GREENSBORO, N.C. — A bug bite can leave more than just an itchy bump. Mosquitoes can spread diseases like the West Nile Virus, and ticks can transmit many diseases, including Lyme and Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever.
Every year, Consumer Reports tests lotions, sprays, and wipes, including plant-based repellents, on real people using real mosquitoes to find the best insect repellents.
A repellent fails if a mosquito bites twice in one 5-minute session. Or if there’s one bite in each of two consecutive 5-minute sessions.
"CR currently tests repellents against only mosquitoes, but in past years, it has found that repellents that work well against mosquitoes also tend to work well against ticks," said Catherine Roberts, Consumer Reports.
The results: the most effective repellents against mosquitoes and ticks contain 25 to 30% DEET as their active ingredient.
At the top of CR’s ratings:
Ben's Tick & Insect Repellent Wipes
Ben's Tick & Insect Repellent Wilderness Formula Pump
3M Ultrathon Insect Repellent8
All excel in protection.
"If you’re concerned about using DEET, consider this, CR’s ratings include over 50 repellents and more than 20 recommended ones, so it should be easy to find a way to beat the bugs that’s right for you," said Roberts.
CR found products with 30% oil of lemon eucalyptus as good alternatives:
Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent Pump
CR’s ratings also have a few high scorers that contain 20% Picaridin, like the Sawyer Premium Insect Repellent Pump.
Correctly applying the repellent is just as important as the kind you use. Follow the directions on the label, and use a thin coat on all exposed skin.
You can also spray it on top of your clothes but don’t apply it under your clothing. To learn more about Consumer Reports in-depth repellent testing, visit our website to see those mosquitoes in action.