Summer evenings in the garden or on the terrace are often spoiled by mosquitoes. Between controversial chemical products and sometimes ineffective natural solutions, it's hard to know what to choose. Here is our complete guide to the best mosquito repellent solutions to enjoy your outdoor space in peace.
Understanding mosquitoes to fight them better
Mosquitoes are attracted to:
- 🔴 The CO2 we exhale (main attractant)
- 🔴 Body heat (37°C = ideal target)
- 🔴 Perspiration and lactic acids on the skin
- 🔴 White lights (especially UV light)
- 🔴 Stagnant water (breeding ground)
Understanding these factors allows you to choose the most suitable solution.
Mosquito repellent lamps: the most practical solution
How do they work?
Electric mosquito repellent lamps combine two mechanisms:
- UV Attraction: A UV light attracts insects
- Electrocution or sticky trap: Insects are neutralized upon approach
Modern models are silent, odorless, and chemical-free. They can be used indoors and outdoors.
Advantages of mosquito repellent lamps
- ✅ 100% chemical-free
- ✅ Effective against mosquitoes, gnats, flies
- ✅ USB rechargeable (8-12h autonomy)
- ✅ Silent for evenings on the terrace
- ✅ Cover up to 40m² depending on the model
Where to place your lamp?
Optimal position: 1.5 to 2 meters from the ground, 3-5 meters from your comfort zone, never directly above the table. Insects should be attracted to the lamp, not to you.
Complementary natural solutions
Repellent plants
- 🌿 Citronella: the most effective, to be planted in pots or used as essential oil
- 🌿 Lavender: natural and fragrant repellent for your terrace
- 🌿 Basil: double advantage — cooking and repellent
- 🌿 Rose Geranium: contains geraniol, effective against mosquitoes
Natural candles and diffusers
Citronella candles create a protection zone of approximately 1 meter. Combine them with your mosquito repellent lamp for maximum effectiveness. Essential oil diffusers (citronella, lemon eucalyptus) also work well indoors.
Eliminate breeding grounds
A mosquito lays eggs in 1cm of stagnant water. Check:
- Flower pot saucers (empty them)
- Blocked gutters
- Tarpaulins and garden equipment
- Children's toys left outside
- Unused inflatable pools (cover them)
Personal protection
Natural body repellents
- DEET (15-30%): most effective, not recommended for children under 12
- Icaridin: effectiveness similar to DEET, better tolerated by the skin
- Citriodiol (eucalyptus extract): natural and effective for 4-6 hours
Clothing
Light-colored and covering clothing reduces exposed areas. Mosquitoes can bite through thin fabrics — prefer thick fabrics on highly exposed areas (ankles, wrists).
The fan: the little-known trick
A fan creating an airflow of 1 to 2 m/s disrupts mosquito flight. Strategically placed on the terrace, it creates a natural protection zone. Our Portable Bladeless Neck Fan offers personal insect protection during outdoor outings.
Our ideal mosquito repellent kit for this summer
For serene evenings in the garden:
- 🔆 Portable USB Mosquito Repellent Lamp — covers up to 40m²
- 💨 Portable Bladeless Neck Fan — portable personal protection
- 🌿 Combine with repellent plants for maximum effectiveness
🎁 Code ETE2026 = -15% on all our outdoor products. Finally enjoy your summer evenings without mosquitoes!
Article written by the Best'n Deal team. Sources: Ministry of Health, ANSES. Last updated: May 2026.