The Best Bug Repellents
Everyone should avoid bug bites, which are annoying at best and debilitating (or even lethal) in worst-case scenarios.
For a bug repellent that’s safe and effective—and that won’t stink or leave a puddle of oil on your skin—skip the DEET and get a picaridin formula, like Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent. It’s the best bottle of bug spray we found after testing 23 repellents and talking to everyone from the EPA to the American Mosquito Control Association.
How we picked
- EPA approval - EPA-approved repellents have undergone extensive safety and efficacy testing and can be trusted.
- 20% picaridin - Most of our recommendations use a 20% concentration of picaridin, which offers long-lasting repellency for ticks and mosquitoes with none of DEET’s downsides.
- Testing, within limits - We test our picks for usability, as opposed to efficacy, because the variables of environment, physiology, and bug behavior affect performance.
- Spray matters - The best repellents have a nice, even spray that is easy to apply. The worst ones are spitty and messy, and can overspray or puddle up.
October 22, 2023
Doug Mahoney
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Media Mentions
It absolutely works like a charm whether you’re sitting in the backyard or hiking deep in the woods.
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Media Mentions
If you have some that isn’t pre-treated with permethrin, you can buy some to spray on your own netting/clothing before use.
Media Mentions
“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.
From the Squad
Campfire conversations with our community, from Squad Members and Ambassadors to Brand Partners and the Sawyer team.
