After evaluating dozens of products for their effectiveness, longevity of protection, and ease of use, we determined that the best overall product is the Picaridin Insect Repellent from Sawyer Products. Here are our choices for the best mosquito repellents to keep the outdoor pests at bay. We determined that Sawyer’s product, which uses 20 percent picaridin, is the best overall mosquito repellent because it is easy to apply, available in a lotion or spray, and has no strong fragrance. While the manufacturer asserts on the container that the product offers 12-hour protection, we noted that using it before attending an evening outdoor beer garden gave us effective relief in a setting with visible mosquitoes for more than 6 hours. Sawyer also features smaller sizes, creating a great option for campers, those traveling without luggage, or consumers wanting to try before purchasing a larger quantity. Price at time of publish: $12 However, the lemon packs a serious odiferous punch, resembling dishwashing detergent. Also, although this is a natural alternative to products containing DEET, it is not advised for use on pets. Price at time of publish: $11 These citronella-scented incense sticks burn for an hour apiece, so an ideal use would be to add mosquito-repellent potted plants to your deck or patio, and stick three of these into them for up to 3 hours of relief. The scent is lighter than that of most citronella candles, and you can easily place them out of view. However, avoid locating them directly in line of seated guests, as the smoke can be irritating. Price at time of publish: $9 Note that the closer you are, the more you’re protected, so you need several for a large deck or garden space. Consider it a way to combine comfort with illumination. Price at time of publish: $19 The active ingredient is allethrin, which is derived from the chrysanthemum and used as a broad-spectrum pesticide. At one time this and its parent chemicals, called pyrethroids, were suspected to cause asthma and allergies. But the EPA determined in 2009 that there were no clear indications of this. Price at time of publish: $20 The easy-to-install SolaMist, including a solar panel for charging, rides on wheels, making it easy to move to where you need it. It switches on and off via Wi-Fi. Also, the SolaMist is aptly named, as it is 100 percent powered by solar energy, which qualifies for a 30 percent federal tax solar rebate. It should be noted that the herbal scent can be noticeable. Price at time of publish: $449 Wondercide is sold in a ready-to-use format, making it easy to apply in little time. As with most natural repellents and pest control, it is most effective the more consistently it is applied. So if you miss a month, you might see ticks and mosquitoes return. Price at time of publish: $35 While pyrethroids are derived from plants, it is best to avoid inhaling the smoke; spacing the coils about 10 feet apart provides an optimal coverage range. You also can hang the coils, placing them farther out of view. This may be helpful if the smell is off-putting. Price at time of publish: $22 Natural repellents derive from plant-based oils a variety of insects, especially biting flies, find unappealing. Oils may include rosemary, lemongrass, lemon balm, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and citronella. Natural insect repellents work great for those with sensitive skin and who are concerned about synthetic chemicals’ environmental effects. Keep in mind that those aren’t as long-lasting as their chemical-based counterparts. Generally, chemical mosquito repellents are synthetic versions of plant compounds, such as picaridin and permethrin, or DEET based. Chemicals, which mask your scent from mosquitoes, typically offer longer protection from bites than natural ingredients. However, the chemicals can be more dangerous if inhaled, ingested, or used in large quantities. Carefully read the label to ensure the optimal dosage. Candles, coils, and incense sticks work under the same principle as skin-applied products and often contain the same chemicals. The combination of scent and smoke is helpful in keeping biting insects at bay. Candles are ideal for small spaces; coils and incense sticks can cover longer distances. Be sure to read manufacturers’ recommendations for spacing to ensure you have enough for your location. Misters, shields, and barrier sprays use the same chemicals as skin-applied repellents but cover a larger area. Misters create a fog that covers substantial square footage and offers lasting protection. They can contain natural or synthetic chemicals and usually need reapplying between uses. Resembling lanterns, shields have disposable cartridges, best used in small spaces. You apply barrier sprays directly around the perimeter of the targeted space. Like misters, sprays can be plant- or synthetic-based.
Ingredients
Mosquito repellent ingredients can be split into several groups, including DEET, permethrin, natural oils, and picaridin. DEET, permethrin, and picaridin are synthetic chemicals and are generally more effective than essential oils. However, they also may pose environmental risks and are not meant to be applied excessively. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends caution when pets and children are nearby. Although safe, essential oils may trigger allergic reactions, so always read through the warnings and directions on the packaging. Picaridin and DEET are the most commonly used chemical insect repellents and generally have longer windows of effectiveness. Picaridin is rising in popularity due to its apparent greater effectiveness at keeping mosquitos away from you. Generally, permethrin has been found safe when used to treat clothing since it is poorly absorbed through the skin. However, when contacted with permethrin that is sprayed or fogged, some animals, especially cats, may become anxious and develop more serious systems.
Longevity
Ideally, a mosquito repellent should protect you as long as you are outdoors. All repellents should always cite longevity, as well as how many times you can apply them.
Ease of Use
With so many repellents to choose from, picking one that is easy to use is essential. Personal repellents are the easiest: You just spray or roll it onto potentially exposed skin. They should leave no residue or make your skin sticky. Candles, incense sticks, shields, and coils are equally easy to deploy, performing well atop tables, spaced several feet from guests. Barrier sprays may require mixing with other ingredients such as water and oils. They also require optimum time and weather conditions for the highest effectiveness. Misters, which involve coils and nozzles, may be difficult to put together. In addition, they may require setup through your cell phone Wi-Fi or Bluetooth.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Amanda Rose Newton, an entomologist who contributes to The Spruce as a freelance writer and garden reviewer. She personally tested the products to advise those with different needs, yards, and values on pest control. To compile her recommendations, Amanda Rose tested each product three times, on different evenings. She also considered the difficulty in application/setup, positioning, and tested the claimed ranges. In addition, she wore or took repellents to various locations and outings to test feasibility of use and storage.
