There are several different kinds of mosquito repellent.
A number of rodent and insect repellents exist. They include chemical, physical, sonic and homemade solutions to deter the pest in question. One repellent to deter all insect and mammal pests does not exist, but there may be one or more intended for almost every species. Does this Spark an idea?
Botanicals
For biting insects in particular, such as mosquitoes, extracts of plants are often reasonably effective. Citronella in several forms is the most widely used, especially for mosquitoes. Also effective can be lavender and eucalyptus. Reapply bodily application repellents based on plant extracts frequently. For rodents, in particular mice, peppermint oil is often extremely effective. Soak cotton balls in the oil and stuff into mouse holes, mouse runways and under furniture.
Chemicals
Most chemical repellents are for insects rather than rodents. For mosquitoes and other biting insects and arachnids, some of the most effective repellents contain DEET -- N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide. This is a potent chemical designed for direct application to the skin. It does have some potential side effects, but when disease-carrying insects are prevalent, the risks are probably worth it. Another widely used ingredient is permethrin, which you should apply to clothing or bedding, not your skin. It is actually an insecticide but often sold as a repellent. This substance works on flies and mosquitoes among other insects.
Sonic
Ultrasonic repellents, which emit sounds too high pitched for humans to hear, to repel mice and rats are available, with varied reports of success. The University of Kentucky states these do not work at all, but they may work on some populations of rodents, at least temporarily. However, it seems likely that while rodents may be initially startled by what is, to them, a loud noise, they will quickly become accustomed to it and return. Sonic repellents for mosquitoes are also available, again with mixed reports of success. Laboratory tests show no repellent qualities, according to Colorado State University.
Physical
Physical barriers, alone or in combination with repellents, are frequently the best way to deter rodents and insects. Barriers for insects include mosquito nets, window screens, long sleeves, long pants and boots. Talcum powder blocks the paths of ants entering a house. For rodents, physically blocking their entrances keeps them out of a house, providing you can find all the entrances. For mice and rats, block all gaps over a ¼-inch wide. Larger rodents, such as squirrels, can be kept out of a house and away from plants with fine wire mesh tacked over gaps or around plants.
Tags: biting insects, mice rats, reports success, widely used