Phil Aitken
Phil Aitken
Owner/Broker

The Truth Re: Popular Mosquito Repellants

Everything in life is a trade-off.  For example: where there is the heat/humidity combo, there are mosquitoes – especially in Florida.  Perhaps you are one out of thousands of mosquito bite victims questioning the efficacy of citronella.  Here is a simple truth:

1. – Citronella in and of itself does not bother mosquitoes one iota, so it might be time to sell off all that citronella stock you purchased last week and explore other pest repellent options.

2. – Citronella acts as a mask to human odors in order to “confuse” mosquitoes from detecting human presence.

3. – Mosquitoes are smarter than we think.  They are sensitive to chemicals, odors, and carbon dioxide.  They know when you exhale and citronella cannot always serve as a successful olfactory blocker for mosquitoes.  Factors such as wind, rain, and humidity can dilute citronella, thus destroying its efficacy.  

Related: “5 Ways to Stay Cool in Jacksonville”

Repellents, Wristbands & Natural Remedies

Unfortunately, many studies have consistently reflected that ultrasonic mosquito repellents have no effect when used as a mosquito deterrent.  Actually, such products can result in MORE bites rather than less.

Results vary among studies related to the use of mosquito repellent wristbands.  One study reflected that most scented bracelet repellents are useless, yet the OFF! The Clip-On brand seems to work.  This particular product is known for its metofluthrin vapor, which is a powerful neurotoxin that repels and KILLS mosquitoes.  

For a natural, chemical-free wristband repellent, Terminix AllClear Sidekick is where it’s at.  This product employs a natural blend of cinnamon, geranium, peppermint, lemongrass, and eugenol oils and seems to be effective in deterring those pesky mosquitoes.  

Keep in mind that, with all wristbands, weather conditions have to be just right.  Wind movement can be a game-changer as it can blow the scent of the wristband repellents away from your body, resulting in mosquito bite activity.  

As for natural mosquito repellents, most of them contain anise, bergamot, certain varieties of cedar and cypress, blue eucalyptus, ginger, garlic, and geranium, all of which are normally ineffective.  Other remedies contain betel pepper, clove, coconut oil, red eucalyptus, lily of the valley, neem, patchouli, and pennyroyal which can be toxic and highly expensive when it comes to perfecting an effective repellent formula.  

DIY herbal bug sprays can cause more harm than good and should not be used prior to consulting a doctor…or skilled chemist.  

Repel(R) can be rather effective in preventing mosquitos and ticks, yet children under three years of age should not come in contact with this product.  

When all is said and done, mosquitoes are here to stay.  What’s good for the goose may not work for the gander and weather conditions are worth considering.  Consult a physician before getting too creative or visit the EPA’s online tool in order to find a repellent best suited for you.

Related: “13 Steps to Summer-Prepping Your Home”

For more information, contact The Aitken Home Team today!

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Phil Aitken, Owner/Broker
Phil Aitken is the Owner/Broker with Your Home Sold Guaranteed Realty - Phil Aitken Home Team and has over 13 years of Real Estate experience. Phil’s faith and desire for his family’s continued security fuel his business growth and leadership. The Phil Aitken Home Team continues to profoundly impact the people of Jacksonville via supporting several faith-based organizations. Phil gives back a portion of every real estate transaction to The Tim Tebow Foundation and Rethreaded. Find Phil's full story here.