Top 5 Mosquito Repellents for This Summer in Richmond, VA
As the weather heats up in Richmond, VA, so does the mosquito population. Mosquitoes can be a major nuisance during the summer months, but they can also transmit serious diseases like Zika virus and West Nile virus. To protect yourself from these pesky insects, it's important to invest in a good mosquito repellent. In this blog, we’ll discuss the top 5 repellent options, as well as some DIY methods to eliminate these nagging pests.
Top 5 Mosquito Repellents
To keep your Richmond home free of mosquitoes this Summer, try out these options:
DEET-Based Repellents
DEET-based repellents are the gold standard when it comes to mosquito repellents. DEET has been proven to be highly effective at repelling mosquitoes, and it is safe for use by adults and children over the age of 2 months. Some popular DEET-based repellents include OFF! Deep Woods, Cutter Backwoods, and Repel 100. These products can provide protection for up to 8 hours, making them a great choice for outdoor activities like camping and hiking.
Picaridin-Based Repellents
Picaridin is a newer mosquito repellent that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It is just as effective as DEET, but it has a milder odor and is less likely to irritate the skin. Some popular picaridin-based repellents include Sawyer Products Premium Insect Repellent and Natrapel 8 Hour. These products can provide protection for up to 12 hours, making them a great choice for all-day outdoor activities.
Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus-Based Repellents
The oil of lemon eucalyptus is a natural mosquito repellent that is derived from the leaves of the lemon eucalyptus tree. It is just as effective as DEET, but it is a natural alternative that may be more appealing to some people. Some popular oil lemon eucalyptus-based repellents include Repel Lemon Eucalyptus and Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus. These products can provide protection for up to 6 hours, making them a good choice for shorter outdoor activities.
IR3535-Based Repellents
IR3535 is a synthetic repellent that is similar to the amino acid beta-alanine, which is found in the human body. It has been used in Europe for over 20 years and has recently been approved for use in the United States. IR3535-based repellents are effective against mosquitoes, as well as ticks, and other biting insects. Some popular IR3535-based repellents include Avon Skin-So-Soft Bug Guard and SkinSmart DEET-Free Insect Repellent. These products can provide protection for up to 8 hours, making them a good choice for outdoor activities like gardening and picnicking.
Mosquito Repellent Clothing
In addition to using a repellent on your skin, you can also invest in mosquito-repellent clothing. These products are treated with a long-lasting insecticide that repels mosquitoes and other biting insects. Some popular mosquito repellent clothing brands include ExOfficio, BugsAway, and Insect Shield. These products can provide protection for the entire body, making them a great choice for outdoor activities like hiking and camping.
DIY Methods to Remove Mosquitoes in Richmond, VA
If you prefer to avoid chemical mosquito repellents, there are some DIY methods you can use to eliminate mosquitoes in Richmond. One of the most effective ways is to remove any standing water in your yard, as this is where mosquitoes lay their eggs. Empty any containers that collect rainwater, such as buckets, flower pots, and bird baths. You can also use mosquito-repelling plants like citronella, basil, and lavender to create a natural barrier around your home. Additionally, you can install screens on your windows and doors to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. Finally, using a fan can also help deter mosquitoes, as they are not strong fliers and will have a hard time flying in the wind. These DIY methods can help reduce the mosquito population in your area and create a more comfortable outdoor environment.
Still Struggling With Mosquitoes? Contact the Experts!
With the Summer climate in Richmond being warm and humid, this is a perfect haven for mosquitoes. Sometimes, you can try every method in the book yet still get bitten by these pests. If you want professional help, contact the exterminators at RichPro for complete mosquito elimination in Richmond. Our technicians will provide a free inspection and then come up with a custom treatment plan for your home.