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The Best Bug Repellents

We’re currently testing two new sprays—Ben’s Tick Repellent and Proven Insect Repellent—and two new lotions, the Proven Mosquito and Tick Lotion and Sawyer Products Premium Insect Repellent.

For a bug blocker that’s safe and effective—and won’t stink or leave a puddle of oil on your skin—skip the DEET and get a picaridin formula like Sawyer Products Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin. It’s the best bottle of bug spray we found after testing 15 repellents and talking to everyone from the EPA to the American Mosquito Control Association.

Read the full guide from Doug Mahoney on Wirecutter's website here.

LAST UPDATED

December 3, 2023

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Wirecutter

Media Mentions from Wirecutter

Wirecutter’s mission is to recommend what really matters. Each year, we independently test and review thousands of products to help you find just what you need. Our goal is to save you time and eliminate the stress of shopping, whether you’re looking for everyday gear or gifts for loved ones.

We strive to be the most trusted product recommendation service around, and we work with total editorial independence. We won’t post a recommendation unless our writers and editors have deemed something the best through rigorous reporting and testing.

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Media Mentions

If covering up exposed skin is not possible, Tipton County Health Department officials also encourage residents to apply EPA-registered insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin...

Pharos-Tribune, Logansport, Ind.
Newspaper

Media Mentions

Sprays like Hot Shot Ant, Roach and Spider Killer and Sawyer Products Premium Insect Repellant—which uses the ingredient picaridin—are specifically designed to kill gnats.

Stephanie Osmanski
Sustainability Writer

Media Mentions

You can use [Sawyer Permethrin] to treat your clothing, hiking boots, hat, sleeping bag, tent, and backpack, Dr. Connally says.

Sara Coughlin