Summer is wonderful—except for one thing: mosquitos. I have a severe reaction to mosquito bites, so avoiding them is a year-round priority for me. I’m frequently asked how I manage, so here is a concise, practical guide to what works for me.
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A Note From Teri on Mosquitos
I take mosquito prevention seriously because I have Skeeter syndrome, an exaggerated reaction to bites that can cause large, painful, inflamed, and sometimes blistered areas. Because of this, I plan ahead every spring and into autumn. I treat my gardens with professional pest control in Chicago, which has made a big difference in my everyday life.
I also use a few simple DIY approaches. A recent method I tried—recommended by a friend—involves a bucket with fermenting fruit scraps and a mosquito dunk. The carbon dioxide from fermentation attracts mosquitoes into the bucket, and the dunk treats the larvae. It’s not perfect, but as an alternative to broad outdoor pesticide sprays, it has been helpful around our cabin.
Over the years I’ve tried many products—patches, sprays, lotions, and treated clothing. I generally avoid relying solely on treated clothing, though I keep treated leggings, socks, and a jacket for particularly buggy situations. Practical clothing choices—long sleeves, light-colored and loose fabrics—also help reduce bites when I’m outside.
One newer tool I find indispensable is an electronic bite zapper. It works similarly to the “hot spoon” method by applying targeted heat to a bite; it’s a little uncomfortable but effective. I also use red light therapy devices to help reduce inflammation and speed healing—those have been helpful as well.
Stickers and Bracelets
- Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Patches. I often stick these on my sleeves or pants and wear several at once for extra coverage.
- NatPat Mosquito Repellent Stickers. These have more personality and are my go-to for both function and style.
- Cliganic Mosquito Relent Bracelets. I wear these around my wrists or ankles; they’re lightweight and I find them helpful for added protection.
Sprays
I keep several sprays on hand and use them before walks or spending time outdoors:
- Benadryl Itch Cooling Spray. Good for calming the warm, itchy sensation after a bite.
- Sawyer Picaridin Spray. A DEET-free repellent option I have on standby.
- Kinfield Repellent Spray. I rotate this into my routine; it’s effective though it has a noticeable scent.
- Bye Bites! Natural Spray. A favorite I discovered while traveling—sometimes local finds become your best go-to products.
Mosquito Bite Relief
- Triamcinolone Acetonide Cream. Prescription-strength topical steroid that helps with severe reactions—ask your doctor if this is appropriate for you.
- Bite Relief Wipes. Convenient for on-the-go soothing; drugstore brands work well.
- Caladryl Clear. A clear topical option that’s discreet for daytime wear.
- Calamine Lotion. The classic soothing lotion that helps reduce itching and irritation.
I use a combination of these measures. I’m not a doctor, and I can’t guarantee they’ll work for everyone, but this multi-layered approach has helped me manage severe reactions and enjoy the outdoors more comfortably.
Check out these posts for more outdoor fun!
- Summer Grilled Vegetable Platter
- Summer Steak & Grilled Corn Salad
- My Dream Outdoor Kitchen Come True
- The Secret to Having More Fun
- Sizzle Into Summer: Your Guide to the Ultimate Magical Bash
If you try any of these tips or products, please leave a comment and share what worked for you. For more updates and outdoor inspiration, follow my social channels and subscribe to my newsletter.