That said, the percentage of DEET doesn't increase the amount of repelling power, just the length of time it will last. For reference, a repellent containing 15% DEET typically provides up to six hours of mosquito protection, while a repellent with 25% DEET typically provides up to 8 hours of mosquito protection.
How long does the mosquito spray last? Adult mosquito sprays are effective for only 24 hours or less. Spraying an area does not prevent mosquitoes from re-entering the area.
They do not have any residual effect – they work only at the time of treatment to quickly reduce adult mosquito populations. Once applied, the product begins to break down rapidly and dissipates 5 to 30 minutes later, depending on the formulation and weather conditions.
Regarding when your dog can go outside after mosquito spraying, it's generally recommended to wait about 30 minutes to 1 hour. This allows the insecticide to settle, making it safer for your furry friend to explore their outdoor domain.
Studies in EPA's database indicate that DEET repels ticks for about two to ten hours, and mosquitoes from two to twelve hours depending on the percentage of DEET in the product. View information from CDC: Recommendations for tick control. Advice on mosquito control.
Kim said a 1991 review found many cases where high DEET concentrations were linked to severe skin reactions and neurological problems including seizures. Doctors also onsidered DEET to be the probable cause of the deaths of three children, although the link was not proven, she said.
To avoid overexposure, be sure to remove DEET product before going to bed (shower or use a wash cloth to remove from skin).
If possible, remain inside or avoid the area whenever spraying takes place and for about 30 minutes after spraying. That time period will greatly reduce the likelihood of your breathing pesticides in the air.
Any type of chemical can leave particles behind that may stick around for longer than you think. Studies show that even though most weed killer bottles say that you and your pets should keep off sprayed lawns for only 6 to 24 hours, chemical residue can linger on surfaces for up to 48 hours after application.
According to the ASPCA, both dogs and cats are sensitive to DEET. Using it could cause neurological problems, such as tremors, seizures, or even death. There are pet-safe mosquito repellent products at your local pet supply store.
Products that are simply meant to repel them are likely not powerful enough to keep them all away. Because of all that, many of these products will ultimately be a waste of your money and your family will still be vulnerable to these dangerous pests.
Most people reason that rain washes the product away, requiring a re-spray, but actually the opposite is true. As long as your yard has had adequate time to dry and the product has had time to bond to the foliage (usually about 30 minutes) rain should not impact the effectiveness of your service.
That said, the percentage of DEET doesn't increase the amount of repelling power, just the length of time it will last. For reference, a repellent containing 15% DEET typically provides up to six hours of mosquito protection, while a repellent with 25% DEET typically provides up to 8 hours of mosquito protection.
Yes, you can leave mosquito repellent on overnight if you're in an area with high mosquito activity. Opt for long-lasting formulations and consider using a plug-in repellent for continuous protection.
Stay indoors with the windows closed during spraying. If you are outdoors when spraying takes place and come in contact with the chemical, rinse your skin and eyes with water. Wash fruits and vegetables from your garden before storing, cooking, or eating.
But feel free to send your pets back outside once the spray has fully dried. That takes about 30 minutes. Then they can spend at least that long frantically sniffing every spot the specialist walked over.
If they are at home and suspect pesticides are being applied outside, they should close their windows, and turn off the air conditioning or heating system. If possible, they should stay inside or avoid the area for about 30 minutes after spraying.
Some vets advise pet owners against using chemical pesticides, but pet owners who do use Roundup should keep pets off grass for 48 hours after application. Owners should also avoid walking dogs on uniform, weedless grass because this grass likely has had chemical pesticide or herbicide treatments.
ADD MOSQUITO REPELLENT PLANTS
These plants – including alliums, mums, marigolds, mint, basil and floss – can be placed around your patio, porch or gazebo. The aromas from these plants cause trouble for mosquitoes – some confuse them and others simply repulse them – which is enough to keep them away from you.
Here is what you need to do:
Switch off the fan and air conditioner and keep windows and doors closed during and for 20 minutes after spraying. Make sure there are no infants or children in the room when you do so!
The best time to kill adult mosquitoes by fogging is at dusk, when they are most active and looking for food (mosquitoes feed on human or animal blood). The aerosol fog primarily targets flying mosquitoes, which is why the timing of the spray is critical.
Very often, people don't wash the product off their skin after returning indoors. This can result in overexposure, especially in cases where a product is applied too often (at short intervals) or daily for several days. A small amount of DEET is absorbed into the body when applied to the skin.
For a "foolproof recipe" that banishes mosquitoes, combine 1/3 cup witch hazel and 1/3 cup water with 40 drops of eucalyptus essential oil. "Mosquitoes detest the strong aroma of eucalyptus, so this easy homemade mosquito repellent is sure to be a winner," says Harlow-Ellis.
Most mosquitoes avoid direct sunlight, coming out at night to feed. This means you're far more likely to get bitten by those pesky bugs while you're asleep, but luckily there are a few things you can do to prevent them getting into your room in the first place.