Mosquitoes love me, but I fight back: Shop 10 bug repellents and after-bite fixes
Try the Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets, rechargeable Thermacell devices and more this summer.
I don't say this lightly, but I am a mosquito's favorite meal and it is one of the worst parts about summer. If I go outside without at least two types of mosquito repellent, I am coming home with no less than 13 bites. My personal record is 52 (curse you, North Carolina!). It is a miserable way to live when the bugs come out in the warmer months. That's why I've had to find the most effective mosquito repellents and the best ways to treat any bites you might encounter.
With the school season starting earlier (as soon as today in Texas), it means you might be encountering more mosquitoes as part of your daily routine. You're out of the house earlier getting the kids to school and, of course, practices and games for Fall sports are around the corner. Here are my recommendations to keep the mosquitoes away from you, your kids and your home and backyard:
First, you need a repellent spray that doesn't smell awful, and my go-to is to always throw on a Cliganic mosquito repellent bracelet. But, if I do get bit, I immediately reach for the extra-strength Benadryl gel, or the Cortizone maximum strength anti-itch cream. Regardless of what TikTok may tell you, bubble machines and dryer sheets are not effective mosquito repellent tools.
10 best mosquito repellents for summer 2025
Here's a look at my top 10 mosquito repellents and after-bite deals for summer 2025 to help keep you safe and bug-free.