Bug protection options
- Bug spray: applied to skin as spray, lotion or wipes
- Insect repellent devices: airborne devices for campsites or patios
- Mosquito net clothing: head nets or jackets add an extra layer of protection
- Insect repellent for clothing: Treat clothing with permethrin or buy pretreated clothing
Use repellents with EPA-registered active ingredients
DEET
- Highly effective for broad protection against mosquitoes and ticks but can damage plastics and irritate skin; some may find it smelly or oily
DEET free options
- Picaridin: comparable to DEET in effectiveness; gentler on skin
- Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE): not as effective against ticks; smells better but not for young kids
- IR3535 works against flies, midges and sandflies but less effective for mosquitos and ticks
What concentration do you need?
- Higher concentrations have a longer duration
- More than 30% is often not necessary
Read full article: How to Choose Insect Repellent
