Mosquito Repellants

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Two of my children are practically bug magnets. During the summer season, we’re busy treating bites all day. Are there any effective ways to repel these bugs? I’m getting itchy just thinking about them.

My sympathies! I was always that kid. I used to suffer from bites all the time. Mosquitoes are just attracted to me. I then got a special blue light from the brand Veyofly, which acts as an insect killer. It really works! Since I installed it next to my bed, I haven’t gotten any bites when I’m asleep.

- Rochel S.

I make my own natural bug repellant spray that really wards off insects. In a spray bottle, put a few drops of Purification essential oil and water. Spray it generously on your skin and clothing. It works like magic for us. Here’s another interesting tip: try to feed your kids lots of garlic. The garlic seeps into the skin and gives off a subtle smell that repels mosquitoes (and not people, so no worries).

- Gittie Lefkowitz, Monsey

Vinegar is a natural bug repellent. I started adding vinegar to my washing and I’ve seen a pronounced difference with my kids’ bites. An added bonus is that vinegar serves as a color catcher and white brightener for clothing. I also heard of placing a cup of vinegar next to the child (especially at night), which helps repel bugs.

- B. Brodt, Lakewood

In my experience, I’ve found that not much can be done to prevent bites when the kids are outside. None of the insect repellent sprays, bracelets, clothing, and whatnot worked for us. However, it’s the mosquitoes inside the home that cause far worse damage. The doors are open more during the summer season, and all you need is one mosquito to fly into your children’s room for them to wake up bitten all over. To help on that end, put screens on all doors and windows, and keep them closed as much as possible.

- R. Kaufman

Are you sure those spots on your children’s skin are mosquito bites? I was getting so exasperated with one of my children’s constant bites. She would wake up covered in so many bites and itch them all day until someone mentioned that they might be bedbug bites—not mosquito bites. The biggest differentiator is that bedbug bites usually appear in a cluster of at least three bites and often in a distinct pattern. Mosquito bites, on the other hand, are generally isolated and appear on random spots on the skin that aren’t covered by clothing. If bedbugs are the culprit, call an exterminator or try to get rid of them yourself by washing the linen on a very hot cycle with bleach.

- Bracha Schwarts, Kew Garden Hills

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Old-fashioned bug repellant sprays work the best for us. I just spray them where my children play or sleep and the mosquitoes get away instantly.

- T. Flohr

I found quite a few essential oils helpful for preventing mosquitoes. Citronella oil works best, but if you don’t have it, you can try peppermint, clover, or cinnamon. I either dilute them in a spray and spray the area or put a few drops of them in my home diffusers. They really ward off mosquitoes. As for the actual bites, try dabbing vinegar on them as soon as you notice them. There’s also the great Bug Bite Thing, available on Amazon or on their own site. It’s unbelievable. It really suctions the insect venom, which greatly reduces the itching and swelling. It works great on any bite, including bee bites.

Chaya Braun

You’ve probably heard about bug repellant bracelets. Most people claim they don’t work, but I’ve found the ones we use, especially from the Cliganic brand, to be extremely effective. Do your due research before making your purchase. I love that the oils are natural and powered by citronella, geranium, and lemongrass essential oil. Cliganic has an entire line of different mosquito repellant options, but I only tried the bracelets. I hope you and your children have a smooth and itch-free summer!

- Bassie T., Monticello

My son is a conscientious student, and he loves to learn. He would be thriving at school each day if not for the 45-minute ride to and from school. He gets nauseous on the bus, feels bored, and can’t stand the smell. He comes to school already worn out from the ride, and gets home supercranky. What can I do to alleviate the motion sickness and general distress for him?

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Please note: These suggestions should not be implemented in place of guidance from a medical practitioner.