Mosquitoes swarming? 6 things to keep them from bugging you
Want to get through the season without being swarmed? We're here to help.
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If you’ve spent any time outside lately, then you know: the mosquitoes are either swarming, or just about to swarm. Of course, you needn’t be helpless, and that’s what we’re here for, with these six recommendations for products to keep the blasted things at a distance.
Natrapel 6-Hour Mosquito, Tick and Insect Repellent
Amazon.ca
We can't get enough of this spray from Natrapel. DEET-free with an essential oil base, we’ve recommended it several times before, and we aren’t the only ones who love it; it’s the top choice for insect repellent sprays on Amazon.ca.
Other features we liked:
Natural plant base (oil of lemon eucalyptus) helps avoid the usual acrid smell of most bug sprays
Provides up to six hours of protection from bugs of all kinds
Rated 4.3 out of 5 by users who ordered it from Amazon.ca, based on almost 250 reviews
Thermacell Patio Shield Mosquito Repeller
Amazon.ca
This is one of the more popular mosquito repellent options among those who purchased it from Amazon.ca, and it's a nifty little gadget. The repellent mats can keep bugs away within a 15-foot radius for up to four hours each, and a separate fuel cartridge removes the need for cords, making it good for camping trips as well.
Other features we liked:
Three colour options
Includes fuel cartridge and three unscented repellant mats
Rated 4.5 out of 5 on Amazon.ca
Thermacell Portable Mosquito Repeller
Amazon.ca
For the more mobile among you, there’s this smaller, belt-mounted version of the gadget in the last entry. Using the same active ingredient, it keeps mosquitos away in a 15-foot radius. One thing to keep in mind, however, is that some reviewers reported lower efficacy in windy conditions, so use your best judgement.
Other features we like:
Fuel cartridge (one included) provides up to 12 hours of operation
Individual repellent mats are unscented and last up to four hours (three included)
Very popular on Amazon.ca, where it has a 4.5 out of 5 rating based on more than 1,200 reviews
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LABELLEFÉE Citronella Coils
Amazon.ca
We've recommended citronella tea lights before, but don’t mind too much about aesthetics, there’s this option as well: citronella incense coils, with a dash of lemongrass. With a solid burn time, they should help take the edge off.
Other features we liked:
Includes 48 coils and two free stands
Each coil burns for up to four hours
Rated 4.2 out of 5 on Amazon.ca, based on around 900 reviews
Tough Outdoors Mosquito Suit
Amazon.ca
If gadgets and sprays don't grab you while out for a walk, there are a few options out there for mesh suits. We were drawn to this unisex variety, with its breathability and high visibility due to its beige colour.
Other features we liked:
Adjustable drawcords to seal off arms and legs
Comes with carrying pouch for easy storage
Rated 4.3 out of 5 based on more than 300 reviews on Amazon.ca
Zap-It! Rechargeable Bug Zapper
Amazon.ca
Opting for one of these electric bug zappers over a simple swatter has two advantages: first, the wire mesh is spread over a larger surface area, making for an easier swing that’s more likely to make contact. Second, the electric grid’s 4,000-volt charge will mean instant doom for any small insects that invade your space. We like it so much that this isn’t the first time we’ve suggested it.
Other features we liked:
Activation button and indicator light should help users avoid accidental zaps
Relies on a USB charger rather than batteries, with 10,000 zaps on a single charge
Wildly popular among users who bought it on Amazon.ca, with almost 14,000 reviews and an average rating of 4.2 out of 5
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Our trusted Product Specialists recommend high-quality items that we think will enhance your experience with Canadian weather conditions. Prices and availability of items are accurate at the time of publication and are subject to change.
Thumbnail courtesy Pixabay
