When the weather is warm and pleasant, spending time outdoors is a great way to relax and enjoy the fresh air. However, mosquitoes can quickly ruin a pleasant outdoor experience. These pesky insects are not only annoying, but they can also transmit diseases like West Nile virus.
Fortunately, there are a variety of mosquito repellents available to help keep these pests at bay. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best outdoor mosquito repellents, according to Consumer Reports.
DEET
One of the most common and effective mosquito repellents is DEET. This chemical compound is found in many different products, including sprays, lotions, and wipes.
When applied to the skin, DEET creates a barrier that mosquitoes are unable to penetrate. As a result, they are unable to bite and transmit diseases.
DEET is safe for most people to use, but it can cause skin irritation in some individuals. It is also important to avoid using DEET products on broken or irritated skin.
Picaridin
Picaridin is another effective mosquito repellent that works in a similar way to DEET. This compound is found in many different products, including sprays, lotions, and wipes.
When applied to the skin, picaridin creates a barrier that mosquitoes are unable to penetrate. As a result, they are unable to bite and transmit diseases.
Picaridin is safe for most people to use, but it can cause skin irritation in some individuals. It is also important to avoid using picaridin products on broken or irritated skin.
Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus
Oil of lemon eucalyptus is a natural mosquito repellent that can be found in both lotions and sprays. This oil works by creating a barrier on the skin that mosquitoes are unable to penetrate.
When used correctly, oil of lemon eucalyptus can be just as effective as DEET and picaridin at repelling mosquitoes. However, it is important to note that this oil can be toxic if ingested, so it should not be used on children under the age of three.
Citronella Candles
Citronella candles are a popular mosquito repellent, but they are not as effective as some of the other options on this
Outdoor Mosquito Repellents Comparison Table
Last updated on November 20, 2022 7:04 am
Top Outdoor Mosquito Repellents Ratings By Consumer Reports March 2023
Below is the list of top Outdoor Mosquito Repellents with a detailed guide that you can consider in your purchase:
Thermacell Patio Shield Mosquito Repeller, Blue; Highly Effective Mosquito Repellent for Patio; No Candles or Flames, DEET-Free, Scent-Free, Bug Spray Alternative; Includes 12-Hour Refill
$19.49
in stock
20 new
from $12.75
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of November 20, 2022 7:04 am
Features
- EFFECTIVE MOSQUITO PROTECTION: Thermacell Mosquito Repellent Patio Shield creates a 15-foot zone of protection against mosquitoes. Use this sleek repeller on patios, decks, pools, and more. Turn It On… Mosquitoes Gone.
- HEAT-ACTIVATED TECHNOLOGY: No cords or batteries. Powered by a safe and compact 12-hour fuel cartridge. Emits scent-free repellent that drives away mosquitoes. Unscented repellent mats last up to 4 hours each and change color when time to replace.
- EFFECTIVELY REPEL WITHOUT SPRAY OR SCENT: Repel mosquitoes without DEET sprays or lotions on your skin. No smoke, flames, or harsh odors like citronella. Enjoy max protection in 15 minutes. Device is compatible with all mat and fuel refills, including multi-insect repellent.
- PLANT-INSPIRED REPELLENT FORMULA: Our synthetic allethrin formula is inspired by repellent extracts found in plants. Independently tested and EPA reviewed for safety & effectiveness. People and pet friendly.
- THERMACELL GUARANTEE: Extend warranty to 2 years with registration (automatic 1-year warranty included). Backed by Thermacell Guarantee. See packaging for details. Includes repeller, 12-hour fuel cartridge, and three repellent mats.
Cutter Backyard Bug Control Spray Concentrate, Mosquito Repellent, Kills Mosquitoes, Fleas & Listed Ants, 32 fl Ounce
$10.27 in stock
26 new
from $5.99
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of November 20, 2022 7:04 am
Features
- KILLS FAST: Kills mosquitoes, listed ant types, fleas and other listed insects
- QUICKFLIP HOSE-END SPRAYER: Hose-end-sprayer activates spray at the flip of a switch – just grip, flip and go
- LASTS ALL SUMMER: Controls up to 12 weeks against house crickets, carpenter ants, harvester ants, lady beetles and earwigs
- COVERAGE: 32oz Treats up to 5,000 square feet of lawn; Contains 2.5% Permethrin
- EASY SETUP, NO MIXING REQUIRED: New QuickFlip hose-end sprayer activates spray at the flip of a switch. Just attach the sprayer to a garden hose to treat your lawn, landscape and outdoor surfaces where insects hide
Cliganic 10 Pack Mosquito Repellent Bracelets, DEET-Free Waterproof Bands
$9.99 in stock
Amazon.com
as of November 20, 2022 7:04 am
Features
- DEET-Free, Made With Essential Oils – Our repellent bracelets are made with essential oils: Geraniol Oil, Lemongrass Oil and Citronella Oil. Essential oils have been found to repel mosquitoes.
- 10 Resealable Bags – Each mosquito repellent bracelet is individually wrapped in a resealable bag, keeping it fresh and increase the life span.
- One Size Fits All – Cliganic repellent bracelets are fully adjustable, stretchy and easily fits.
- Perfect For Outdoor, Waterproof – Best for indoor, outdoor and travel. Keep it together with your picnic backpack accessories. Enjoy the outdoors without worrying about pesky mosquito bites.
- For Adults & Kids - When used as directed
W4W Mosquito Repellent Coils - Outdoor Use Reaches Up to 10 feet - Each Coil Burns for 5-7 Hours (Three Pack Contains 12 coils & 6 Coil Stands)
$11.95
in stock
2 new
from $11.95
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of November 20, 2022 7:04 am
Features
- 3 Pack (Contains 12 coils & 6 coil stands)
- Each Coil Burns for 5 - 7 Hours
- One Coil covers up to 10 feet
- These Mosquito insect repellent Should be Used only outdoors. It is perfect to use for Patios, porches, Camping trips, Pool areas, backyards and any outdoor activities
Coleman Scented Outdoor Citronella Candle with Wooden Crackle Wick - 6 oz
$5.70
in stock
9 new
from $5.70
2 used from $4.70
2 used from $4.70
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of November 20, 2022 7:04 am
Features
- One Coleman Campfire Scented Citronella Candle with Wooden Crackle Wick - 6 oz Tin
- This campfire scented outdoor candle with a wooden candle wick makes a crackling fire sound
- This citronella candle has a delightful campfire scent
- Citronella candle packaged in a nostalgic embossed tin for easy, safe use of your outdoor candle.
- Add to your camping supplies along with your camping candle lantern or other citronella candles
Repel 100 Insect Repellent, Repels Mosquitoes, Ticks, Flies and Fleas For Up To 10 Hours, (Pump Spray) 4 fl Ounce
$17.09
in stock
Amazon.com
as of November 20, 2022 7:04 am
Features
- REPELS: Create a barrier against mosquitoes, including those that may transmit the Zika, West Nile, Dengue and Chikungunya viruses, ticks, gnats, biting flies, chiggers and fleas.
- FORMULATED FOR SEVERE INSECT CONDITIONS: Contains 98.11% DEET for protection in heavily infested conditions.
- PROTECTS FOR UP TO 10 HOURS: Enjoy the outdoors without the bite – provides long-lasting protection, so you don't have to limit your adventure because of bugs.
- ALSO REPELS TICKS, GNATS, BITING FLIES, CHIGGERS & FLEAS: Create a barrier against annoying bugs that can spoil the outdoors.
- PUMP SPRAY: Perfect for outdoor travel – the compact size stores perfectly with whatever adventure gear you're taking that day.
Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent 4 Ounces, Repels Mosquitoes Up To 6 Hours
$4.97 in stock
19 new
from $4.97
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of November 20, 2022 7:04 am
Features
- MADE WITH OIL OF LEMON EUCALYPTUS: This DEET-free insect repellent provides you with protection during adventures in the backyard and on the go.
- REPELS MOSQUITOES FOR UP TO 6 HOURS: This repellent keeps you and your family protected for hours, so the fun doesn't have to end.
- REFRESHING SCENT: This DEET-free personal repellent leaves you with a cool, refreshing scent so you don't have to put up with the usual bug spray smell.
- REPELS: Create a barrier against mosquitoes, including those that may transmit the Zika, West Nile, Dengue and Chikungunya viruses.
- NOT GREASY OR STICKY: Formulated with oil of lemon eucalyptus to provide protection without leaving your skin feeling sticky or greasy.
Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent, No DEET Mosquito Repellent, 4 fl Ounce (Pump Spray)
$4.68 in stock
13 new
from $3.04
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of November 20, 2022 7:04 am
Features
- REPELS MOSQUITOES: DEET-free formula repels mosquitoes, including those that may carry West Nile virus
- WITH OIL OF LEMON EUCALYPTUS: The active ingredient in Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent is derived from the leaves of the Lemon Eucalyptus tree
- REPELS MOSQUITOES THAT MAY CARRY WEST NILE VIRUS: Creates a barrier against annoying mosquitoes that can spoil the outdoors
- FRESH, CLEAN SCENT: Cool lemon eucalyptus scent – never feels oily or greasy
- LASTS UP TO 6 HOURS: Reapply once daily as needed (up to twice per day)
Thermacell Mosquito Rechargeable Repeller E-Series E55 with 20’ Mosquito Protection Zone; Includes 12-Hr Repellent Refill; DEET Free Bug Spray Alternative; Scent Free; No Candles or Flames
$36.37 in stock
5 new
from $36.37
17 used from $29.56
17 used from $29.56
Free shipping
Amazon.com
as of November 20, 2022 7:04 am
Features
- EFFECTIVE MOSQUITO PROTECTION: Thermacell Mosquito Repellent Rechargeable E55 creates a 20-foot zone of protection against mosquitoes. Ideal for the backyard, poolside, patio, deck, and more. Easy to use, one button keeps mosquitoes away.Active Ingredient : Metofluthrin
- HEAT-ACTIVATED TECHNOLOGY: Powered by a rechargeable lithium-ion battery with up to 5.5 hours of continuous mosquito protection per charge. No fuel to monitor and replace. Emits scent-free repellent that drives away mosquitoes.
- EFFECTIVELY REPEL WITHOUT SPRAY OR SCENT: Repel mosquitoes without DEET sprays or lotions on your skin. No smoke, flames, or harsh odors like citronella. Enjoy max protection in 15 minutes. Unscented, liquid repellent cartridges are easy to replace.
- ADVANCED REPELLENT: Independently tested and EPA reviewed for safety & effectiveness. Repels tough mosquitoes, including those that may transmit Encephalitis, West Nile Virus, and Zika Virus. People and pet friendly.
- THERMACELL GUARANTEE: Extend warranty to 3 years with registration (automatic 2-year warranty included). Backed by Thermacell Guarantee. See packaging for details. Includes repeller, 12-hour refill repellent cartridge, and USB charging cable.
Protecker Electric Bug Zapper Mosquito Repellent Indoor,Mosquito, and Fly Trap Fly Zapper Outdoor Daytime Insect Catcher Killer, Quiet Best Eon Electric Plug-in Mosquito Killer,Outlet Large Area
$25.99
in stock
Amazon.com
as of November 20, 2022 7:04 am
Features
- [ EFFECTIVE BUG ZAPPER ]This mosquito killer has a U-shape 15-watt ultraviolet light bulb to attract all annoying flying insects into the device, and electrocute them with its powerful 4200v high-voltage charged metal mesh. This Electronic Bug Zapper can kill an unlimited number of insects. Help you get rid of all the troubles caused by insects and bugs
- [WIDE APPLICATION& NO NOISE]This Electronic Bug Zapper can cover up to 80m² area and is suitable for many occasions, such as restaurants, warehouses, fruit shops, living rooms, etc. And the zapping sound is lower than 30db, which means you can hardly hear it
- [ SAFE AND ECO-FRIENDLY ]: Protecker's lantern-style insect killer uses nontoxic ultraviolet light to eliminate mosquitoes, biting flies, and other insects. The insect killer is cleaner and safer than its chemical counterparts, featuring high-impact construction and a protective outer enclosure to prevent children, pets, birds, or wildlife from contacting the charged grid
- [EASY TO USE AND CLEAN]Our indoor bug zapper for home can be simply set on a table or hang up high, plug in, and see bothersome bugs be lured to their doom! Gives you and your family a sound sleep. Cleaning is also very simple, just pull out the collection tray at the bottom of the mosquito killer lamp
- [HOW TO MAKE IT EFFECTIVE] Turn the electric bug zapper on in dark evironment; keep it away from people and other light sources;.Change the position of bug zapper from time to time; Clean the power grid and bug collection tray regularly