Comparison of Mosquito Repellents

BlondeSunnyDays · May 2016

Many people have given me (unsolicited) advice and recommended that I stock up on patches or Avon lotion that is not actually very effective against mosquitos. I thought that this article was very helpful!

https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2016/01/30/464740275/whats-the-best-way-to-keep-mosquitoes-from-biting

irshdancr5500 · May 2016

Consumer Reports recommended the Repel brand Lemon Eucalyptus repellent, so that's what I got. Natural, but supposed to be as effective as DEET. Fingers crossed!

AlexLindzz · May 2016

From what I read, lemon eucalyptus is generally not recommended in pregnancy. I didn't look too much into it though so I haven't seen the research behind it as to why.
ETA: looks like it's just due to lack of studies done

KilgraveMadeMeDoIt · May 2016

For what it's worth: something being 'natural' means absolutely nothing about its safety or effectiveness so please don't limit your options because of a meaningless buzzword that gets slapped onto things to make people pay more.

Meether · May 2016

Consumer Reports has very biased reviews. Lemon Oil Eucalyptus has the same efficacy as that of low concentrations of DEET (about 2 hours max of protection). I know 15-20% DEET or Picaridin are excellent repellents (8-10 hours of protection). Picaridin is a little more safe than DEET but DEET is also safe. Also, if you are going to be sitting for a period, a fan can also blow flying insects away easily.

butterkup-2 · May 2016

After discussing with my OB, I decided to go with tried and reliable OFF mosquito repellent. After 2 1/2 hours of hiking through the woods and river trails, I didn't have a single bite.
I know it's not exactly a "natural" product, but for me it wasn't worth the risk of getting 30 minutes in and being covered in bites.

LikeICantEven · May 2016

I don't even live in an area where Zika is a problem, but I bought the Bombshell perfume because it was cheap and smelled pretty good. Why not? Damn sight nicer than wearing mosquito repellent.

RGS24 · May 2016

I use the essential oil bug spray from doterra. (I know I'm lame) I spray it on my clothes when I'm outside and it really does work. My husband is covered in a million and 1 bug bites and not a bite on me.