If you’ve been bitten by the bug more than once, it’s time to take matters into your own hands — but don’t just slap away, there’s one more than one way to kill a mosquito, without irritating your nose or leaving your skin sticky. We’ve tried and tested these four solutions:
BEST FOR INSTANT DEATH
Daimaru Mosquito Killer
Nothing says summer more than the sound of crickets singing as night begins to fall — but from where we’re typing this article right now, there’s another sound that’s making us smile: mosquitoes getting instazapped. There are a couple of electronic mosquito killers in the market, but we prefer Daimaru because of its simple design and portable size, which means we can move it around where there’s an electrical outlet.
How it works: Two blue lights (10 or 15 watts each) mimic the human body’s temperature to lure mosquitoes to a grill in the middle of the machine. When mosquitoes make contact, they get shocked to death. Depending on usage, lights should last for at least six months.
Where to get it: Handyman (check www.handyman.com.ph for location of outlets). PHp1,299.75 for 10 watts and PHP1,549.85 for 15 watts.
BEST FOR THE FASHIONISTA
Cadentia Nature Anti-Moustiques
This imported refreshing cologne has the essences of tea and citronella. And because it’s made in France, the packaging details the scent’s head notes (bergamot, lemon and green tea), heart notes (tea flower, jasmine, peony and cardamon) and deep notes (white cedar and musk).
How it works: Spray it, don’t say it.
Where to get it: Purchase online (www.seektheuniq.com) or at Rustan’s, SM, Robinson’s and S&R outlets. PHP275/125ml and PHP375/250ml. Photo from Seek the Uniq.
BEST FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
Para’Kito
Popular in France and Spain, you wear this natural mosquito repellant either on your wrist or ankle, or clip it to your belt loop, and you won’t even know it’s there. It comes in a variety of color and designs, weighs next to nothing, and easily blends with your wardrobe. It’s also waterproof, so you don’t need to remove it when you’re washing your hands.
How it works: Para’Kito are pellets made from a combination of seven natural essential oils: lavendula, geranium, citronella, maritime pine, patchouli, clove and peppermint. It is hypoallergenic, non-toxic, and safe for children and pregnant women. One pellet can last 15 days.
Where to get it: Mothercare (check Mothercare’s Facebook Page for location of outlets). PHP799 including two pellets.
BEST FOR THE SENSITIVE NOSE
Bug Off Spray by The Farm at San Benito
If there’s one thing we don’t like, it’s mosquito sprays that smell like insecticide. Fortunately, this concoction by The Farm at San Benito smells every bit like sunshine, thanks to its unique blend of essentials oils of citronella, lemongrass, lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint dosed with moringa-infused virgin coconut oil.
How it works: Spray it in the room, behind curtains, on your clothes or directly on your body. It smells refreshing, feels light on the skin, and does not leave a sticky feeling.
Where to get it: The Farm at San Benito Sales Office, Shop 12, G/F The Peninsula Manila, Makati cor Ayala Avenues, Makati; +63 2 8848074. Mon-Sat 9am-6pm. PHP250 per 50ml bottle.
