Best insect repellents of 2023
Don’t let pests run—or ruin—your life. The best insect repellent will keep your skin protected and ward off bug-borne illnesses.
Whether we’re in the middle of nature or in the comfort of our own homes, rude, biting bugs can wreak havoc on humans and pets, like scores of Davids going up against a single Goliath. Effective bug control begins with the best insect repellent. It’s a proactive way to keep the critters away before they leave their mark on our sensitive skin or do more serious damage. But it can be overwhelming to browse through rows of sprays, lotions, wipes, bracelets and even electronic insect repellent. We’re here to help you find the repellents that really, genuinely work.
- Best overall: Thermacell E55 Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller
- Best picaridin: Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent
- Best for babies: Cutter Mosquito Wipes
- Best premium: Thermacell LIV Smart Mosquito Repellent System
- Best for dogs: Wondercide Flea, Tick, and Mosquito Spray
- Best budget: OFF! Deep Woods Insect & Mosquito Repellent
How we chose the best insect repellents
What do solar generators, tents, and coolers have in common? They’re all things you enjoy outdoors—or at least you should enjoy outdoors, insect adversaries allowing. That’s why we’d argue that effective repellent is one of the most important things you can pack on a camping trip—without it, you’d be itchy, uncomfortable, and putting yourself at risk of getting a bug from a bug. We turned to reviews, recommendations, and user testing to find the best insect repellents. Continue reading the full article, written by Jeremy Helligar here.
October 20, 2023
Popular Science
Popular Science has been demystifying the worlds of science and technology since 1872. We explain the inner workings of the phone in your pocket, explore world-changing innovations, and examine everything from the marvels of deep space to the secret lives of staples like bread. We deliver an engaging, approachable, and inclusive look at emerging technologies and scientific advances. Daily, PopSci unpacks the science behind the top current news stories, dissects the latest technology and digital trends, and helps readers life smarter, safer, and happier through clever DIY projects.
Explore More Content
Media Mentions
Zenovia Stephens, ...told SELF it was her favorite bug spray for hikes and backpacking trips, and that she used it on herself as well as her kids.
Media Mentions
[Sawyer Picaridin] the best bottle of bug spray we found after testing over 25 repellents and talking to everyone from the EPA to the American Mosquito Control Association.
.png)
Media Mentions
We have found the most effective and long-lasting solution to be a portable hollow fibre membrane filter that eliminates 99.99999% of harmful bacteria, the most common form of contamination seen in fresh surface water, rainwater and wells.
From the Squad
Campfire conversations with our community, from Squad Members and Ambassadors to Brand Partners and the Sawyer team.
