How I fought mosquitoes. Personal experience and tests on yourself

Remember how Pushkin said: “Oh, red summer! I would love you if it weren’t for the heat, the dust, the mosquitoes, and the flies.” This phrase is especially close to summer residents who have to take care of their plantings. At noon it’s good, there are no mosquitoes - in the heat they hide in the grass. But working in the heat is difficult, and also unsafe: you can easily get heatstroke, or even worse - a heart attack or stroke. The ideal time for righteous labors is morning or evening, which is called “when it’s cold.” But there’s a problem here too – hordes of mosquitoes!

It’s easy to get rid of them at home – fumigators help a lot. But on the street, the only way to avoid annoying insects is with special mosquito repellents. They come in different types:

• aerosols;
• sprays;
• emulsions;
• creams;
• ointments;
• lotions.

Most repellents are based on diethyltoluamide (DEET). This is the most toxic substance of all, but the most effective. It is included in the composition of the products in different concentrations - from 11 to 51%. Everything else is various fragrances and excipients.

The most convenient to use are aerosols. Most of them can be sprayed on both the body and clothing. Those containing the most active substance provide protection longer.

Which brand of mosquito repellent is best to choose?

The rating describes the products of 7 manufacturers who have the largest number of positive reviews and the best expert recommendations. Among these companies you can mainly see domestic manufacturers, and therefore the cost of goods is mainly low.

We invite you to get acquainted with the leaders:

• Mosquitall is a brand of inexpensive insect repellent products owned by. It creates effective and powerful pest control products with a high level of safety for humans. The use of proven ingredients, including natural ones, allows him to guarantee this.
• Gardex - the brand was so named based on the purpose of its products, which is to reliably protect people from pests. He has a line of products to prevent bites from ticks, mosquitoes, flies and other vermin. The brand's assortment includes repellers, traps and other offers for reliable prevention against insect attacks. Its repellents work for a long time and help solve the problem both outdoors and indoors, depending on the specific option.
• Off – this brand produces a popular line of products for protection against attacks by bloodsuckers. It has offers for both adults and children. They repel midges, ticks, mosquitoes and many other insects. The brand belongs to SC Johnson and is distinguished by the use of safe components that do not cause allergies among customers.
• Raptor - this company entered the Russian market as one of the first among competitors in the field of creating insecticides. She has both individual products to combat moths, crawling and flying insects, and universal preparations with a variety of effects. From the company's assortment, you can choose options for both outdoor and indoor use. It also produces fumigators, complete with special liquid and plates.
• Raid – behind this name there is an expert level of protection against parasites, which leaves them no opportunity for activity in homes. To combat pests, the company has developed mosquito repellents for fumigators in the form of plates and special odorless or scented liquids. All this is suitable for regular use, as it has a relatively natural composition that is not harmful to people.
• Thermacell is a world-renowned manufacturer of ultrasonic and electrical repellers for pest control. The company's line includes both stationary and traveling models, suitable for outdoor use. The desired effect is achieved using a gas cartridge by heating the repellent contained in the plate. The brand's devices are characterized by mobility, good assembly, durable casing and ease of use.
• Alex is a research and production company that produces animal and pest repellers. Its products reliably protect against bloodsucker bites, are safe for people and are easy to use. They show quick results and are suitable for use in rooms of different sizes. Some of them can be taken with you into nature - fishing, hunting, picnic. Participates in our rating from this one.
• Komaroff is a “family” brand whose products are suitable for both adults and children. It belongs to a company that specializes in creating repellents against insect bites. Its line includes creams, lotions, and sprays for application to clothing or skin, depending on the specific option.

Specialized products for repelling and killing mosquitoes

Mosquito exterminators

This category is the most effective and modern means of combating mosquitoes. Its main representatives are the so-called mosquito exterminators, which can exterminate insects over fairly large areas using specialized technical means. They are conventionally divided into several groups:

Carbon dioxide traps

Carbon dioxide trap

Carbon dioxide traps The operating principle of such devices is based on a complete imitation of warm-blooded objects (human or animal), including heating the air. For this purpose, a propane cylinder is connected to the device, the gas from which, burning in a small amount, produces this imitation.

Insects attracted by the heat, flying close to the heat source, are picked up by a stream of air created by a special fan. This air flow draws mosquitoes into a trap located nearby. The trap is a bag from which mosquitoes cannot escape and die in it.

The cost of such devices is quite high and amounts to several hundred dollars, however, their efficiency is one of the highest. One such trap can protect an area of ​​several hundred square meters from mosquitoes. This is quite enough to ensure a comfortable existence on an area equal to a medium-sized garden plot.

Electric traps

Electric trap

Electric traps A device capable of protecting slightly smaller areas (from 0.3 to 1 hundred square meters), however, it is much cheaper and works without a propane cylinder. The electric trap looks like a night light, the light of which attracts mosquitoes in the dark.

Mosquitoes, attracted by the light of such a trap, fall onto a metal mesh connected to a voltage source, where they die.

The device is absolutely safe for humans and can be used both in open spaces and indoors.

Ultrasound repellers

Ultrasound repellers

Ultrasonic repellers The operating principle of these devices is based on simulating the mosquito squeak that male mosquitoes emit at the moment of danger. Hearing this ultrasonic signal, mosquitoes begin to fly away from its source.

The effectiveness of such devices depends on the intensity and frequency of the ultrasound used. The most widely used repellers are from the following manufacturers:

• Tornado (frequency from up to 40 kHz)
• Typhoon (frequency 5 to 18 kHz)
• Veitek (30 – 40 kHz)

Depending on the power of the device, its range of action ranges from 2 m (battery-powered devices) to 15 m (with stationary power supply from 220 V).

The price of such devices is approximately half that of electric traps.

Rating of the best mosquito repellents

The TOP contains products recognized as the best by customers in reviews and experts, based on the testing results of our experts. Also, the decision to add a particular product to the rating was made based on the following criteria:

• Type of product – aerosol, spray, plate, cream, repeller;
• Packaging volume and cost-effectiveness;
• Naturalness and safety of the composition;
• Impact speed;
• Duration of the effect;
• Acceptable age;
• Maximum possible processing area;
• Recommended locations for use;
• Methods of application;
• Optimal frequency of application;
• Ease of processing;
• Versatility – what kind of insects does the drug protect against?

When analyzing the characteristics of mosquito repellents, we also paid attention to the ratio of the offered quality and the set price.

The best remedies for bedbugs

General information

The market for products that protect against insects is represented by a wide variety. Products include creams and ointments, aerosols, fumigators, plates, spirals, various types of electronic and ultrasound devices. Their use helps prevent mosquito bites and helps make being outdoors or indoors comfortable. Each of them has a different principle of influence, effect, and external signs. Today, not a single family can do without such funds. Due to the impressive assortment, it is extremely easy to get confused when purchasing. To choose the best insect repellent, you need to familiarize yourself with their main differences:

• Age indicators. Which category a product belongs to is indicated on the packaging. However, it is possible to determine this yourself by reading the composition. When it includes only oils and extracts, it is used from birth. Products for children are produced for sensitive and delicate skin.
• Release form. It determines the comfort of use. It will take more time to apply the product than an aerosol or spray. Most prefer not personal protective equipment, but repellers - spirals, plates that are ignited or inserted into a special device.
• Manufacturer. The most common brands of insect repellents are Mosquitall, Gardex, Raptor and Off!.
• Value for money.

During compilation, the following factors were taken into account:

• user characteristics;
• Effect;
• correspondence between cost and quality.

The best mosquito repellent sprays and aerosols

Such means act at the local level and are designed to scare the insect away from humans. They are intended for both home use and outdoor use. The composition should be sprayed onto clothing and skin. There are quite a lot of these offers on the market, but we have chosen the most effective, safe and versatile.

Aerosol Mosquitall Universal protection

This inexpensive product is versatile; it can be used both in a building, where it effectively protects against mosquitoes and flies throughout the night or day, and in the forest, but here its action lasts for a maximum of 3 hours. This option is suitable for preventing bites in children over 5 years of age. It is applied to exposed skin in small quantities, which saves on consumption. Thanks to its safe composition, it can even be used to treat clothes, although it is recommended to do this only outdoors.

Advantages

• Adequate smell;
• Easy to spray;
• Long lasting;
• Effectively repels blood-sucking insects;
• Protects against mosquito bites;
• Doesn't foam.

Flaws

• The packaging is not transparent;
• Volume – 150 ml;
• Works less time outdoors than indoors.

Mosquitall spray must be sprayed onto skin or clothing from a distance of 20-25 cm, holding the can at arm's length.

Aerosol repellent Gardex Naturin

...Testing of the mosquito and midge repellent "Gardex Naturin" showed that when applied to clothing, it protects against pests for 10 days, but for this, things must be stored in sealed packaging...

Expert opinion

Repellent "Gardex Naturin" is available in the form of an aerosol intended for application to the skin. With its help, you can protect yourself from the bites of horse flies, midges, mosquitoes and other insects. The duration of action of the product is 3 hours, the effect is bright, but after the specified time, as reviews show, it gradually weakens. The composition is safe for humans, it contains alcohol, butane, propane, but also contains natural ingredients - eucalyptus and lemongrass oil.

Advantages

• Smells nice;
• Economically used;
• Sprays well;
• Does not leave marks on skin and clothes;
• Reasonable price.

Flaws

• Volume – 100 ml;
• Doesn't fit very comfortably in the hand;
• There are contraindications for use.

Off Extreme

The budget product “Off Extreme” is similar in effect and cost to previous aerosols and sprays. The bottle contains 100 ml; its contents must be sprayed onto clothing or skin before going outside. The composition can also be used indoors, but in this case there may be complaints about a pungent odor. Its peculiarity lies in its rapid action, which appears immediately after application. On average, it lasts for 4 hours; drops on the fabric increases this period to 30 days in the case of mosquitoes, and up to 5 with ticks.

Advantages

• “Long-lasting” barrier;
• Prevents horseflies, fleas, mosquitoes and other insects from attacking;
• After application, the surface dries quickly;
• Frequent treatments are not required, it is enough to spray once every 3 days;
• Doesn't stain fabric.

Flaws

• Preservatives in the composition;
• Volume 100 ml.

The Off manufacturer recommends that areas of possible tick damage that are not protected by clothing be especially carefully treated, and the container must be shaken before use.

User rating

Aerosol DEET Aqua against midges, ticks and mosquitoes, 100 ml, yellow

1

Aerosol OFF! Extreme against mosquitoes and ticks, 100 ml

1

Aerosol Gardex Extreme against all flying blood-sucking insects and ticks, 150 ml

Aerosol Gardex Extreme against ticks, 150 ml

Aerosol Picnic Bio Active against mosquitoes and ticks with andiroba oil

Spray Reftamid 3 in 1 Maximum, 100 ml

Spray Mosquitall Protection against ticks in the wild, 100 ml

Aerosol Reftamid Anti-mite Extra, 100 ml

Aerosol Gardex Naturin against mosquitoes and ticks for clothing, 100 ml

Spray DR. KLAUS universal insect repellent Insect, 750 ml

The best mosquito repellent plates

This is the most common option among its kind. It is universal, since the plates can be used either together with a fumigator, which must be purchased separately, or independently. But this product is only suitable for indoor use; it makes no sense outdoors.

Raptor

Initially, Raptor mosquito repellent plates were created for fumigators, but they are also suitable for manual use. But then you will either have to ventilate the room, if there is a mosquito net on the windows, or endure the unpleasant smell. The effect of the product is almost instantaneous, however, it is not very convenient to treat several rooms at a time. There are 10 pieces sold in one package, and they are inexpensive. Reviews note that Raptor remains active for several hours after burning.

Advantages

• It has no odor in itself;
• Does not harm the respiratory system;
• Causes paralysis of the nervous system in insects;
• Close contact of mosquitoes with insecticide molecules;
• Eliminate buzzing and improve sleep quality.

Flaws

• Not very convenient to use without a special device;
• You can leave it in the fumigator overnight.

When using the Raptor mosquito and midge repellent, the active substances evaporate evenly, which guarantees an accurate and effective effect on insects.

Raid

These are another inexpensive but quite effective mosquito repellent plates. The insecticide has a eucalyptus aroma, which is pleasant to humans and irritating to insects. The product is intended for use in a fumigator and begins to act approximately 10 minutes after plugging the device into an outlet. One plate helps for about 8 hours; they are replaced quite simply. Raid is safe for health, does not cause allergies and can be used without interruption, including at night.

Advantages

• The packaging is enough for several times;
• Fast action;
• Eliminates all insects;
• Can be stored for a long time;
• Suitable for burning in hands;
• Compatible with all types of fumigators.

Flaws

• After turning on the device, you cannot open windows if there is no mesh on them;
• They do not give a 100% guarantee of no bites.

The peculiarity of the “Raid” plates is the need to use them simultaneously in all rooms (in fumigators), otherwise insects will migrate between rooms for a long time.

Mosquitall

Unlike sprays, Mosquitall plates are intended only for use in enclosed spaces; they cannot be used to save yourself from mosquitoes in nature. But they cope with their main task with dignity, providing strong and universal protection not only from this type of insect, but also from mosquitoes, ticks, and flies. The product is produced in Russia and is inexpensive, as for 10 pcs. It must be used with a fumigator from any manufacturer, which can even be left in the outlet unattended.

Advantages

• Soft impact;
• Almost 100% guarantee of positive results;
• Long lasting effect;
• Suitable for rooms of different sizes;
• A large number of plates in the package;
• Ease of use.

Flaws

• They don't protect you on the street.

Classification by composition

All sprays against mosquitoes and ticks can be divided into two groups: synthetic and natural based.

Naturally based

Various essential oils can be used as active substances. Extracts of rosemary, citronella, mint, juniper, lavender, basil, cedar, and tea tree have an anti-mosquito effect. Some of the products are also effective in combating ticks, for example, geranium, cedar, sandalwood. Natural-based sprays are often made independently at home.

However, the term “best” does not always apply to natural-based sprays. Essential oils have a mild effect and are not always able to cope with a huge number of mosquitoes. In addition, many of them increase the risk of allergic reactions.

A trial application should be carried out before use. To do this, a small amount of spray is sprayed onto the bend of the elbow and observed for 15 minutes. The absence of itching or redness indicates that the repellent can be used without concern.

Additional articles: Folk remedies for mosquitoes

Synthetic

Unlike natural preparations, synthetic-based sprays give the expected result much faster. 15 minutes after application, a person is provided with reliable protection. The duration of action of synthetic drugs is also longer, from this we can conclude that it is better to give preference to products based on active chemicals.

A mosquito repellent spray or aerosol may contain various active substances. Among them, DEET (diethyltoluamide) is considered the most effective. It is an organic chemical compound first synthesized in 1944 in the USA. His goal was to protect army men while in open areas.

DEET does not kill mosquitoes and other insects, but creates a vapor effect that repels them. At one time, many rumors were spread about the dangers of DEET and even the ban on this substance, but they turned out to be groundless. Today, the World Health Organization recommends the substance as effective and safe for human health.

In general, DEET does not cause side effects, but you need to be careful not to get it in your eyes. Effectively protects against other insects: midges, ticks, horse flies. Included in most sprays, which are rightfully considered the best.

Another synthetic substance that has a detrimental effect on mosquitoes is permethrin. It is a synthetic form of a natural insecticide extracted from Dalmatian chamomile. It has a high level of toxicity.

Today, a large number of repellents come on sale in the form of sprays and aerosols. We have prepared an analysis of the most popular and effective of them.

The best mosquito repellers

These devices are designed specifically to prevent attacks of blood-sucking insects on humans. Cartridges and plates from the kit are inserted into them, contact with the fumes of which repels mosquitoes, and not only them. The products described in this category cope well with such tasks.

Thermacell

Compared to effective mosquito repellents in the form of tablets and sprays, this is a more cost-effective option for regular use. The repeller is intended for use in rooms up to 20 square meters. m. Based on the principle of operation, it is similar to a fumigator, but you need plates or cartridges from the same manufacturer. All this is included in the basic kit. The product is harmless and can be used in the presence of children and allergy sufferers in the apartment. The repellent evaporates into the air throughout its duration, which is about 4 hours. The device does not depend on electricity and has a durable housing that can withstand mechanical stress.

Advantages

• Safe materials;
• Piezo ignition;
• Works up to 12 hours on one charge;
• Easy;
• Convenient to use;
• It also repels horse flies and midges.

Flaws

• Not cheap.

Since the Thermacell device is not connected to an outlet, it can be taken outdoors, camping, to the country, fishing, or hunting.

Typhoon LS 100

The inexpensive ultrasonic mosquito repeller “Typhoon LS 100” is interesting from the standpoint of the combination of price and quality. At an adequate cost, the device operates in two modes - audible and silent over an area of ​​up to 6 square meters. m. To combat parasites, several frequencies are available, switching between which is done by pressing a special button. The device is powered by two batteries, which can be easily replaced if necessary. This option is suitable for both carefree outdoor recreation and home use, but it is not designed for large rooms.

Advantages

• Harmless ultrasonic exposure;
• Mosquitoes quickly fly beyond the boundaries of the affected area;
• Insects lose orientation in the air and stop being very active;
• Ease of use;
• Practical for fishing and hiking;
• There is a strap;
• Ease of Management.

Flaws

• Only repels mosquitoes, but does not destroy them;
• It's not profitable to keep it on all the time.

Crayons, pencils, bracelets

Insect repellent

This group of products, despite its relatively low prevalence, has one important advantage over creams and sprays. This advantage lies in the fact that applying the repellent is very simple and quick, without getting your hands or clothes dirty.

In terms of performance characteristics (action time and safety), such products are practically in no way inferior to aerosol-based repellents. On average, their effect lasts for 4-5 hours.

In this segment, the most common products are from Gardex, Moskitol and Chicco.

Bracelets are made from durable fabric (most often microfiber), which is impregnated with various essential oils. Essential oils of the following plants are used:

• rosemary
• verbena
• lemon
• lavender

The width of the bracelets ranges from 10 to 15 mm, and their length can vary. Usually bracelets are equipped with a clasp, so that the length is adjusted to the thickness of the hand. The duration of action of such funds is 1-2 weeks. When the bracelet is not being worn, it should be stored in a sealed plastic bag.

Anti-mosquito bracer

For small children, there are ankle bracelets.

Manufacturers of bracelets are Gardex, Bagslock, BagStop and others.

Stickers are a relatively new product. They are small pieces of plaster, just like bracelets, soaked in essential oils of plants with a strong repellent aroma.

Mosquito stickers

These products are ideal protection for children, since their use is permitted starting from the age of two months. In addition, they are hypoallergenic. These patches can be applied directly to the skin. However, nothing prevents you from sticking them on children's clothes, furniture or strollers.

The duration of operation of such products is about 4 hours.

3

The best mosquito repellent creams

This is a traditional remedy that has been successfully used for many years. If there are no contraindications, it can be used to protect both adults and children. The main purpose of this is to prevent the insect from biting, rather than to kill it. Such creams are especially useful in nature, where instant action is required.

Mosquitall

This mosquito repellent is most effective for use in the forest. The cream has a good consistency and a safe formula, is easy to apply to the skin, is pleasant to it, is quickly absorbed and leaves no residue. In order to protect against pests, it is enough to lubricate open areas, including the face.

This option is suitable for both adults and children over 5 years old. The composition has a pleasant lemon aroma and “works” for 2-3 hours after use. The repellent contains many active substances, about 10%, which provides an effective effect on insects and allows you to give an almost 100% guarantee of preventing bites.

Advantages

• The price is not high;
• Ease of use;
• Performance;
• Versatility, protects not only from mosquitoes and flies;
• Availability in stores;
• Easily squeezed out of the tube;
• Does not spread over the surface.

Flaws

• The volume is not large – 75 ml;
• Frequent application required.

Komaroff "Family"

This product is formulated against mosquito bites to protect the entire family, including children over 5 years of age. The cream is neutral for the skin and repels insects for 2-3 hours. It also does a good job of preventing attacks from mosquitoes and midges. The product has quality and safety certificates, it does not irritate fabrics, leaves no marks and is easy to apply. It is convenient to use both in the forest, outdoors, and at home. For effective use, applying a thin layer is sufficient.

Advantages

• Natural ingredients in the composition;
• Good consistency;
• Nice texture;
• Soft impact;
• Begins to protect almost immediately after application.

Flaws

• Does not kill mosquitoes, but only repels them.

Komaroff “Family” is available in a 100 ml tube, which is enough for about six months of irregular use.

Products for indoor work

Indoor fumigators

The most common mosquito repellents today are indoor fumigators. Structurally, they are heaters that fill the air in the room with an insecticidal substance that kills mosquitoes. This substance is isolated from special plates or containers with liquid. In addition to mosquitoes, such fumigators cope well with numerous small flying midges, however, they are ineffective against house flies.

In a room, such a device is plugged into the network at night and works for several hours. Typically, one plate is enough to protect a room from mosquitoes for one night. A container with liquid insecticide is enough for one month.

The device is powered from a 220V power supply, however, there are models that can also be powered by batteries. Almost all well-known manufacturers of insecticides and repellents produce their own models of fumigators, plates and containers with liquid for them.

5

What is the best mosquito repellent to buy?

For use in the home, the best choice would be fumigator plates. If you need to go into the forest, it is better to give preference to creams or aerosols. Both outdoors and indoors are well protected by repellers. Regardless of this, the repellent must be safe for humans, which means that the presence of a large number of fragrances, dyes and other dangerous chemicals in the composition is not allowed.

Here is the best mosquito repellent to buy, taking into account the purpose of the product:

• Mosquitall spray is suitable for treating children's clothing.
• You can use Raptor or Raid plates with fumigators.
• In the forest, you can apply Gardex Naturin aerosol to your skin.
• If you need to prevent tick attacks in addition to mosquito protection, then Off Extreme will do the job.
• Mosquitall plates are suitable for indoor use.
• You can repel mosquitoes using Thermacell or Typhoon LS 100 devices.
• For children over 5 years old, Mosquitall or Komaroff Family cream will be just right.

When choosing an effective mosquito repellent, it is best to focus on the conditions of its use (indoors or outdoors), and with this in mind, buy a suitable option.

Comparison table of characteristics

In order to compare the products presented, we recommend that you study the table in the article below.

The concentration of the main active ingredient is much lower than stated in the labeling

Research has shown that in 7 brands the dosage of DEET is less than that stated in the labeling, that is, manufacturers do not add it to the composition in the required quantity. These are repellent brands: Absolut, Taezha, Argus, CRUSH, Go Out, Nadzor and Super BAT. The greatest discrepancy with the declared concentration is with the Super BAT spray: the label promises 20% DEET, but in fact the concentration is 6 times less - 3%. It's not surprising that this product lasts less than an hour (although the label promises protection for up to 4 hours).

In addition, the manufacturer of the Nadzor product diluted DEET with cheap dimethyl phthalate and did not indicate this in the labeling. In fact, the spray had 4 times less DEET (only 4.5%), but undeclared dimethyl phthalate - 6.7%.

In Russia there are no standards for the reliability of repellent labeling. Indicators are taken from European standards and included in the leading standard of Roskachestvo

Smoke bombs

In summer, activists like to go on hikes. How to protect yourself from mosquitoes in the forest, calmly chat with friends and sleep in a tent? Pre-treat the area against blood-sucking insects.

An ancient remedy for mosquitoes was fire smoke. But the radius of such protection is small, and the fire will have to be put out before going to bed. Manufacturers took the method as the basis for the production of products against blood-sucking insects.

A smoke bomb is a tin can containing crushed and pressed wood with an insecticide (usually permethrin). Poisonous smoke appears after 1-2 minutes. The protection radius is 3-5 meters, so 3-4 jars are required to treat a large area.

You can’t stand near a checker, otherwise you might get poisoned yourself. To prevent the jar from tipping over, it must be placed on a hard and flat surface: a plate, a wooden board, a flat stone.

The advantages of smoke bombs are long-term protection from mosquitoes (up to 3-5 days), the destruction of other harmful insects (wasps, horseflies, ticks, midges), and the disadvantages are an unpleasant odor and the likelihood of causing harm to health.

Examples of good smoke bombs

• “Quiet evening” (500 rubles);
• “Mukhoyar” (140 rubles);
• “Help” (130 rubles).