Repellents

Insect Repellents

Definition: Insect repellents are substances designed to deter insects from landing on or approaching treated areas, preventing bites and infestations without necessarily killing the pests.

Types of Insect Repellents & Their Modes of Action

Synthetic Chemical Repellents

• Examples: DEET, Picaridin, IR3535, Permethrin
• Mode of Action:
  • Interferes with insect olfactory (smell) receptors, making it difficult for them to detect human skin, CO₂, or other attractants.
  • Permethrin works differently—it acts as a contact repellent and mild insecticide.
• Target Pests: Mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, biting flies, chiggers.
• Benefits:
  ✅ Highly effective for personal protection.
  ✅ Long-lasting (especially DEET and Picaridin).
  ✅ Safe when used according to label directions.

Natural & Botanical Repellents

• Examples: Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), Citronella, Neem Oil, Peppermint, Garlic, Clove Oil
• Mode of Action:
  • Produces strong odors that mask attractants, making it harder for insects to locate hosts.
  • Some (like neem and clove oil) have mild toxic effects on insects.
• Target Pests: Mosquitoes, ticks, flies, ants, cockroaches.
• Benefits:
  ✅ Safer for children and pets than synthetic repellents.
  ✅ Can be used indoors and outdoors.
  ✅ Often pleasant-smelling (e.g., citronella candles).

Spatial Repellents

• Examples: Mosquito coils, electronic diffusers, treated fabrics, essential oil misters.
• Mode of Action:
  • Disperses repellent chemicals into the air, creating a protective barrier that deters insects from entering the area.
• Target Pests: Mosquitoes, flies, no-see-ums.
• Benefits:
  ✅ Protects larger areas instead of just individuals.
  ✅ Reduces reliance on skin-applied repellents.
  ✅ Convenient for outdoor use (camping, patios).

Animal & Agricultural Repellents

• Examples: Capsaicin-based sprays, predator urine, garlic-based repellents.
• Mode of Action:
  • Creates an unpleasant taste, smell, or sensation to discourage insects from feeding on plants or animals.
• Target Pests: Aphids, deer flies, horse flies, mosquitoes.
• Benefits:
  ✅ Non-toxic and environmentally friendly.
  ✅ Reduces damage to crops, livestock, and gardens.
  ✅ Often biodegradable.

General Benefits of Repellents

✅ Prevents bites and disease transmission (e.g., mosquitoes carrying West Nile virus).
✅ Non-lethal approach—reduces insect-human contact without killing beneficial species.
✅ Variety of applications—personal use, home defense, agricultural protection.
✅ Can be combined with insecticides for dual protection.

Repellents are a key tool for pest prevention, especially in areas where insect-borne diseases or infestations are a concern.

At BES-TEX Supply, we provide high-quality pest control solutions to meet your needs. Visit us at 4512 Adobe Dr., San Angelo, TX 76903, or call 325.653.1300. Let us help you keep your home and business pest-free!