Flies are irritating and incredibly persistent pests. Come summer, a giant tide of flies could be swarming their way indoors into your homes.
As vectors, these tiny insects also carry various health risks as they can be bearers of serious infections and diseases. The more you swat them, the more they keep coming back.
Ultimately, you will start your search for a good fly repellent to save your time and temper.
And here I am, ready to help you find the best solution for your pest issues.
Eager to see which fly repellent can help scratch your itch? Keep reading.
1. Murphy’s Mosquito Sticks
Pros
Extended burn time – 2.5 hours/stick
Plant-based ingredients
Wider coverage area
Reasonably priced
DEET and Petroleum free
You can put out and restart the stick anytime
It repels other insects like gnats and mosquitos.
Cons
Burning time depends on the wind condition
Only for outdoors
The smoke can be bothersome for the sensitive nosed
Does not come with a holder
Does not work during rainy seasons
Has Andiroba oil which can be toxic for bee larvae
Has Citronella which can be deadly to adult honeybees
Key Details
- Active Ingredient:
- Citronella oil: 1.5%
- Lemongrass oil: 1%
- Rosemary oil: 4.5%
- Cedar oil: 1%
- Peppermint oil: 2%
- Count/Amount: Each tube of Mosquito Sticks includes 12 incense sticks
- Type: Repellent Incense Stick
How Does It Work
The sticks work perfectly outdoors. It can be used during fishing, boating, swimming pools, lakes, outdoor picnics, hunting, camping, and even in gardens.
To start, all you have to do is use a flame and burn for 15 to 20 seconds. Blow it out while leaving the ember.
You should see a small stream of smoke leaving the end of the stick.
Place several sticks around the area infested with mosquitoes and fleas. To maximize its effect, place the sticks in intervals of 12 feet.
The Murphy’s mosquito sticks use five essential oils, making it a highly potent mosquito repellent. Other mosquito sticks, for example, only use one essential oil, making them less effective.
As they burn, the smoke and aroma released will repel mosquitoes and other insects such as gnats and flies.
What I Like
Eco-friendly
Murphy’s mosquito sticks are plant-based and natural. Uses all natural essential oils to repel mosquitos.
What’s more! The tube is recyclable too. The tube can even be used to store pencils, pens, and even paintbrushes. Murphy’s also gives away portions of their proceeds to charitable institutions.
Non-toxic
The repellant does not contain toxic DEET or petroleum, so they can be safely used around children and pets.
Also you can rest assured that the scent and smoke it releases is also safe.
Value for money
This is a great purchase, one stick is expected to last around 2.5 hours. This give you about 30 hours of protection for one pack. Since you can put it out and turn it on again as you please you can spread your 30 hours out exactly as you want.
What I Dislike
Some restrictions
Although Murphy’s mosquito sticks are made of natural ingredients, people with allergies and respiratory issues could find them bothersome.
Also, you can not use them indoors. Its also important that you make sure the smoke is able to spread around you. Windy days can discupt the effectiveness if the smoke is blow in the opposite direction.
Not for the rainy days
The repellent stick goes off easily during rains. It has to be kept in a sheltered place and not in open spaces when it is raining or too breezy.
Needs multiple sticks
To get rid of the mosquitos, one stick isn’t usually enough. You will likely need to place one near were you are and others residual areas for ultimate protection.
You also need to accept that there will be some light smoke in the air, although it does smell pleasant compared to other mosquito repellents.
2. Cutter 95783 Citro Guard Citronella Candle Bucket
Pros
Uses natural ingredient – Citronella
Available in multiple color options
Comes in a container with an airtight lid
Burning time is 30-40 hours
It can work on a variety of insects, including mosquitos
It’s reasonably priced
The container has a metal base to prevent the candle from tipping over
Cons
Outdoors use only
The smell can get overpowering
The container gets hot while burning
The container handle is flimsy
Does not work on heavily infested areas
Smoke can cause allergic reactions
An open flame can cause accidents
Key Details
- Active Ingredient: Oil of Citronella (3%)
- Count/Amount: 6 count, 17 oz./each
- Type: Candle
How Does It Work
Treat this like any other candle you would use. Light the candle and place it where flies frequent.
The key ingredient of the Cutter Citro Guard Candle is “Citronella.” The smell of the oil repels flies and other insects away. It also conceals the smell of blood and sweat, which attract insects.
What I Like
Long-lasting burn time
The Cutters Citro Guard is a 17oz candle placed in a large bucket holder. It burns anywhere between 30 to 40 hours, depending on the environmental conditions.
The candles are slower burning than standard candles, which extends protection against those pesky mosquitoes.
All-natural
The candle is made of a potent natural ingredient – 3%Citronella essential oil. The ingredient acts as a natural insect repellant and is completely safe to use. It is free from any harmful chemicals.
Quality container
The candle comes in a high-quality bucket and is available in five different colors. The bucket has a solid base to prevent the candle from tipping.
The container is attractive and the label comes off easily. The bucket also comes with an airtight container to keep the scent and effectiveness of the candle intact when not in use.
What I Dislike
Requires maintenance
The candle does not have a triple wick. The wick has to be trimmed every time you use it to have a controlled burning.
Not for weak lungs
This candle does release more smoke than natural candles. For those with sensitive noses the smoke and scent can be irritating.
Although the smoke is quite lite it should not be inhaled directly.
You must keep candles at a same distance in particular for children.
Only for use outdoors
Unfortunatly, if you have flies indoors you won’t be able to use this candle. Keep this candle for outdoor fly repellent. I recommend placing it near common entry points to your house.
For example, if you will be leaving your front door open for extended periods, place the candle near the front door. This will discourage flies and other flying insects from approaching the door and entering your home.
Not effective
While it works okay in areas near the flame, the candle isn’t as effective for heavier fly infestations. Larger infestations could require more candles or a chemical approach.
3. Zeropest Ultrasonic Pest Repeller
Pros
Consists of an extensive range of frequencies
No chemicals or scents
Inexpensive
Effective on a wide variety of pests
Covers a wide area
Noiseless and convenient to use
Cutting-edge technology using biological waves
Less power consumption
Cons
Might be dangerous to small pets
Effectivness varries
Does not produce instant results
Does not eliminate pests but reduces them
Key Details
- Active Ingredient: N/A
- Count/Amount: 2 packs
- Type: Ultrasonic Repellent
How Does It Work
The patented high technology device sends out ultrasonic waves which wards away rats, mosquitoes, mice, spiders, ants, roaches, bugs, and fleas, disorienting and agitating them.
The ultrasonic sound can also causes confusion, convulsions, and eventually death in some pests.
What I Like
Easy and safe to use
The Zeropest Ultrasonic system is completely safe and non-toxic. No chemicals are used and you don’t need to worry about harmful soundwaves.
To start all you need to do is plug it into the wall and turn it on.
Covers a Large Space
The system covers 800 to 1200 sq. Ft. which is a large range compared to other ultrasonic repellents. Depending on how large your home is typically one or two will suffice.
Since it comes in packs of two you get a total coverage of 2400 sq feet which is sufficient for most home.
What I Dislike
No immediate results
The Zeropest may not be ideal for you if you are facing heavy pest infestation and you are looking for immediate results.
It is impossible to see results for at least three to four weeks. For heavy infestation, you will need multiple devices.
Consistent Effectiveness
The effectivness of this devices is not always consistent. While it might work at first and for short periods of time.
In some cases, flies and rodents return as if they have become immune to the repellent.
4. Buggins Natural Insect Repellent
Pros
DEET-free repellent formula
Natural plant-based repellent
Available in Vanilla, Mint, and Rose scents
The formula is non-greasy
Can be reapplied safely
The repellent has a fresh odor
Cons
Needs to carefully used
Stains the fabrics and odor lasts a long time
It is not a single effective solution
Not suitable for prolonged use
Expensive
Sweat can reduce the effect of the repellent
Not effective on mosquitoes
Key Details
- Active Ingredient:
- Geraniol 1.5%
- Peppermint Oil 0.5%
- Lemongrass Oil 0.06%
- Clove Oil 0.05
- Count/Amount: 4 oz.
- Type: Spray Repellent
How Does It Work
Upon application, the Buggins Natural Pest Repellent just evaporates and works by blocking the mosquito’s sense of smell, thus making it impossible to locate its target.
What I Like
Natural repellent
The Buggins Repellent is pesticide-free and does not contain DEET and other toxic chemicals like parabens, alcohol, dyes, petroleum, and other preservatives.
It is eco-friendly and does not cause any side effects.
What I Dislike
Frequent reapplication
The repellant is not very effective and needs constant reapplication to keep bugs away.
Does not work on mosquitoes
The repellent is effective to ward away flies and gnats; however, it does not work on mosquitoes.
5. Repel Insect Repellent Mosquito Wipes
Pros
It consists of 30% DEET
No spillage and leakage issues
Ready-to-use wipes
Works on a wide range of pests, including mosquitoes and flies
Effective up to 10 hours
Cons
May not be suitable for those prone to allergic reactions
Wipes dry out quickly
Requires multiple wipes for full coverage
Key Details
- Active Ingredient: DEET30.0%
- Count/Amount: 15-count
- Type: Wipes
How Does It Work
When applied on the skin, the Repel Insect Wipes creates a natural barrier against a wide variety of mosquitos, including those that spread Dengue, Chikungunya, and Zika.
The DEET in the wipes obstructs the mosquito’s receptors and neurons, which play a crucial role in the detection of a potential meal.
What I Like
Travel-friendly
The Repel Insect Wipes comes in a convenient travel-size pouch to give you much-needed protection any time, anywhere. Each pouch has 15 wipes, ideal for outdoor use.
The wipes can be easily stuffed into your pocket to help reach out for instant protection on-the-go.
Highly efficient
The wipes contain 30% of DEET, a potential ingredient that works effectively against the mosquitos. The effect of the wipe lasts for almost 10 hours and that’s truly impressive.
Pleasant smell
The Repel Insect Wipes does not have the strong toxic smell of pesticides. In fact, it has a neutral fragrance and is quite pleasant to use.
What I Dislike
Can cause damage
The DEET present in the wipe can damage fabrics, crystals, watches, and leather.
It is not completely skin-friendly. It can be harsh and can cause skin irritations for people with sensitive skin.
Dries out quickly
The wipes don’t stay effective for a long time. Though the wipes come in a resealable pouch, the wipes dry out pretty fast.
If you fail to reseal the container, the wipes can dry out completely within a short period.
Not resistant to water
The ingredient of the Repel Insect Wipes is easily washed away with water. Once wiped out, they don’t work effectively against mosquitos.
6. Off! Deep Woods
Pros
Consists of 25% DEET
Offered in many sizes
Long-lasting effect
Reasonably priced
Safe to use on children over two months
Cons
Has an overwhelming smell
Nozzle gets stuck frequently
A bit greasy when applied.
Key Details
- Active Ingredient: Formulated with 25% DEET
- Count/Amount: Pack of 12 (6 oz.)
- Type: Aerosol Spray
How Does It Work
The key ingredient of Off! Deep Woods – DEET, works by emanating an odor that is unpleasant and annoying for mosquitoes. This smell will drive the mosquitos away.
Sometimes, the mosquito will get resistant to the smell and will land on the body to suck blood. At this point, the DEET will get itself separated from the essential oil and will taste bad for mosquitos, which will eventually drive them away.
What I Like
Highly efficient
The Off! Deep Woods spray works on a wide variety of insects including, ticks, mosquitos, flies, and gnats.
The ingredients work for a very long time and they don’t get washed away by sweat or humidity.
Easy application
The spray can easily be applied and can be used effortlessly in a flowing motion. Furthermore, it doesn’t stain your fabrics.
Safe to use
The spray comprises 25% DEET which is certified by the FDA and EPA as being safe to use even on children as young as two months. This is one prominent advantage of this product as many repellent sprays cannot be used on very young children.
What I Dislike
Unpleasant smell
The Off! Deep Woods spray has an unpleasant smell and also gets sticky when applied to exposed skin.
This can be a real downside as you might smell of a repellent apparently. It can get too oily especially during summers.
DEET as the main ingredient
Many people will not prefer repellent sprays with DEET as a key ingredient. It’s a toxic ingredient and studies show that it’s associated with numerous neurological issues.
7. Repel Insect Repellent Sportsmen MAX with 40% DEET
Pros
Provides 10-hour long protection from mosquitoes
Perfect for outdoor use
Doesn’t leave any greasy feeling
Can repel other bugs apart from mosquitoes
Cons
May be ineffective at times
Can potentially ruin synthetic fabrics
Gives off an unpleasant smell
Not the best product to be applied to the skin
Key Details
- Active Ingredient: 40% (Deet) and 60% (Other ingredients)
- Type of killer: Lotion
- Quantity: 4 oz.
How Does It Work
The Repel Insect Repellent Sportsmen MAX is best to use outdoors.
An excellent accompaniment for your adventures, the lotion can stay effective for at least eight to ten hours upon application.
Not only does it work on mosquitoes, but it can also repel other pests that you might come across when outdoors or on a trip.
What I Like
Long-lasting repellent
The lotion brings about 10-hour long mosquito protection. Within that time frame, not a single mosquito will dare land on your skin.
Great Coverage Area
The product can give great coverage on the skin without leaving any greasy feeling at all.
Safe to use on kids
It’s formulated safe and gentle to be used on children’s skin from ages two months and up.
What I Dislike
Has a strong scent
The product works well, but its scent is too strong and can linger for many hours later after application.
May cause skin reaction
Although DEET is harmless on the skin, it may still stir a reaction for sensitive skin or product allergy.
Conclusion
Flies are irritating and incredibly persistent pests. Come summer, a giant tide of flies could be swarming their way indoors into your homes.
As vectors, these tiny insects also carry various health risks as they can be bearers of serious infections and diseases. The more you swat them, the more they keep coming back.
Ultimately, you will start your search for a good fly repellent to save your time and temper.
And here I am, ready to help you find the best solution for your pest issues.
Eager to see which fly repellent can help scratch your itch? Keep reading.