11 Best Mosquito Repellers for a Safe and Fun Time Outdoors

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Summer is finally here! The weather is warm, the sun is shining, and there are many outdoor activities to enjoy. But along with all the fun comes the risk of getting bitten by mosquitoes. Contrary to popular belief, mosquitoes are more than just a nuisance; they can also transmit dangerous diseases like the Zika virus, West Nile virus, and malaria. So it’s important to take steps to protect yourself and your family from these pesky insects. Luckily, one of the best ways to deter them is using a mosquito repeller.

What is a Mosquito Repeller?

A mosquito repeller is a device that emits an odorless, harmless, non-toxic substance that repels mosquitoes and other insects. While traditional mosquito net canopies are just as effective, a mosquito repeller is much easier to use and doesn’t require setting up. The substance it emits is a fine mist that evaporates into the air, making it undetectable by humans. It works by irritating insects’ sensory organs, so they avoid the area where the repeller is installed, worn, or applied.

This effectively creates a mosquito-free zone around you, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about getting bitten. Mosquito repellers are available in various formats, including bracelets, plugins, and wearable devices. Some even come equipped with LED lights that further help repel mosquitoes.

How Do Mosquito Repellers Work?

A mosquito repeller uses three different methods to work: olfactory, auditory, and thermal. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, olfactory repellers work by emitting an unpleasant odor that insects hate, while auditory repellers emit high-frequency sounds that are irritating. Thermal repellers work by emitting heat, making it uncomfortable for insects to be around them. All three methods work best when used together to cover all bases, so most mosquito repellers have all three methods built into them.

However, it is essential to note that mosquito repellers will not kill all of the insects around you. Instead, these products will significantly reduce the number of mosquito bites you receive outdoors by immobilizing the insects. Therefore, it is still important to take the proper precautions, such as wearing long-sleeved and loose clothes, avoiding mosquito-infested areas, and using insect repellent when you do go out.

Types of Mosquito Repellers You Can Use Outdoors

There are two main types of mosquito repellent: chemical-based and natural or organic-based. Chemical-based mosquito repellents use chemicals such as DEET or Picaridin to repel mosquitoes. In contrast, natural-based ones use substances like citronella oil or lemon eucalyptus oil to deter them. Chemical-based mosquito repellents are more effective, but they are also harsher on your skin and can be dangerous if exposed to them in large quantities. On the other hand, a natural or biological-based mosquito repeller is much better for your health and can be used on various surfaces without causing any damage. They also come in a wide variety of products that suits individual needs, including sprays, candles, and even electronic repellents.

Mosquito Coils

A mosquito coil is an insect-repelling incense that is often spiral-shaped. It is usually placed inside or on a fireproof holder while suspended in the air allowing the incense to burn. The smoke from the incense repels mosquitoes and other flying insects. It can be used indoors or outdoors so you can enjoy a peaceful night’s sleep or a relaxing day out.

Mosquito coils contain the chemical pyrethrum, which is one of the most effective chemical-based mosquito repellents on the market. However, it is also one of the harshest ones on the skin and can aggravate breathing problems if inhaled for long. Therefore, it should be used in small amounts and with caution. Furthermore, if you have sensitive skin or are prone to rashes and allergies, you may want to avoid using mosquito coils. Overall, mosquito coils are great for people who live in areas with many mosquitoes.

Mosquito Repellent Candles

Mosquito repellent candles are another great way to keep mosquitoes away without having to spray chemicals all around. These candles use natural substances like citronella oil or lemon eucalyptus oil to keep mosquitoes at bay. It also emits a pleasant scent that will make you feel more at ease when relaxing in your backyard. Since they are not toxic, you do not have to worry about using them in your home.

The downside is that these candles can be expensive, and you may have to buy them in bulk, especially if you have a bigger space. However, if you live in an area with many mosquitoes, then it is worth it to invest in these candles. On the other hand, if you don’t want to spend money on expensive mosquito repellent candles, there are also plenty of DIY candle projects that you can try out instead.

Ultrasonic Mosquito Repeller

If you want something more portable, consider an ultrasonic mosquito repeller instead. These devices work by emitting a high-frequency sound wave capable of driving mosquitoes away. They are easy to use and are ideal for small spaces. However, some of these products require a power outlet to work, so you may want to go for ones with battery-powered features if you plan to use them for outdoor recreational activities.

Mosquito Repeller Sprays

Mosquito repeller sprays are also a popular choice for mosquito and bug control. These sprays contain ingredients that can repel mosquitoes and keep them away from your home. Furthermore, most mosquito sprays are made with natural ingredients and are safe to use around children.

Some of the most common ingredients in mosquito repellent sprays include citronella, clove oil, eucalyptus oil, and soybean oil. When used in a spray, these ingredients can create a protective barrier around you that mosquitoes can’t break through.

Depending on the brand, these mosquito and bug sprays may be applied directly to any exposed skin or sprayed onto clothing, to provide protection throughout the day. However, it is important to note that most mosquito sprays may not last long and require a consistent application.

Mosquito Repellent Lotions

Mosquito repellent lotions are another popular choice for preventing bites from mosquitoes. These lotions contain natural and mild ingredients that are safe to apply directly to the skin. Additionally, they often include ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E that help keep skin moisturized and healthy. This feature is perfect for people with sensitive skin who are prone to rashes and allergies.

Wristbands, Wipes, and Patches

While these items may not have the same effect as a mosquito repellent lotion, they are still helpful in keeping you bite-free during your outdoor adventures. Wristbands, wipes, and patches are great ways to prevent mosquito bites while enjoying the outdoors. Many of these products work well on their own or can be layered with other products to keep you fully protected against mosquitoes and other insects.

Wristbands and patches are infused with insect repellent chemicals. These chemicals are emitted into the air making mosquitoes less attracted to you. This significantly reduces your chances of being bitten, especially outside. Wipes are also an effective way to protect yourself from mosquitoes and other biting insects, with a wide range of scents available for men, women, and children.

But while many wipes claim to repel mosquitos, some contain chemicals that may attract more bugs. To avoid this problem, choose wipes containing natural ingredients like tea tree oil or lavender oil, which also help keep skin healthy without adding unwanted chemicals or fragrances.

Mosquito Repellant Lanterns

Mosquito repellant lanterns are a fun way to keep yourself protected from mosquitoes while camping or enjoying the outdoors. They cast a light that attracts, traps, and immobilizes mosquitoes and other insects, making them a popular choice for picnics, campouts, and other outdoor activities.

Best Mosquito Repellers for a Safe and Fun Time Outdoors

1. PIC Mosquito-Repelling Coils for Outdoor Spaces

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Looking to keep pesky mosquitoes away while enjoying time outdoors? PIC Mosquito-Repelling Coils for Outdoor Spaces are the perfect solution! These coils emit scents that help repel mosquitoes for five to seven hours, making them perfect for picnics, camping, a backyard barbecue, or just a relaxing day out. For best results, place the coil 10 feet away from you.

2. Citronella Long Lasting Scented Candle

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This mosquito repellant candle from Yinuo Candle Store is specially made from a citronella scented soy wax with fresh citronella oils. This makes them ideal for keeping mosquitoes and other insects away while you enjoy your time outdoors. Each candle comes in a pack of two and has 50 hours of long-lasting power. These non-toxic, vegan candles deliver a refreshing and paraffin-free fragrance to your outdoor space.

Read more: How To Repel Yellow Jackets

3. XEDUS Ultrasonic Pest Repeller Plugin

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Mosquitoes are not the only ones that can be irritating outdoors — bugs, too! With the XEDUS Ultrasonic Pest Repeller Plugin, you no longer have to worry about annoying pests that keep bugging you while trying to enjoy your time outdoors. This single device uses upgraded ultrasonic and electromagnetic technologies that emit high-frequency sound waves to keep mosquitoes and other pests away.

What’s more, it is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry around wherever you go. You can use it indoors or outdoors where electricity is present, and it’s safe around both kids and pets.

4. Stay Away Picaridin Mosquitoes Insect Repellent Unscented Spray

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If you’re looking for the best mosquito spray for your camping, hiking, or other outdoor getaways, this odorless and non-greasy mosquito repellant spray is perfect for you. It is made from Picaridin, a CDC-recommended ingredient that is safe to use for everyone, including kids and pregnant women. It can be sprayed directly onto your skin or all over your clothes and it won’t leave a greasy residue behind.

5. Sawyer Lotion 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent

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The Sawyer Lotion Insect Repellent is a must-have for anyone who wants to stay protected from mosquito bites all day long. It is also a non-greasy lotion that you can apply directly to your skin to avoid bites from disease-spreading ticks. In addition, this product is DEET-free and is made with 20% Picaridin, so you don’t have to worry about any harmful effects on your skin and overall health.

In addition, this repellent lotion gives you at least eight hours of protection against gnats, flies, and chiggers. It safeguards you for up to 14 hours against mosquitoes and ticks. It’s also safe for use on the whole family, dries quickly, and won’t damage plastics or synthetic coatings, making it ideal for clothing, backpacks, and other wearable items.

6. BuggyBands Mosquito Bracelets DEET Free

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BuggyBands Mosquito Bracelets are perfect to keep mosquitoes away without using any harsh chemicals. These bracelets are made with high-quality Ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA) material and all-natural ingredients such as geraniol oil, lemongrass oil, and citronella oil. They’re also 100% DEET-free, so you can rest easy knowing that you’re not putting any harmful chemicals on your skin. The BuggyBands Mosquito Bracelets come in a pack of 12 colorful bands. They’re perfect for indoor and outdoor use and can be worn on both ankles and wrists.

Read more: What Repels Bed Bugs

7. Natrapel Picaridin Insect Repellent Wipes

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Stay bite-free with these EPA-registered insect repellent wipes from Natrapel. Each piece is made with a 20% picaridin formula, keeping you protected from disease-carrying insects for 12 hours. You can use the wipes on exposed skin, clothing, and even shoes. The wipes are also effective against ticks and biting bugs and are safe for the whole family.

8. BuzzPatch Mosquito Repellant Patch Stickers for Kids

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Looking for a safe, DEET-free mosquito repellant alternative for your little ones? BuzzPatch Mosquito Repellant Patch Stickers for Kids are here for you! These stickers are made with all-natural, plant-based ingredients and citronella essential oil that keeps the bugs away without any harsh chemicals. Simply stick them on your child’s clothing or backpack and let the good times roll!

9. BuggyBands Mosquito Patches Stickers and Bracelet for Adult Kids

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Don’t let mosquitos ruin your outdoor adventures! These mosquito patches from BuggyBands are the perfect solution for those looking to avoid mosquito bites on a camping trip or while traveling. The resealable stickers also come with two packs of mosquito bracelets that provide protection while you’re sleeping or awake. These patches are designed to fit all body curves and stay attached to clothes, bags, and apparel. BuggyBands is also a great alternative to DEET and other harsh chemicals.

10. SKEETER HAWK Personal Mosquito Zapper Lantern

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The Skeeter Hawk Personal Mosquito Zapper Lantern is a safe, natural, and powerful way to protect you from mosquitoes, flies, and other biting insects. The lantern features a dual-band UV light technology that attracts bugs and flying insects to the grid and kills them with a powerful electric current.

It also comes with a cleaning brush to help you clean the electric grid of any collected debris or dead insects after use. This lantern has two convenient light modes that provide a soft ambient glow, perfect for outdoor gatherings.

Read more: How To Repel Outdoor Flies

11. PIC Solar Insect Killer Torch and Accent Light

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Want a mosquito repeller that also works as a lawn accent light? This insect-killer torch does just that. It is a sustainable solar-powered mosquito control solution that offers a healthier alternative to standard oil-burning torches. This torch features a blue UV LED that helps attract and zap unwanted flying insects. It is also weatherproof and durable, perfect for various outdoor use.

How to Choose a Mosquito Repeller

When looking for an effective mosquito repellent, you need to consider a few critical factors to make sure the product is safe and practical for you. Here are a few questions to ask yourself before each mosquito repeller purchase.

What is Your Budget?

Mosquito repellents range in price from $10 to over $100. Therefore, it is best to consider the cost of the mosquito repellent and how often you will use it. For example, if you plan to use it for a few months or live in mosquito-infested areas, it may be best to invest in a higher-quality mosquito repellent that lasts longer. On the other hand, if you are using it for a few hours every week, you may get away with a more affordable but equally effective product.

How Much Space Do You Have?

Many people purchase mosquito repellents that are small and light to carry around. Others prefer to have large and bulky ones that stay in one place. If you want to keep mosquitoes away from your home or yard, a solar or electric-powered product is a great option. These products are also decorative and functional, keeping mosquitoes away without the need for harmful chemicals. On the other hand, if you plan to spend more time outdoors or go on a trip to places where mosquitoes are present, sprays and lotions are your best choice.

What Active Ingredients Are Used?

There are a variety of mosquito repellent ingredients that can be found in most products. When buying, it is crucial to take note of these ingredients because these are telling factors of how effective the product is and the side effects it could cause you.

One of the most popular and effective ingredients seen on most products nowadays is the N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide, or DEET. It works by killing mosquitoes on contact, so it does not have to be reapplied every time you use it. However, DEET may not work well for some people and may be unsafe for your skin, causing rashes and other diseases with long-term effects. Therefore, CDC recommends using products with less than or equal to 20% DEET on exposed skin to reduce mosquito bites and prevent allergies at the same time.

As an alternative, you may want to look for products with Picaridin active ingredients instead. It works by creating a chemical barrier that keeps the mosquito from biting you. They can come in lotions, sprays, and even patches. Other products also use a mixture of natural ingredients, including citrus oils and other plant extracts that repel mosquitoes without harming humans or pets. You may also find products made with essential oils that mosquitoes hate such as catnip, geranium, and lemongrass.

Conclusion

The local mosquito population in your area varies depending on the weather, time of year, and even day. Therefore, you need to keep a close watch on your surroundings and be prepared for when mosquitoes attack. In this day and age, the last thing you want is the possibility of spreading diseases to your family and an expensive hospital bill. So, protect yourself and your loved ones today by investing in a mosquito repellant to help you keep these pests at bay!