Can't Recommend: Consumer Reports Ranks This Mosquito Repellent A 4 Out Of 100

Being outdoors is one of the greatest pleasures of summer, but it also comes with its nuisances. One of the biggest is dealing with pesky insects, particularly as mosquito season keeps starting earlier and earlier each year. In addition to the discomfort and itchiness bites can cause stateside, travelers abroad should also be aware that some foreign strains can spread serious illnesses, such as the Zika virus. An effective repellant is a great way to stop bites before they happen, especially at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

Consumer Reports, which has been independently testing products for 90 years, set out to find the best insect repellents by carefully testing and scoring 57 contenders based on efficacy, as well as numerous other factors, such as cost and formulation. Many top-selling products were tested, and the lowest-ranking option proved to be the Badger Anti-Bug Shake & Spray, which received just 4 out of 100 points.

The fact that it claims to use 95% organic ingredients would make it appealing to anyone searching for a natural bug spray, but unfortunately, it fell short in Consumer Reports' testing. According to the outlet, it failed to protect against mosquitoes as promised and also did little to keep ticks at bay, earning it a mere 1 out 5 on the protection scale.

When searching for the best mosquito repellent for your needs, there are several criteria to consider. For one, DEET is the most commonly used ingredient, including in Consumer Reports' top pick, Ben's 30 Tick & Insect Repellent Wipes, which scored a 96 out of 100. While generally considered safe when properly used, DEET is a chemical formula that can cause skin irritation and should be used sparingly on kids under 12. That has made Badger's Anti-Bug Shake & Spray appealing to many, as it relies on essential oils instead. 

However, while some Amazon shoppers were pleased with their purchase, Consumer Reports was unable to recommend it, docking points for its greasy residue, overpowering fake lemon smell, and the fact that it left stains on polyurethane and materials made from a polyester spandex blend. The biggest issue, however, was that its claims of offering over three hours of protection were disproven. Indeed, numerous users have commented that they were still bitten by mosquitoes, despite applying liberally and often, particularly when surrounded by large amounts of insects, like during camping. 

Instead, if a more natural repellent is important to you, Consumer Reports recommends Repel's Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent, which doesn't use DEET and scored 90 out of 100, including 5 on 5 when it came to repelling mosquitoes. In addition to a good repellent, you can also help keep insects away from your home with mosquito-repellent plants, like catnip and lavender, as well as simple DIY mosquito traps.