How Long Do Mosquito Repellents Last?

Whether you have purchased a bottle of bug spray recently or have had it for some time, you may wonder how long mosquito repellents can last. This depends on the product you buy and how it is stored.

Most insect repellents are designed to be effective for up to three years. After that, the effectiveness may decrease and the formulation may become less effective.

If you aren’t sure how to dispose of your bug spray, contact your local waste management agency. They will give you instructions on how to properly dispose of your container. The containers for non-refillable products will need to be emptied before disposal.

Insect repellents are generally regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). However, federal laws don’t require them to have expiration dates. Depending on your local waste regulations, you can dispose of your used bug spray in regular garbage.

If you are using a product that contains a chemical compound such as DEET, the chemical is very stable and has a very long shelf life. It is also very effective at killing mosquitoes.

If you use a product that contains natural plant oils, you may find that they lose their effectiveness over time. Some oils such as lemon eucalyptus never go bad. Other oils, such as benzaldehyde, will last up to 18 months.

If you aren’t sure what expiration date to look for, check the label on your product. Some brands have voluntary or non-voluntary expiration dates. If your product is damaged or does not smell as it did when you bought it, you should replace it.

Continue reading:

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