Weary of mosquito bites outdoors? The greatest mosquito repellents can help you to enjoy the outdoors free from worry and avoid bites. They shield against mosquitoes, but many also bedbugs, stink bugs, June bugs,and other parasites. We evaluated 15 insect repellents for value, fragrance, coverage, simplicity of use, and efficacy. We selected six top options from those.

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Best Overall

Off! Active Insect Repellent

Price at Amazon

Type: Aerosol | Active Ingredient: DEET | Protection Duration: 6 hours | Size: 6 ounces | EPA Registered: Yes

If you're searching for a mosquito repellent that is both dependable and powerful, Off! One excellent option is Active Insect Repellent. It can even be used on clothes and has a mild, non-greasy consistency with no overpowering smell.Our tests revealed that the aerosol spray was equally covered, easy to use, and did not leave darker skin tones appearing white.

This repellent, which is sweat-resistant, guards against a broad spectrum of pests including ticks, mosquitoes, fleas, and gnats. It lasts for up to six hours and we did not experience any bites even after only one application. Ideal for outdoor activities, it is also reasonably priced and absorbs quickly without leaving any sticky residue.

Best DEET Free

EarthKind Stay Away Mosquitoes Travel Size Insect Repellent

Price at Amazon

Type: Spray | Active Ingredient: Picaridin | Protection Duration: 8–14 hours, depending on pest | Size: 4 ounces | EPA Registered: Yes

One great choice for a mosquito repellent devoid of DEET is the EarthKind Stay Away Mosquitoes Insect Repellent. It works just as effectively as DEET and is thus ideal for those with sensitive skin or who prefer odor-free products since it is less oily and contains picaridin, an EPA-approved ingredient.

The product is moisturizing without being oily, and the spray nozzle covers broadly consistently. It provides ongoing protection, up to 14 hours against mosquitoes and ticks and 8 hours against gnats, chiggers, and biting insects. While it is water-resistant, swimming or extended contact to water is not advised since it is not waterproof. Though it may require more effort to apply it to them, children can also safely use it.

Best Long Lasting

Sawyer Controlled Release Insect Repellent

UP TO 17.59% OFF

Type: Lotion | Active Ingredient: DEET | Protection Duration: 11 hours | Size: 4 ounces | EPA Registered: Yes

For a long-lasting mosquito repellent, Sawyer Controlled Release Insect Repellent is rather good. Its controlled-release mechanism is noteworthy since it gradually distributes DEET to offer up to 11 hours of continuous protection. A little goes a long way; only a pea-sized amount covers both arms equally.

Though claimed to be "odorless," the repellent smells faintly and finally fades. Though initially it could seem a bit greasy, its long-lasting effectiveness against mosquitoes and ticks makes it a formidable contender. It provides consistent all-day protection for outdoor activities and also resists sweating and mixes perfectly with sunscreen.

Best Lotion

Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent

Price at Amazon

Type: Lotion | Active Ingredient: Picaridin | Protection Duration: 8-14 hours, depending on pest | Size: 2 or 4 ounces | EPA Registered: Yes

We suggest this Sawyer product as an efficient and user-friendly insect repellent lotion. The lotion's great coverage lets you clearly see where you have applied it and helps you to prevent missing any places. It is sweat-resistant, quick penetrates, leaves no trace of scent, and is The citrus scent is subdued and fleeting. Though the trade-off is small in comparison to the long-term protection it offers, it creates a white cast, like sunscreens.

Its picaridin composition makes it efficient against mosquitoes, biting flies, ticks, and chiggers among other types of insects. Not only that, but you can add it to your outdoor gear worry-free since it's safe to use on a lot of different materials.

Easiest Application

Coleman SkinSmart Insect Repellent

Price at Amazon

Type: Aerosol | Active Ingredient: IR3535 | Longevity: 6-8 hours | Size: 6 ounces | EPA Registered: Yes

We advise using Coleman SkinSmart Insect Repellent for mosquito control because it is simple to use and works well. Without leaving behind any sticky residue or white cast, the aerosol nozzle guarantees equal coverage, making it easy to apply and rub over the skin.

Eight-hour protection against ticks and mosquitoes of this repellent comes from IR3535, an EPA-registered active component. Thanks to its rust-resistant substance and locking mechanism that stops leakage, the bottle is a consistent choice for outdoor activities even if its somewhat larger size.

Best With SPF

Bullfrog Sunscreen and Insect Repellent

Price at Amazon

Type: Aerosol | Active Ingredients: Avobenzone, octocrylene, homosalate, octyl methoxycinnamate, octisalate | Longevity: 8 hours | Size: 4.7 ounces | EPA Registered: Yes

If you're trying for a remedy that both protects you from insects and the sun, Bullfrog Mosquito Coast Insect Repellant is what we advise. This spray provides SPF 50, which shields against harmful UVA and UVB radiation, hence it is ideal for sunny days. Along with providing up to eight hours of bug and mosquito protection, aloe vera and vitamin E help to keep your skin nourished without leaving a greasy residue.

Since it does not include DEET or oxybenzone, coral reefs are safe for use during water sports. You will have to reapply it if you wish to keep yourself covered against water for more than eighty minutes.

How to Shop for Mosquito Repellents Like a Pro

Type

Among the several forms mosquito repellant comes in are lotions, sprays, wipes, and oils. Consider your usual time allocation to ascertain which is best. For example, Off! Active Insect Repellent is a fantastic spray that works on both clothes and skin, but lotions could be easier to administer to kids.

List of Ingredients

Although IR3535 and lemon eucalyptus are equally effective, DEET and picaridin are the most prevalent active components in mosquito repellents. The typical protection duration for products containing 20% to 30% DEET is two to ten hours. Having said that, you won't get much better protection from DEET dosages above 50%.

• DEET is a military-created insecticide that has gained widespread recognition for its efficacy in combating ticks. Some drawbacks include the possibility of damaging particular materials and the presence of a greasy residue.
• Coming from the same plant as table pepper, picaridin is an odorless component. In contrast to DEET's extensive safety data, picaridin is efficient against a wide variety of insects.

Practicality and Implementation

Reapplying the repellent is necessary for some scenarios, such as when you're sweating or exposed to water. Example: the Sawyer Controlled Release Insect Repellent is sweat-resistant and provides 11 hours of continuous protection. To get the most out of your formulation, pick one that works for what you have in store.

This Bullfrog Mosquito Coast Sunscreen & Insect Repellant, with an SPF of fifty, serves multiple purposes. Sunscreen and insect protection in one convenient package; just remember to reapply every 80 minutes while swimming.

While effective mosquito repellents can provide temporary relief from bites, they often fail to address the root of the problem. For a long-term solution, professional pest control services are essential to eliminate infestations at their source. Here are some trusted companies offering safe, eco-friendly, and comprehensive pest management solutions.

RELATED: Top 10 Pest Control Companies in the U.S.: Experts in Keeping Your Home Pest-Free