TOP 7 best mosquito repellents: choice of experts and practitioners

Updated: 02/26/2021 14:03:23

Expert: Ostrovsky Nikolay Vladmirovich

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

We are looking forward to warm weather so we can relax in nature, breathe fresh air, and enjoy the beauty of the spring forest. But one circumstance overshadows everything - the presence of mosquitoes, which also appear during this period. It’s not just their annoying buzzing that irritates others. Insect bites are quite painful, and after them redness forms and unbearable itching appears. Special means will help protect against them not only outdoors, but also indoors.

Mosquito repellents are non-contact and individual.

The first include traps, spirals and fumigators. Electronic devices do not contain any toxic substances, are safe for newborns, and therefore are very relevant for the protection of young children. Spirals are used outdoors. The unpleasant smell repels insects, creating a conditional barrier. Fumigators are used with plates or liquid. They are plugged into an outlet and their effect lasts a very long time.

The second type is creams, sprays, lotions, pencils, aerosols and gels

. They are applied directly to the skin, where a dense layer is formed and a peculiar odor that is unpleasant for mosquitoes. It masks the natural scent of the body's skin, causing insects to become even more disinterested in the object. The active ingredients of repellents can be both chemical and natural components.

What mosquito repellents are most effective and at the same time safe for human health? The experts of our magazine tried to answer this question by presenting an overview of the best mosquito protection products available today. The selection took into account the results of independent research and reviews from real users, which confirmed their positive qualities.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

Features of using sprays

You can often read negative reviews about repellents, about how difficult it is to find the best mosquito spray that can reliably repel annoying insects.
Indeed, there are low-quality tools, but often users do not know how to use them correctly. This raises doubts about whether sprays against mosquitoes and ticks help. Get rid of mosquitoes in your country house
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In order for the drug to become a real protector, we will figure out how to choose a mosquito spray. To do this, you need to carefully read the information on the label, which should indicate:

• product compliance with national and international standards;
• duration of the protective effect;
• composition (active substance);
• mode of application;
• precautionary measures.

Even the best spray against mosquitoes and ticks in nature does not always protect against other blood-sucking insects. If you want to provide yourself with maximum protection, especially in nature, choose drugs with a universal effect. This information, along with the composition of the mosquito spray, should also be indicated on the label or in the instructions.

When using the spray, it is important to follow certain rules:

• Apply to skin with slow, smooth movements;
• evenly moisturize areas of the skin not protected by clothing - for example, the bends of the elbows or ankles;
• do not allow children to use the product independently;
• on cotton clothes, the spray can be applied on top of the fabric; if it contains DEET, it cannot be sprayed on synthetic fabrics;
• After treating clothing with liquid repellent, it must be washed.

Even the best mosquito repellent spray can be dangerous if used incorrectly. Care must be taken to ensure that the active substance does not get into the eyes when spraying.

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If you need to treat your child's skin, first apply the product to your hands, and then gently spread it on the child's face or other parts of the body, avoiding the area around the eyes.

Related articles: The best mosquito repellent sprays for children

Weather conditions must be taken into account. In hot weather, it is advisable to apply sprays and aerosols over clothing so as not to provoke allergic reactions. Tubes and cans should not be left in a place exposed to direct sunlight, otherwise the active substance will lose its properties.

Aerosols and mosquito repellent sprays have a number of advantages over other mosquito repellent methods. They are quick and easy to apply, inexpensive, can be used in open areas, do not have a toxic effect, and are therefore safe for human health.

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.