With West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis becoming more prevalent in the United States, homeowners want and need to become familiar with reading mosquito repellent labels now more than ever. 

    There are dozens of insect-repellent formulations and hundreds of products available today. When uncertain, it is best to follow the recommendations of experts.

    The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends using products containing active ingredients registered with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These products include recognizable brand names like OFF, Cutter, and ThermaCELL — an area repellent with up to 98% effectiveness that is gaining popularity. Area repellents are a good choice for those who do not want to apply repellents directly to their skin.

    The EPA evaluates products for efficacy and potential human health and environmental impacts before registration. EPA registration means the agency expects the product to not cause adverse effects to human health or the environment when used according to label directions. 

    When choosing a repellent, the active ingredient is the top factor to consider:


    Active Ingredients in the Best Mosquito Repellents

    EPA-registered mosquito repellents have demonstrated high efficacy and contain active ingredients such as:

    A synthetic version of a natural insecticide found in chrysanthemum flowers. It’s an odor-free alternative to lotions and sprays applied to skin. Allethrin is an area repellent dispersed into the air with up to 98% effectiveness against no-see-ums, mosquitoes, and black flies.

    (N-diethyl-m-toluamide) DEET repellents are safe for adults and children, but you must follow the directions. Do not apply DEET repellents to kids’ hands as it could get in their mouth or eyes. The CDC cautions using high-concentration DEET repellents carefully as they may harm children.

    (KBR 3023) Creates a barrier on skin to block insects from locating humans. Picaridin underwent testing against mosquitoes, flies, and ticks in field and lab studies. It provides protection equal to or longer than identical DEET concentrations. Lab tests demonstrated efficacy against ticks.

    [p-menthane 3,8-diol (PMD)] Oil of lemon eucalyptus is a plant-based repellent. Recent studies found it defends against U.S. mosquitoes similar to low-concentration DEET repellents.

    This repellent is derived from the amino acid beta-alanine. IR3535 has been deemed safe for infants as young as 2 months old by the CDC.

    This oil comes from Cymbopogon grasses. On its own, citronella oil provides short-term protection, up to 30 minutes. It is often combined with other ingredients to extend the duration.


    When to Use Different Repellents

    Now that you know about the different types of mosquito repellents, let’s take a look at when to use each one for maximum protection from those mosquitos we all hate:

    biking
    Image Credit: Canva
    • Hiking, biking, or walkingin cooler weather: Treat your clothing ahead of time with permethrin for greater protection. It’s effective against ticks, mosquitoes, and other insects, and it retains its effectiveness after multiple wash cycles. This approach is especially useful, given the debate about allethrin vs permethrin in the realm of insect repellents. Do not apply permethrin directly to skin.
    patio
    Image Credit: Canva
    • Enjoying the patio, camping, spectator events, and gardening at dusk/dawn: Portable ThermaCELL products using allethrin create a 15×15 ft protection zone lasting hours. The lanterns and handheld units have up to 98% effectiveness against biting insects and are affordable. ThermaCELL’s mosquito repellent lantern earned top marks from the Good Housekeeping Institute.
    throwing football
    Image Credit: Canva
    • Playing sports at dusk or dawn: For 3+ hours outside with intense biting, choose a repellent with over 20% DEET.

    Safety Tips for Repellent Use

    Before applying it, I recommend familiarizing yourself with the following tips for using mosquito repellent safely:

    • Apply repellent anytime you’ll be outside for over 10 minutes — that’s long enough to get bitten.
    • Products with more than 50% DEET do not offer additional protection compared to lower concentrations.
    • For less outdoor time, repellents under 20% DEET, 7% picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus can provide adequate protection.
    • Spray repellent on clothes instead of skin whenever possible for greater safety and duration.
    • Do not spray repellent directly on your face — spray on your hands and then apply sparingly to your face. Avoid eyes and mouth.
    • After returning indoors, wash treated skin with soap and water.
    • Check repellent labels for duration of protection times. Reapply as directed on the label.

    For more information, visit the ThermaCELL website at mosquitorepellent.com


    So, Which Mosquito Repellent Works Best?

    There is no definitive “best” mosquito repellent for every situation. Consider when and how long you’ll be outdoors, who will be using the repellent, and if you prefer to spray skin directly or treat clothes and surrounding air space. There are also green mosquito repellents to consider.

    Repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus are all effective options. Compare protection times, safety considerations, and ease of use to choose the right mosquito repellent for your needs. Area repellents like ThermaCELL allow bite protection without directly applying repellent on skin. Following recommendations from experts like the CDC and EPA can help narrow your choices.

    If you plan on spending time hanging out somewhere there are lots of mosquitos, then I recommend looking into the best foggers and mosquito sprays in addition to repellent.


    FAQs About Mosquito Repellents

    How long does mosquito repellent last?

    Duration varies based on active ingredient, concentration, weather conditions, and mosquito population. DEET above 20% can shield for 5 to 8 hours. Picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus protect for 2 to 3 hours typically. Reapply repellent according to label directions.


    Is DEET safe for kids?

    DEET can be used on children older than 2 months when following product instructions. Don’t apply to hands or faces. CDC recommends no more than 30% DEET for kids.


    What repels mosquitoes the best?

    DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus are most effective and recommended by CDC. Area repellents like ThermaCELL work well without applying repellent directly onto skin.


    Do mosquito-repellent bracelets work?

    Mosquito-repellent bracelets have limited effectiveness. Repellent must volatilize into the air to create a protective zone, which wristbands cannot do. Sprays, lotions, or area repellents work better.


    What is the most effective natural mosquito repellent?

    Recommended by CDC, oil of lemon eucalyptus is the most effective plant-based repellent. Its protection time is shorter than DEET but longer than other natural options.


    Editorial Contributors
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    Jordan Tyler Quinn Farkas

    Expert Writer & Reviewer

    Jordan Tyler Quinn Farkas is a globetrotting content writer hailing from the USA. With a passion for pest control, he brings a unique perspective to his writing from his early years working for one of the largest pest control companies in America. Throughout his early 20s, Jordan gained valuable experience and knowledge in the field, tackling pest infestations head-on and ensuring the well-being of countless homes.

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    Andrew Foligno

    Andrew Foligno is an editor for Today’s Homeowner, with over 6 years of experience working in digital marketing. He started his career as a content writer at an agency, covering industries such as HVAC, plumbing, painting, lawn care, and more. Soon, he was promoted to an editor position where he oversaw a team of writers before moving on to other facets of digital marketing. When he isn’t working, Andrew enjoys going to the gym to be active, as well as going to the movies to unwind.

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