Insect Repellent Sprays

Insect repellent sprays can help keep mosquitoes, ticks and other biting pests from interrupting chores, fishing trips or time out in the yard. Start by checking the label for the pests you want to repel and the places you plan to apply the spray. A mosquito repellent for exposed skin is not interchangeable with a yard treatment or a spray intended for livestock. For personal protection, look for an EPA-registered insect repellent and compare its listed protection time with your plans, whether you’re checking fence lines for an hour or spending the afternoon by the pond. Active ingredients such as DEET and picaridin are common options, but protection time depends on the formula and application directions. Sweat, water exposure and outdoor conditions can also affect how long protection lasts. Follow the label’s reapplication instructions rather than adding extra spray, and apply sunscreen before insect repellent if you need both. Getting good coverage matters just as much as choosing an insect repellent spray that fits the job. Apply personal repellent only to exposed skin or clothing as the label allows, never beneath clothing or over cuts and irritated skin. To protect your face, spray your hands first and spread the repellent carefully, keeping it away from your eyes and mouth. An adult should handle application for children and check all age restrictions before applying a product. Keep personal insect repellents separate from pet, horse, livestock and outdoor pest-control sprays, since each has its own directions and precautions. For chores around the barn or an evening outside, pair mosquito and tick repellent with long sleeves, long pants and a tick check afterward. Emptying standing water around the yard and keeping window screens in good shape can help round out your mosquito-control routine without relying on spray alone.