bottle also makes for a great DIY mosquito repellent. This one is better used on window and door frames, to prevent the pests from coming inside in the first place. Shake well, and spray away!

DIY Mosquito Repellent Candles

DIY mosquito repellent candles are easier to make than they sound. They actually just require tea light candles and an empty jar, and there is no need to melt wax or create a candle from scratch. 

All you need to do is place slices of fresh lemon and lime, and rosemary sprigs into the empty jar. Then put 10 drops of lemon eucalyptus oil into the jar before filling it to the top with water. Gently lay the candle onto the water and let it float there while lit; the heat will cause the scent from the jar to move through your space, and create a deterring smell for the mosquitos. 

Where Can I Buy Mosquito Repellent

Mosquito repellent is one of the most common household items out there. You’ll find it available at just about every corner store, supermarket or even informal market around the world, due to the high demand and incredible need. 

Mosquito Repellent on Amazon

If there is a particular brand you have in mind, Amazon is a great place to look. This is also where you can find smaller brands with lesser known products, such as plant based alternatives or repellent devices that have yet to break into the mainstream markets. 

Mosquito Repellent Walmart

Walmart always has an array of products to choose from when it comes to mosquito repellent brands and types. Whether you’re in the market for something for your little one, yourself, or your pet, Walmart never fails to deliver. 

Mosquito Repellent Bracelet at Walmart

Because of its dedication to variety, Walmart is one of the few places where one can find an array of mosquito repellent bracelets to choose from. There are the more gentle units that are suitable for kids playing in the garden, and then there are the most industrial varieties intended for people who are going on outdoor expeditions and need extreme coverage. 

Mosquito Repellent Lotion at Walmart

Lotions are also in abundance at Walmart. This is important, as this type of mosquito repellent requires direct contact with human skin, and not all ingredients can make every skin-type happy. It’s important to do spot-tests before committing to a specific lotion brand, just to ensure that your skin is happy with the ingredients used in the specific formula. 

Mosquito Repellent Candles at Walmart

Repellent candles are a must in any household that suffers from intrusive pests. These are typically citronella based, which is an appealing smell to most (though some do find it overwhelming), and work to ward mosquitoes out of the space so that nights are long and unbothered. 

Mosquito Repellent at Target

We love the range of different products that Target keeps in their repellent inventory. If you’re looking for something natural and gentle, they’ll have options. If you’re looking for something harsh and chemical-based, they’ll also have options. At Target, the world is your oyster!

Mosquito Repellent Bracelet at Walgreens

Like Walmart, Walgreens also went to the effort of including some repellent bracelets on their shelves for customers to enjoy. These bracelets include options for kids through to adults, though many find the rest of their repellent products (sprays, lotions, gels) to be far more effective for adult-wear compared to the bracelet units. 

Mosquito Repellent in Canada

Canada is a country where regulations are strict when it comes to medical and wellness products, mosquito repellents included. Anything that is sold here needs to have first been approved by health and safety representatives, which makes their wellness market a pretty competitive one. In addition, the great outdoors is a big part of life in this part of the world, thus Canadian-made repellents tend to excel when compared to other leading brands. 

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