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.

IMESASISHWA MWISHO

May 29, 2025

Imeandikwa na
Mwandishi wa Blogu ya Picha

Doug Mahoney

Doug Mahoney ni mwandishi mwandamizi wa wafanyakazi katika Wirecutter inayofunika uboreshaji wa nyumbani. Alitumia miaka 10 katika ujenzi wa hali ya juu kama seremala, msimamizi, na msimamizi. Anaishi katika nyumba ya kilimo yenye umri wa miaka 250 na alitumia miaka minne akijenga upya nyumba yake ya zamani. Pia hufuga kondoo na ana ng'ombe wa maziwa ambaye hunyonyesha kila asubuhi.

Chunguza Maudhui Zaidi

Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

The Sawyer Mini is super lightweight, fits in your pocket, and filters up to 100,000 gallons of water.

Menachem Kossowsky
Mwandishi

Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

Sawyer’s picaridin spray works up to 12 hours, and the company’s picaridin lotion is effective up to 14.

Bruce Ingram
Mwandishi wa Kuchangia

Majina ya Vyombo vya Habari

The Sawyer Squeeze Water Filter earns our top pick for its unbeatable mix of weight, longevity and versatility.

Meg Carney
Mwandishi wa Kuchangia