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What is the Most Effective Mosquito Repellent in Knoxville?

There are a few different types of mosquito repellents: skin repellents, clothing repellents, and airborne repellents. Most repellent formulas contain either DEET or picaridin.

So which one is the most effective for mosquito control? It turns out that EPA-approved repellents that use DEET are routinely evaluated as the best options to repel mosquitoes.

Most effective mosquito repellent | Knoxville TN | Russell's Pest Control

Picaridin vs. DEET: The Search for the Best Mosquito Repellent

Picaridin and DEET are the two most commonly-used mosquito repellent agents. So, which one should you prioritize when looking for a mosquito repellent product? These are the pros and cons of each:

  1. DEET has been used for many years. It was created by the U.S. Army in the 1940s. Although it has come under lots of scrutiny, DEET is an EPA-approved product and has passed tests examining it for health concerns. Concentrations containing between 10% and 30% DEET can provide nearly 12 hours of mosquito protection. Unfortunately, it can damage plastics and synthetic gear.
  2. Picaridin is an effective insect repellent for all kinds of flies and ticks. It has little odor, no effect on plastics, and is commonly found in many repellents today. It has comparable mosquito protection ability to DEET but works better on common flies.

Are Mosquito Repellents Always Safe to Use?

When looking for a mosquito repellent, always choose EPA-approved products. Most store-bought repellents use a concentration of 10% to 30% DEET or up to 20% picaridin. When you use a mosquito repellent, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Ask a pediatrician about using mosquito sprays on children. When used as instructed, mosquito repellents are completely safe for everyone.

How to Use a Mosquito Repellent Safely

No matter what kind of repellent you choose for mosquitoes, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Some repellents need to be applied multiple times over the course of a day to hold up in effectiveness. It is recommended to do skin patch tests to make sure that your chosen repellent doesn’t cause you to react poorly. You can always ask your doctor about the use of mosquito repellents. 

What Is The Most Effective Mosquito Repellent In Your Area?​ in Knoxville TN

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