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The Best Insect Repellents to Protect You From Bug Bites in Summer 2022

Steer clear of mosquitoes, ticks, and other pests with these EPA-approved bug sprays, lotions, and wipes.

Spending time outdoors is more important than ever these days. But in summer, there’s a new threat to worry about: bugs. On top of itchy bites, tiny bloodsuckers like mosquitoes and ticks can spread serious diseases.

Enter insect repellents, or your first line of defense against practically any pest you rather avoid. Still, there are tons of repellents to choose from, “and they work to varying levels of effectiveness,” explains Mike Merchant, Ph.D., a professor and urban entomologist at Texas A&M University’s AgriLife Extension Service. Here, everything you need to know to choose an effective bug spray, plus the best ones to stock up on written by Jake Smith.

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December 3, 2023

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It absolutely works like a charm whether you’re sitting in the backyard or hiking deep in the woods.

Diva Anwari
Contributor for MSN.

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If you have some that isn’t pre-treated with permethrin, you can buy some to spray on your own netting/clothing before use.

The RV Geeks
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“We tested this bug repellent on park outings and used it for a long day of yard work. It earns high marks for effectiveness, keeping us protected from any bug bites, even despite exposure to sweat,” The Spruce says.

Dawn Magyar
NJ Advance Media for NJ.com