Summertime and the living’s easy. BBQ’s, lakeside hangouts, camping and….mosquitos. *Cue ominous music*
To prevent you and your family from becoming a mosquito’s main course you might reach for some conventional bug spray, promising to keep you and your loved ones safe from mosquito bites and the potential diseases they carry. Look before you reach, as your bug spray might be hiding the dangerous chemical DEET (also listed on labels as N, N-Diethyl-m-toluamide or N, N-Diethyl-3-Methyl benzamide) that does more harm than good. We’ve summed up 3 reasons below to switch to a natural bug spray this summer.
1. It’s bad for you.
Do you ever find it semi-alarming that the EPA clams that DEET is safe, however, requires that a slew of warnings are listed on any product that contains it?
The screenshot below is taken directly from the EPA’s website. If DEET is so safe, why avoid over-applications and wash it off after returning indoors? Why wash your clothes before wearing again? Seems a bit suspicious to us!
Don’t take our word for it though. Take a look at a recent study performed by a Duke University pharmacologist. They found that “rats treated with an average human dose of DEET (40 mg/kg body weight) performed far worse than control rats when challenged with physical tasks requiring muscle control, strength and coordination.” (source)
No wonder the EPA asks you to wash it off after use.
2. It’s bad for the planet.
The chemical neurotoxins found in conventional bug sprays don’t just affect you. When you shower away those toxins they go into our water systems and eventually end up in the oceans, affecting every bit of life on their way there. Sadly, a U.S Geological Survey report on water contaminants listed DEET as one of the top found compounds in the nation’s streams. The EPA even admits that DEET is “slightly toxic” to fish, birds, and aquatic invertebrates. Simply put: it’s not the best for the environment.
3. Natural alternatives work just as well (and they actually smell good!)
Okay, you believe us. You don’t want to use DEET products anymore, but mosquitos suck! Will you just have to live with their bites? We wouldn’t leave you hanging like that. Natural products using essential oils and age-old remedies work just as well at warding off mosquitos. Bug Off Spray is specially formulated & handmade by Lynn’s mother (Marie) and owner of Marie’s Soap. This 100% essential oil spray is designed to repel mosquitoes, fleas, chiggers, ticks, and other biting insects. It is completely chemical-free, safe for the environment, and effective. This great smelling, 100% natural, DEET free formula is totally safe for children and pets! Plus, when you wash it off, the fish are still happy. :)
