Looking for info about mosquito repellents

qualityshopper · ‎12-04-2011

I'm trying to figure out what I can use this summer to keep mosquitoes away so that I can sit out on the porch and relax. I've never done this before but am wanting to do so now. My problem is that I'm one of those people that mosquitoes really target. I can't even take the trash out (which obviously doesn't take very long to do) without getting bitten.

Even though repellents like Deet and Picaridin are quite effective, I would rather not put these things on my skin. I might be OK with lemon eucalyptus oil but would like to know more about it from any of you who have used it.

In particular, I would like to know about the Thermacell Mosquito Repellent devices. Some reviews claim that this brand's products really work, while others say they're totally worthless. If any of you have tried this, would love to hear how they worked for you.

NickAtNite · ‎11-05-2023

I don't know about topicals but you could also look at putting some container pots of mosquito-repelling plants on your porch. Lemon grass, citronella geraniums, mint are a few that come to mind. If you search 'plants that repel mosquitoes' I'm sure there are a few more. Just a thought.

JeanLouiseFinch · ‎10-03-2011

This was my thought, too, @NickAtNite. I had to find my picture. @qualityshopper - there are also bracelets with repellents so you wouldn't have to coat your body in chemicals.

CalminHeart · ‎03-09-2010

I spray yard guard or something like that under my deck. It makes a big difference for me.

I don't want to put things on my skin in case it rubs off on my dog or he licks me. I keep my dog inside for 15 minutes after spraying. He can't get under my deck.

Marp · ‎03-09-2010

I've had the most success with a Dynatrap. It works for a variety of insects not just mosquitos.

I haven't used a Thermacell type product mostly because my understanding is it has to be turned on for a few minutes before it becomes effective and that the repellent pads only last a few hours before needing to be replaced.

Since the Dynatrap is always on I don't have a "wait time" before being protected.

The eyes through which you see others may be the same as how they see you.

charsha · ‎03-28-2010

@JeanLouiseFinch Thank you for this post, I have saved this for when I put container and yard plants out this spring/summer. I don't have much of an issue with mosquitos, as I have a nice stream running in my backyard that keeps the mosquitos busy. However, I always have someone visiting who the mosquitos like to lunch on.

Kachina624 · ‎03-10-2010

@qualityshopper. Is it possible you could have your porch screened in? That's the only sure-fire method of eliminating pests without using products. It then becomes your summer living room.

New Mexico☀️Land Of Enchantment

Zhills · ‎11-15-2011

I have had Scented Geraniums growing outside for years and bugs are not a problem!

Lived near the ocean and could sit outside. They Work!

Walmart does sell them. They are a beautiful plant, too!

qualityshopper · ‎12-04-2011

Thanks everyone for the suggestions. Unfortunately, I'm not able to take advantage of most of them. For instance, Dynatrap. My friend has these and loves how they've helped get rid of bugs, but I have no place to plug one in. I would love to have a screened-in porch, but can't afford. The plants are a great idea, but no place to plant. However, it might be possible to put some geraniums in pots on my porch, but I"ll need to figure out how many I would need and whether I'd have enough room. And, finally the bracelets. When I first came across those online, I thought great! But, then I read that they don't really work. The same apparently holds true for citronella candles.

I'm still wondering about the lemon eucalyptus oil and the Thermacell devices. Wondering if there are any undesirable effects from using the oil. Same with Thermacell--I not only wonder about whether those devices even work, but whether the repellent that comes out of them is safe. Right now, it looks like the safest thing to try would be the geranium plants, depending on how many I'd need. Of course, from what I understand, there are also jackets out there made out of some kind of netting (?) material I could put on, but I don't think that would feel too great in the summer.

I'll keep looking for things I can try. Again, thanks everyone for the suggestions.