Weindependently evaluateall of our recommendations.
If you select links we provide, we may receive compensation.
DEET is the most widely used and has proven to providelong-lasting defense against a wide variety of insects.
The Spruce
Our Top Picks
Best Overall
Off!
We were also impressed by how well the aerosol spray dispersed the product.
We tried spraying it from different anglesand even upsideand it went on evenly and thoroughly every time.
PHOTO: Amazon
However, it should not be applied to rayon, spandex, or leather.
After each use, we had to wash our clothing to get rid of the scent.
Its a solid choice for outdoor activities such as hiking trips, sports games, and backyard barbecues.
PHOTO: The Spruce
Still, it kept us almost entirely bug-free during our park and beach outings, even in high humidity.
Although this formula is unscented, it does have a slight odor thats hardly noticeable and dissipates quickly.
This makes it ideal for beach trips, as it prevents salt and sand from sticking to your skin.
We wish this repellent were available in a more compact size for easier portability.
However, this minor inconvenience is a small price to pay for comfortable and reliable insect protection.
Packed with 20 percent DEET, it can fend off mosquitoes and ticks for up to 11 hours.
We didnt get any bug bites, despite heavy sweating and muggy conditions.
With a consistency similar to sunscreen, this formula is easy to apply.
While it felt a little greasy initially, the lotion fully absorbed into our skin within five minutes.
The controlled release formula is what really sets this repellent apart from the competition.
The DEET is encapsulated in a protein that dissolves slowly, ensuring continuous protection over an extended period.
One thing to keep in mind, however, is that DEET isnt as effective on flies as picaridin.
PHOTO: Amazon
If its flies that youre battling, you may want to considerSawyer Picaridin Insect Repellentinstead.
This is why Sawyer’s lotion-based picaridin insect repellent really appealed to use during the testing process.
When first applied, we noticed a mild citrus fragrance that quickly faded.
PHOTO: The Spruce
Much like body lotion or sunscreen, Sawyers insect repellent is nearly effortless to apply.
Thanks to its white color, you could easily see where its been applied to the skin.
Plus, we love the fact that it’s safe for use on children when applied as directed.
We really appreciate the wide-angle spray nozzle, which makes utility quick and easy.
Just be sure to rub it in thoroughly to avoid any white residue on your skin.
We also like that this repellent comes in a four-ounce travel-size bottle, perfect for on-the-go use.
It’s also available in a 0.6-ounce, pocket-sized container for optimal portability.
Deep Woods Insect Repellent.
In one hot spot where weve been bitten numerous times, we only sustained a bite or two.
The product definitely has a noticeable fragrance.
We also love the fact this lightweight formula doesnt need to be rubbed in and leaves behind no residue.
We evaluated each product on its ease of system, coverage, scent, effectiveness, and portability.
PHOTO: Amazon
Picaridin and DEET are among the most popular and widely used options.
IR3535 is another active ingredient found in some DEET-free bug repellents.
Its believed to be as effective as DEET against mosquitoes and offers superior protection against ticks.
PHOTO: The Spruce
As anatural alternative, the oil of lemon eucalyptus is a plant-based, eco-friendly solution.
Its important to keep in mind that effectiveness can vary depending on the bang out of insect.
tool Form
Insect repellents are usually applied using a pump sprayer, aerosol can, or lotion.
A pump spray or aerosol spray, like our overall best pickOFF!
Lotion formulas provide an alternative program option and are often easier to apply to children.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Sage McHughhas been covering home and garden topics and pest control for The Spruce since 2019.
McHugh has written numerous related articles, includingbest mosquito traps,must-have roach traps, andbest moth repellents.
PHOTO: Walmart
PHOTO: The Spruce
PHOTO: Amazon
PHOTO: The Spruce
PHOTO: Amazon
The Spruce
PHOTO: Amazon
The Spruce
The Spruce
The Spruce
