This is the time of year that the weather is at it’s hottest, and anytime you step outside for more than a few seconds you’ll be swarmed by a cloud of mosquitoes. Other than uselessly slapping yourself when you feel them land on you, the only protection you can get is from bug repellent. There’s a ton of different options to decide between, so just going to a store and buying the first bug spray you see will leave you with poor protection or negative side effects.

Why Should I Care If I'm Bit?

The mosquitoes and ticks that annoy you during the summer are not only a nuisance. They also carry life threatening diseases like Zika, Malaria, and West Nile Virus. Many people don’t realize that the most deadly animal in the world isn’t a shark or a snake but the mosquito, which kills an estimated 1 million people per year. Mosquitoes and ticks are much more dangerous than the average person thinks.

Which Bug Repellents Should I Avoid?

The most common, well known, and dangerous bug repellent is DEET. It is a chemical developed for jungle warfare during World War Two for the US Army. DEET’s strong and effective at doing it’s job, keeping mosquitoes and ticks at bay. However, constantly covering yourself in large doses of a strong chemical is not the best choice for your long term health.

The EPA has determined that DEET is “slightly toxic” which means if used in high concentrations and frequently it can cause unwanted effects. After being applied it enters through the skin into the bloodstream. The most dangerous reported side effect is issues with the brain like disorientation and dizziness, or even seizures and death. This is rare, but it has happened. The more common side effect is skin irritation which is still unnecessary to put yourself at risk for.

DEET melts plastic and rubber on objects like fishing line and golf clubs. It can even ruin the paint on your car if it gets on it. This means you can’t use bug spray during almost all summer activities and further reinforces that this chemical is not something you want on you, your children, or your pets.

Which Bug Sprays Are Safe and Effective?

Deciding whether to take the risk of catching diseases carried by insects or to risk being hurt by chemical ingredients in your bug spray is a tough choice. Luckily, DEET is not your only option. There are natural alternatives, many very recently developed, that can protect you just as well as DEET without coating yourself in chemicals.

On of the better options is our Skedattle Bug Spray and Single Use Anti-Bug Wipes. It’ll outperform harsh chemicals while being gentler on the skin. Skedattle will give you no irritation or headaches from chemicals and the pesky insects will leave you alone. Natural bug sprays use oils that are safe for you, the environment, and even your pets. It really works and smells great!