Mosquitoes are repelled by a variety of substances, both chemical and natural. Here are some effective mosquito repellents:
Chemical Repellents
- DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide): Widely used and proven safe and effective for long-lasting protection against mosquito bites
- Picaridin: Slightly more effective than DEET, it repels mosquitoes from landing altogether
- IR3535: A synthetic repellent related to natural compounds, effective for up to 2 hours
- Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE) and PMD: Plant-based oils approved by CDC, providing about 2 hours of protection. OLE should not be used on children under 3 years
Natural Plant-Based Repellents
- Lemon eucalyptus oil: One of the best-known natural repellents, effective and CDC-approved
- Citronella: Derived from lemongrass, commonly used in candles and sprays; it has a citrusy scent unpleasant to mosquitoes
- Lavender: The scent repels mosquitoes and also soothes skin
- Peppermint: Its minty fragrance deters mosquitoes and relieves itching from bites
- Basil: The essential oils emit a strong aroma that mosquitoes dislike
- Garlic: Both consumption and topical use can repel mosquitoes due to its strong odor
- Lemon balm: A mint family plant with a strong lemon scent that mosquitoes avoid
- Marigold: Its pungent aroma keeps mosquitoes away and adds beauty to gardens
- Catnip: Contains nepetalactone, which can be up to 10 times more effective than DEET in repelling mosquitoes
- Rosemary: Aromatic herb that can repel mosquitoes, especially when burned or used in sprays
- Eucalyptus: Its oil interferes with mosquitoes’ senses and repels them effectively
- Other natural oils: Cinnamon oil, thyme, clove oil, neem oil, and fennel have shown some repellent properties
Additional Notes
- Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide from breath, so repellents work by masking or interfering with their ability to detect humans
- Many natural repellents require frequent reapplication and may not last as long as chemical repellents
- Planting mosquito-repelling plants around your home can reduce mosquito presence outdoors
For best protection, use EPA-registered insect repellents containing proven active ingredients like DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, and consider natural options as supplementary measures
