Here in the South we have our fair share of bugs, including commonly known offenders such as horse flies, bees, wasps and mosquitoes.
These stinging pests are a warm-weather annoyance that has to be endured when enjoying outdoor time, so whether you’re picnicking at Chastain Park or just hanging out in your own backyard, an insect-prevention plan is essential to a distraction- and bite-free outing. Here are some tools to add to your arsenal.
Radarcan Portable Mosquito 2.5-Sq Ft Insect Repeller ($17.97)
These wearable devices require no spraying, rubbing or chemical layer. No one will know you’re secretly fending off mosquitoes while wearing what looks like a colorful watch band. As a bonus, the device still repels even if left on a table or clipped to your bag, pocket or bike handle.
Lowe’s
4950 Peachtree Industrial Blvd.
Chamblee 30341
770.220.0153
lowes.com
Aunt Fannie’s Mosquito Wipe ($6.99)
A sophisticated alternative to messy sprays, these individually wrapped, DEET-free wipes protect skin from mosquito bites for up to four hours. Made with essential oils such as peppermint, lemongrass, sesame and olive, they repel naturally without chemicals and leave behind a minty scent without a sticky residue. Drop a few in your backpack or purse so you’re always prepared.
Target
5570 Roswell Rd.
Sandy Springs 30342
678.704.8120
target.com
Greenerways Organic DEET Free Bug Repellent ($8.99)
This natural, organic spray formula is nontoxic and fends off a variety of pests, including mosquitos, ticks and fleas that can be dangerous disease carriers. Citronella and cedar oil are the main ingredients, leaving behind a fresh scent minus the oily residue found in many chemical formulas. A fan favorite, it was recently voted one of the 10 best organic bug sprays by BestReviewsGuide.com.
Nuts ‘n Berries
4274 Peachtree Rd. N.E.
Atlanta 30319
404.254.0330
nutsnberries.com
Flowtron Electronic 1-Acre Mosquito Killer with Mosquito Attractant ($72.74)
This environmentally friendly lantern attracts and kills mosquitoes, black flies and other flying pests without you having to cover yourself and everyone else in stinky bug spray or treat your yard with pesticides. It protects up to one acre and can remain outdoors year-round.
The Home Depot
2525 Piedmont Rd. N.E.
Atlanta 30324
404.841.5608
homedepot.com
Thermacell MR300 Portable Mosquito Repeller ($24.99)
This convenient, easy-to-use device generates heat to vaporize liquid repellent, creating a protective 15-by-15 foot zone that drives away mosquitoes and other biting insects before they can bother you. It’s portable, lightweight and cordless, and uses a replenishable fuel cartridge that can last for hours or days. Perfect for camping or hiking.
Dick’s Sporting Goods
3535 Peachtree Rd.
Atlanta 30326
404.267.0200
dickssportinggoods.com
Skeem Design Citronella Sea Salt Votive Set ($64)
Stylishly shoo bugs away with these all-natural, 50-hour votive candles. In additional to insect repelling citronella, the blend includes sea salt and hints of jasmine. Handpoured, the silk-screened glass candle holders beautify your backyard or make a chic hostess gift for your next weekend gathering.
Ballard Designs
1235 Chattahoochee Ave. N.W.
Atlanta 30318
404.603.7033
ballarddesigns.com
Simply Buckhead is an upscale lifestyle magazine focused on the best and brightest individuals, businesses and events in Buckhead, Brookhaven, Sandy Springs, Dunwoody and Chamblee. With a commitment to journalistic excellence, the magazine serves as the authority on who to know, what to do and where to go in the community, and its surroundings.