Bug Repellents That Work

Mosquito and tick bites aren’t just annoying–they spread dangerous diseases. In this episode, senior staff writer Doug Mahoney shares proven prevention tips and breaks down the differences between various effective repellents.
‍
He also explains why you should avoid certain “natural” repellents, like essential oils and citronella candles, and why bug zappers are bad for the environment.

Click to watch the video from the New York Times Podcasts.

Senior Staff Writer

Doug Mahoney

Doug Mahoney is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter covering home improvement.

/

YouTube: New York Times Podcasts: Bug Repellents That Work

Doug Mahoney

Last updated:

October 21, 2025

| 5 min read

Bug Repellents That Work

Mosquito and tick bites aren’t just annoying–they spread dangerous diseases. In this episode, senior staff writer Doug Mahoney shares proven prevention tips and breaks down the differences between various effective repellents.
‍
He also explains why you should avoid certain “natural” repellents, like essential oils and citronella candles, and why bug zappers are bad for the environment.

Click to watch the video from the New York Times Podcasts.

Senior Staff Writer

Doug Mahoney

Doug Mahoney is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter covering home improvement.

/

Senior Staff Writer

Doug Mahoney

Doug Mahoney is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter covering home improvement.

See author bio

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YouTube: New York Times Podcasts: Bug Repellents That Work

Doug Mahoney

Last updated:

May 28, 2025

| 5 min read

Bug Repellents That Work

Mosquito and tick bites aren’t just annoying–they spread dangerous diseases. In this episode, senior staff writer Doug Mahoney shares proven prevention tips and breaks down the differences between various effective repellents.
‍
He also explains why you should avoid certain “natural” repellents, like essential oils and citronella candles, and why bug zappers are bad for the environment.

Click to watch the video from the New York Times Podcasts.

Senior Staff Writer

Doug Mahoney

Doug Mahoney is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter covering home improvement.

/

Senior Staff Writer

Doug Mahoney

Doug Mahoney is a senior staff writer at Wirecutter covering home improvement.

learn about the author

Media Mentions

Campfire conversations with our community, from Squad MembersSquad Members and Ambassadors to Brand Partners and the Sawyer team.

We build products withindustry-leadingstandards and technology, designed to keep you outdoors for longer. Explore what others are saying about Sawyer.

News fromSawyer HQin Tampa Bay, FL, including product resources, updates in technology, and recent brand developments.

NewThere’s nothing like seeing hearing from those who are personally touched by the promise ofclean water. Explore their stories and lift your soul; you’ve made this work possible.

Stories and experiences encompassing a spread of outdoor enthusiasms, from theBackcountry to the Backyard^TM. What keeps you outdoors?

Trail tips and packing list guides for backcountry travel, gear choices.Trail guidesfor hiking, biking, thru-hiking and more.

Read aboutproduct reviewsfrom various media outlets, customers, community members, and outdoor gear websites.

browse all articles

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