Bug Repellents That Work

Mosquito and tick bites aren’t just annoying–they spread dangerous diseases. In this episode, senior staff writer Doug Mahoney shares proven prevention tips and breaks down the differences between various effective repellents.

He also explains why you should avoid certain “natural” repellents, like essential oils and citronella candles, and why bug zappers are bad for the environment.

Click to watch the video from the New York Times Podcasts.

Foto thumbnail Blog Otè
Senior Staff Writer
Doug Mahoney

Doug Mahoney se yon ekriven ansyen nan Wirecutter ki kouvri amelyorasyon kay. Li te pase 10 zan nan konstriksyon wo fen kòm yon bòs chapant, òmòn, ak sipèvizè. Li ap viv nan yon fèmye trè mande 250 ane fin vye granmoun ak te pase kat ane trip ak rekonstwi kay li anvan yo. Li leve mouton tou e li gen yon bèf chak jou ke li lèt chak maten.

Medya Mansyone

This Sawyer repellent won a SELF Outdoor Award in 2022.

Sara Coughlin

Medya Mansyone

The first detections of West Nile virus this year are a reminder to take steps to prevent mosquito bites and possible disease.

Desiree Fischer
Reporter

Medya Mansyone

Both Consumer Reports and the Environmental Working Group (EWG) suggest that oil of lemon eucalyptus and picaridin can each serve as an alternative to DEET.

Terry Graedon
Editor, The People's Pharmacy