The 10 Best Bug Sprays For Pest-Free Summers
:upscale()/2023/07/05/965/n/1922729/a8c58fe764a5ea5e1de1c2.39732289_.jpg)
When the sun is shining and the weather is perfectly warm, there's no doubt you want to spend your time outdoors. However, along with sunshine and fresh air, there are a few pesky pests that can quickly turn a pleasant experience into a nightmare. Mosquitoes, gnats, ticks, and other insects and bugs are not only annoying to deal with, but also can affect our health if we get bitten. That's why it's extremely important to invest in a quality bug spray or two for those summer adventures. Not sure where to begin? We rounded up the best bug sprays on the market, including natural options, for all skin types.
When it comes to choosing the best insect repellent for your skin, you need to consider effectiveness, skin sensitivity, and other personal preferences. If you're looking for reliable protection, DEET-based sprays are your best bet, but if you're not a fan of the smell, go for options that are picaridin-based. We also included several natural bug repellents for those who prefer ones containing essential oils that are a little more eco-friendly. We even found a bug spray that works on fabrics, so you don't have to spray on your skin directly. From outdoor BBQs and dinner parties to camping and hiking adventures, you'll be able to do it all without getting bitten. Keep reading to shop our top picks and have a pest-free summer.
:upscale()/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/2661850c35a4ea67_netimgbOzd1K.jpg)
Best Unscented Bug Spray
Off! FamilyCare Insect & Mosquito Repellent Spritz Unscented ($6, originally $9)
This FamilyCare insect repellent from Off! is great for those who aren't a fan of the strong scents that traditional bug sprays have. The formula masks the fragrance of the DEET smell, and it is nongreasy and works on skin and clothing. Plus, this contains aloe vera, which is soothing for the skin.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/2661850c35a4ea67_netimgbOzd1K.jpg)
:upscale()/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/69a65e90c7ae003f_netimgNI7llQ.jpg)
Best Bug Spray For Long-Lasting Protection
Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent ($24, originally $30)
If you're looking for long-lasting protection, this Deep Woods formulation from Off! is a great option. This pack of four has a nongreasy formula with 25 percent DEET, and it's effective for up to eight hours. This dries on your skin, so you don't feel any sticky residue.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/69a65e90c7ae003f_netimgNI7llQ.jpg)
:upscale()/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/b2f1c8a63de0163b_netimg9ZlEGX.jpg)
Best Bug Spray With DEET
Ben's 100 Tick and Insect Repellent Pump ($21)
Formulated with a potent amount of DEET, this insect repellent is one of the most effective on the market. It provides up to 10 hours of protection and is best to use in areas with high levels of bugs and insects. This set comes with two bottles.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/b2f1c8a63de0163b_netimg9ZlEGX.jpg)
:upscale()/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/70cc4cce6de07c3b_netimgjWAGE7.jpg)
Best Bug Spray With Essential Oils
Badger Bug Spray ($10)
Providing up to three hours of protection from mosquitoes, Badger's bug spray has no DEET and is a natural formula. It contains citronella, rosemary, and lemongrass essential oils to ward off those pesky bugs and insects. This is great for everyone, including kids and adults.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/70cc4cce6de07c3b_netimgjWAGE7.jpg)
:upscale()/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/6d7c4781e589b80c_netimglCTAXj.jpg)
Best Bug Spray That's Organic
Sky Organics Organic Bug Spray ($12, originally $20)
If you're on the hunt for an organic bug spray, this one from Sky Organics can be used on the body and the face. It's formulated with citronella and lemongrass essential oils, and it's safe for kids to use as well. This is a DEET- and alcohol-free bug spray.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/6d7c4781e589b80c_netimglCTAXj.jpg)
:upscale()/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/5cccceeb9f20c810_netimgZvH8Zx.jpg)
Best Bug Spray For Active Days
Repel Insect Repellent Sportsmen Max Formula ($9, originally $17)
The Repel Insect Repellent Sportsmen Max Formula is made for those who are active in the outdoors, like hikers, backpackers, and golfers. It contains 40 percent DEET for long-lasting protection against ticks, gnats, mosquitoes, and the works. You can also get two aerosol cans for less than $10.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/5cccceeb9f20c810_netimgZvH8Zx.jpg)
:upscale()/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/306d3608b4e2ea16_netimgbxm23N.jpg)
Best Bug Spray That's Hydrating
Bug Soother ($20)
If you're looking for a natural bug repellent that's hydrating, Bug Soother should be your go-to. Great for all ages, this bug spray is formulated with lemongrass essential oil, glycerin, castor oil, and vitamin E. You get three four-ounce bottles as well as one travel-size bottle.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/306d3608b4e2ea16_netimgbxm23N.jpg)
:upscale()/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/ea803dacefce6839_netimgPp8Gq6.jpg)
Best Bug Spray For Clothing, Gear, and Tents
Sawyer Premium Insect Repellent ($18, originally $21)
If you're looking to add extra protection while you're out and about and you prefer something that doesn't go directly on your skin, get the Sawyer Premium Insect Repellent. This can only be sprayed on your clothing and gear, including backpacks and tents. The permethrin insect repellent bonds to fabric fibers for long-lasting protection. It lasts for up to six weeks, or through six washes.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/ea803dacefce6839_netimgPp8Gq6.jpg)
:upscale()/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/c958526bc43d25b9_netimgjatDRq.jpg)
Best Bug Spray With Lemon and Eucalyptus Oil
Murphy's Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Insect Repellent ($20, originally $22)
Formulated with lemon and eucalyptus oil, this natural insect repellent can protect you for up to four hours against ticks and six hours against mosquitoes. You can spray this on your skin and your gear. This DEET-free formula comes as a set of two.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/c958526bc43d25b9_netimgjatDRq.jpg)
:upscale()/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/b91272ee81e25698_netimgbluLdN.jpg)
Best Bug Spray For Kids
Babyganics Insect Spray ($23)
If you're looking for something that's safe and comfortable for your kids, the Babyganics Insect Spray is something you should consider. It's formulated with citronella, peppermint, rosemary, lemongrass, and geranium essential oils to ward off pesky pests without harsh smells. It comes in a pack of two.
:extract_cover():upscale():fill(ffffff)/2023/07/05/966/n/1922729/b91272ee81e25698_netimgbluLdN.jpg)