Mosquito Repellents… What are my options?

Citronella Candles, Sprays, & Bracelets

Let's dive a bit deeper into citronella's role in the grand scheme of bug busting. Citronella, extracted from the leaves and stems of the Cymbopogon plant, offers an interesting and natural mechanism—it cloaks human scents that are otherwise alluring to mosquitoes. It's akin to strategic camouflage in the wild. Yet, what's crucial to note is that while citronella suggests a sense of protection, its efficacy is somewhat limited. It doesn't repel; it masks. While it can mask scents, citronella candles have been found to be not very effective in repelling mosquitoes. As for the smaller citronella-based products like wristbands, recent research indicates that their protective radius is too constrained to offer full-body defense against these persistent pests. Here's the study for those wanting to delve into the details. In essence, while these options hold value, they're part of a larger mosaic of solutions necessary for comprehensive coverage—an aspect we're here to help with by offering in-depth, practical solutions for your outdoor comfort.

Mosquito Coils

Mosquito coils consist of a blend of various substances. In addition to the components that repel mosquitoes, there are binding agents that maintain the coil's structure and facilitate slow burning. These coils operate through two mechanisms; Those infused with insecticides are designed to eliminate or incapacitate mosquitoes, whereas those infused with aromatic elements like citronella aim to repel mosquitoes or reduce the likelihood of bites. While mosquito coils can be used with confidence when used as per the specified instructions, it is crucial to follow precautions diligently. Avoid indoor use, handle with care to prevent fire risks, and ensure they are not in direct contact with flammable materials or surfaces. And always read and follow the information on the products’ labels!

Mosquito Repellent Sprays with DEET

Since 1944, DEET has been a trusted recommendation by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention due to its effectiveness in repelling disease-carrying mosquitoes like those transmitting Zika. This active ingredient not only could deter mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and other biting insects but also confuses their antennae receptors, preventing them finding a host. Generally a repellent with 15% DEET can offer up to six hours of protection, while 25% DEET could provide up to 8 hours. While many products containing DEET are formulated to counter odors and greasiness, some may still leave you uncomfortable. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) asserts that when used as directed, DEET is safe for general use, even among children. Lastly, be careful with DEET around your sunglasses or rayon fabrics as it’s been known to dissolve plastics and vinyl.

FUN FACT:
Thermacell Science has a long-term collaboration with the group (lineage) that invented DEET for the military. We are working on the next new thing in repellents.

Mosquito Repelling Plants

For your yard or patio, consider the great option of planting mosquito-repelling herbs such as Basil, Catnip, citronella grass, garlic, lavender, lemon balm, lemongrass, marigold, pennyroyal, peppermint, rosemary, and scented geranium. These plants can be easily sourced at local garden centers. While studies mostly focus on the extracts or oils of these plants, rather than the plants themselves, their efficacy remains somewhat limited. The key lies in the scent; incorporating rosemary into your barbecue not only adds a pleasant aroma for humans and also may help deter mosquitoes. Additionally, you may want to look for plants that attract dragonflies, often known as "mosquito hawks." because dragonflies consume mosquitoes and play a crucial role in controlling mosquito larvae during their aquatic stage.

FUN FACT:
Did you know mosquitoes eat mosquitoes? Immature mosquitoes in the genus Toxorhynchites eat other mosquito larvae. As adults they are referred to as ‘elephant mosquitoes’ because their proboscis is curved - making them unable to bite animals, including humans.

Essential Oils

Essential oils like lemon eucalyptus, citronella, geranium, and peppermint are renowned for their bug-repelling abilities. Compounds such as citronellal and geraniol are the key players here. As with any products that are applied to the skin, please read the labels and use as directed for the best results.

Clothing Choices to Keep Mosquitos Away

Loose-fitting clothing is just what you need, but no need to go too loose and let those sneaky mosquitoes in! Remember, the more skin your clothes cover, the better off you'll be against mosquito bites. Wrap up in long pants, shirts, and higher necklines to shield exposed skin. While mosquitoes can poke through tight clothes, they usually can't get through most non-stretch fabrics.

Here's a bonus option: Permethrin treatment, a substance that fends off insects. It’s available to treat your clothing and some outdoor brands are selling outerwear pre-treated. Independent tests suggest these treated garments work just as well as applying regular clothes with repellent, but they might not have that strong chemical smell. Plus, no need to keep reapplying repellent when your clothes are already treated – just make sure to read your care labels to get the most out of the lifespan of your new mosquito repelling gear.

Protection for your Home

Discover the modern way to keep mosquitoes at bay with Thermacell's cutting-edge mosquito protection. Our scent-free portable devices are EPA-registered and use synthetic pyrethroids that mimic the insecticidal properties of natural pyrethrins found in chrysanthemum flowers. They create a protective zone of up to 15 feet for each device without the need to apply anything to your skin. Thermacell is known for it’s portable devices, but now also offers home installed devices which makes them the ideal home mosquito protection device.

The Thermacell LIV system creates an at-home network of modern mosquito repelling devices that can be seamlessly integrated into your backyard and conveniently controlled through your smartphone. Say goodbye to mosquito worries as LIV becomes a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts, entertainers, and anyone seeking peaceful moments. With easy installation and versatile expansion options, customize your protection to suit any space. Access advanced features like scheduling, notifications, and repellent level tracking through the LIV+ app, ensuring a mosquito protected oasis at your fingertips.

Portable Mosquito Protection

You've tested every trick to ward off mosquitoes, but tired of the scents, sprays, and smoke? It's time to try a modern fix - Thermacell portable repellers. Our scent-free devices are EPA registered, run on allethrin which is a synthetic substance. They create a 15- foot protection zone without touching your skin. Highly effective, super easy. There are two keys to powering them: a fuel cartridge and a mat refill, offering hours of protection. The active ingredient doesn't last forever, but refills are simple to swap in and very affordable. It's time to step out and conquer the great outdoors.