Organic Insecticides | Organic Pesticides | EcoSMART Bug Spray

Natural Bug Repellents: OFF! vs. EcoSMART

March 8th, 2010 Posted in Organic & Chemical Pesticides

Everyone has bug problems at some point, whether it’s outdoors at a picnic or indoors throughout the kitchen. It’s essential that you choose the right method of insect control, more specifically that you choose the right bug repellent for you and your family’s needs.

Insect repellents effectiveness varies depending on the environment it’s used in, the person that’s using it, and what kind of activity a person is partaking in while using the repellent. It is important to take this information into consideration when choosing which product to use. Insects, like the mosquito, not only are a nuisance, but can carry harmful diseases.

Ready to learn more?

• What Is A Bug Repellent?
• The Perks & Downsides of OFF! FamilyCare Insect Repellent IV
• The Perks & Downsides of EcoSMART Insect Repellent

What Is A Bug Repellent?

Insect repellents are what make a person’s body unattractive to mosquitoes and other insects. Repellents aim to repel or fend off most species of insects from coming near your body. A bug repellent isn’t meant to kill the bugs that are bothering you, but merely defend against continued attacks.

Therefore, the best of the best repellents will keep bugs away from you for long periods of time with limited bites and limited applications of the repellent. Some repellents come in creams that you spread throughout your body, in sprays that you apply onto your clothes and exposed skin, and some come in the form of wipes or foam.

There are various forms of repellents sold today with a multitude of active ingredients present in each. This makes choosing the right bug repellent difficult at times. The EPA or the Environmental Protection Agency has initiated various standards and certifications to help consumers choose which repellent is right for them.

The Perks & Downsides of OFF! FamilyCare Insect Repellent IV

Every product on the market, regardless of its use, has positive and negative features. It is important to note which products have certain features because you can then make an informed decision as to which product best suits the needs of your family.

In this instance, you are deciding which product is best for your bug control needs. OFF! products are aimed at providing quick results with strong chemicals guaranteed to kill bugs on contact. Here are some perks and downsides to OFF! FamilyCare Insect Repellent IV:

Perks

• It lasts for up to 2 hours after being sprayed
• OFF! has a very light smell
• This product is EPA registered
• When it is applied it is smooth and dry
• This repellent repels mosquitoes and most outdoor insects
• This repellent is affordable, often only costing $5 for 6 oz.

Downsides

• This product contains 7% DEET, which is harmful to most organisms
• Not 100% safe for use around small children
• Not 100% safe for use around pets
• Can sometimes cause a harmful reaction if sprayed on skin or clothing
• Flammable if used near heating items like fires, grills, ovens, etc

The Perks & Downsides of EcoSMART Insect Repellent

EcoSMART’s products like all other products have up’s and down’s. Engineered to be one of the only organic insect repellent’s on the market, EcoSMART’s products are made with natural chemicals aimed at only hurting the insects (no innocent bystanders). Here are some perks and downsides to using organic pesticide products:

Perks

• Made with all natural chemicals like rosemary oils, cinnamon leaf oil, lemongrass oil, and geraniol
• Repels for hours, according to the Wall Street Journal
• The spray only smells like a cinnamon and lemon, nice!
• This product is a Minimum-Risk pest control product, and qualifies for exemption from EPA registration under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act
• Safe for use around children
• Safe for use around pets
• Effective at repelling mosquitoes and most insects
• Since it is made from all natural chemicals, it doesn’t endanger the environment

Downsides

• The cinnamon and lemon fragrance lingers for an hour or two after being used
• Does not protect against bedbugs
• Can cause irritation if sprayed in the eyes, if it does get in your eyes flush with water and consult a physician
• Some people are sensitive to plant oils, beware of negative reactions to these oils

Which Product Would You Choose? Share Your Family’s Choice Below!