The Wirecutter Show Bug Repellents That Work
May 28, 2025
Doug Mahoney, a senior staff writer at Wirecutter with expertise in outdoor gear, shares essential tips on protecting against mosquitoes and ticks. He highlights the risks these pests pose, including disease transmission. Doug explains why many natural repellents fall short and discusses the environmental downsides of bug zappers. He reviews effective products like Cutter and Sawyer repellent and emphasizes the importance of proper application. Listeners also learn about safe ways to handle ticks, making outdoor adventures safer and more enjoyable.
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Personal Lyme Disease Experience
- Doug Mahoney has personally experienced Lyme disease about five times and been treated for it.
- He also notes that symptoms include flu-like feelings and muscle stiffness, often feeling it in his neck.
Prevent Mosquitoes and Ticks
- Prevent mosquitoes by eliminating standing water around your home, which serves as breeding grounds.
- Keep lawn mowed short to discourage ticks, which prefer tall grass.
How Repellents Confuse Bugs
- Mosquitoes detect humans through numerous receptors acting like microphones capturing signals.
- Repellents confuse these receptors, making insects unable to identify you as a food source.