Best with DEET
OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent
Pros
- Provides reliable, long-lasting protection, up to eight hours
- The aerosol format allows for broad, even application
- The majority of users find it non-greasy
- Widely available and a trusted name in insect repellents
Cons
- Contains DEET, which some individuals prefer to avoid due to concerns about skin contact or a distinct chemical odor
Key Specs
- Time effective: 8 hours
- Active Ingredient: 25 percent DEET
- Type: Aerosol spray
- Use: Skin
- Scent: Chemical and pungent
This aerosol spray has been a long-standing favorite for robust insect protection in outdoor settings, and it is our top pick for a mosquito repellent containing DEET. Its formulation is designed to deter a wide array of biting insects, including mosquitoes, ticks, and biting flies.
Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent contains 25 percent DEET, which creates a vapor barrier around the skin that mosquitoes avoid. “In my experience, DEET is still the gold standard when it comes to repelling mosquitoes,” explains Dr. Kopelman. “I usually tell my patients to look for a formulation with around 20 to 30 percent DEET,” she says. This amount is adequate without the potential risk of skin irritation. Our research has found that this product is highly effective for extended periods in environments with significant insect activity. We should note our research found the scent of this product is a common point of discussion. While some find it tolerable, others note that the synthetic odor can be unpleasant.
Best with DEET for Extra Protection
Sawyer Products SP714 Premium Maxi DEET Insect Repellent
Pros
- Delivers exceptional protection for up to 10 hours in severe insect conditions
- A little goes a long way
- Can be applied to certain clothing items and gear, like mosquito nets
Cons
- Must apply sparingly due to high potency
Key Specs
- Time effective: 10 hours
- Active Ingredient: 98 percent DEET
- Type: Pump spray
- Use: Skin
- Scent: Refined chemical
For outdoor adventures that demand maximum protection against mosquitoes, this spray provides prolonged defense for up to 10 hours. In addition to its lasting power, we also like that it’s packaged as a non-aerosol pump spray, so you can control the application and avoid overapplying. Our research also found that the scent is well-tolerated because it lists a low-odor formulation.
Best with Picaridin
Sawyer Products SP543 Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin
Pros
- Effective for up to 12 hours against mosquitoes
- Described as having little to no odor
- Not sticky or greasy
- Safe for use on clothing, backpacks, and other synthetic materials, as it won't damage plastics
- Considered suitable for the entire family, including children as young as six months
Cons
- Packaging can be leaky
- May not be ideal for areas with heavy insect infestations
Key Specs
- Time Effective: 12 hours
- Active Ingredient: 20% Picaridin
- Type: Pump spray
- Use: Skin
- Scent: None
Best Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus Spray
Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent
Pros
- Effective protection against mosquitoes for up to six hours
- Refreshing lemon eucalyptus scent
- Chemical-free formulation
Cons
- Some note a slightly oily or sticky residue on the skin
- Reapplication may be needed more frequently than with some chemical-based products
Key Specs
- Time Effective: 6 hours
- Active Ingredient: 30 percent OLE/PMD
- Type: Pump spray
- Use: Skin
- Scent: Refined chemical
“I actually really like this option for people who want a botanical alternative,” says Dr. Kopelman. “I’ve had patients who swear by it—and the data supports that it can be quite effective. It’s a great pick if you’re looking for something plant-based but still potent.” Dr. Kobets is also a fan of this product, adding, “OLE/PMD has a strong mosquito protection.” It works by masking human odors that attract mosquitoes and repelling them with the PMD (Para-Menthane-3,8-diol) scent.
Best for Kids
Zevo On Body Mosquito Repellent
Pros
- Gentle on the skin and suitable for family use, including children
- Odorless and non-sticky
- Effective at repelling mosquitoes for up to six hours
Cons
- Less potent compared to DEET or Picaridin
- You may need to reapply more frequently for adequate protection
Key Specs
- Time effective: 8 hours
- Active Ingredient: 20 percent IR3535
- Type: Aerosol spray
- Use: Skin
- Scent: None
Although it’s listed as effective for up to eight hours, consider using this repellent for short outdoor exposures or in areas with a low mosquito population. Dr. Kobets tells us that, while it’s an effective repellent, it’s not as effective as formulas with DEET and picaridin.
Best for Clothing
Sawyer Products Permethrin Fabric Treatment
Pros
- Highly effective against mosquitoes when applied to clothing
- Lasts up to six weeks or six washes
- Does not damage synthetic fabrics or other gear
- Allows for skin to remain free of topical repellents
Cons
- Must be applied to clothing and allowed to dry completely before wearing; not for direct skin application
- Effectiveness may diminish over time with repeated washes or prolonged sun exposure if not re-treated
Key Specs
- Time effective: 6 weeks or 6 washes
- Active Ingredient: 0.5 percent permethrin
- Type: Pump spray
- Use: Clothes
- Scent: None
This product works by creating a barrier that repels and can even kill insects upon contact. When mosquitoes come into contact with clothing or gear treated with permethrin, it affects their nervous system, leading to disorientation, paralysis, and ultimately death. Once the application to clothing has dried, which typically takes a few hours but could take longer if you’re in a humid environment, the treatment is effective for up to six weeks or six washes, making it convenient for camping trips when you’re spending extended time outdoors.
Best for Gear
Repel Permethrin Clothing & Gear Insect Repellent
Pros
- Excellent for repelling and killing mosquitoes
- Effective for multiple washes or for an extended time on untreated gear
- Odorless once dry
- Won't stain or damage fabrics
Cons
- Spray nozzle may clog
- Requires pre-planning, as items need to be treated and dried before use
Key Specs
- Time effective: 2 weeks
- Active Ingredient: 0.5 percent permethrin
- Type: Pump spray
- Use: Gear
- Scent: None
This spray, which has a 0.5 percent concentration of permethrin, is valued for its ability to keep a wide range of insects at bay from fabrics, contributing to an overall bug-free experience in outdoor environments. It creates a "kill zone" on treated gear, such as tents or sleeping bags, reducing the number of mosquitoes that can bite or remain nearby.
Best Device
Thermacell E-Series Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller
Pros
- Creates a scent-free and spray-free zone of protection, reducing the need for skin application
- Rechargeable battery offers convenient portability and reuse
- Quiet operation with no open flame or direct skin contact
Cons
- Effectiveness can be reduced in windy conditions, as the repellent vapor disperses quickly
- Only intended for stationary use in an area
Key Specs
- Time effective: 12 hours per cartridge
- Active Ingredient: Metofluthrin
- Type: Vapor
- Use: Outdoor Area
- Scent: None
This innovative device creates a protective zone against mosquitoes, offering an alternative to traditional topical repellents. The device is a spatial repellent, meaning it protects an area rather than an individual.
We love that this device is user-friendly and that it features a rechargeable battery. Plus, each 12-hour metofluthrin liquid refill cartridge is easy to order and stock up on, ensuring your device is always ready to use throughout the summer on patios, backyards, and porches.
Why Trust Everyday Health
Jill Di Donato
Author
Jill has over 15 years of experience writing about women's health, wellness, and beauty. She has deep knowledge of buzzy products and what makes them popular with consumers. She's tested hundreds of skin care products, tools, and medical aesthetics procedures throughout her career, and she has interviewed top dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and holistic physicians to stay on top of the latest in skin health and wellness.
Jill is the former associate editorial operations director of the beauty group at Dotdash Meredith, where she worked on brands such as Shape and Byrdie, editing health, fitness, skin care, wellness, and body care commerce content.
She's also a former sex and relationship writer, and has made national television appearances to discuss sexual wellness topics for women. In addition to anything beauty and sexual wellness, Jill specializes in writing about body neutrality and mental health.
Jill has a degree in sociology, with a focus on gender studies and she has taught sociology classes at Barnard and Columbia University.
Jacquelyn Dosal, MD
Medical Reviewer
Jacquelyn Dosal, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist practicing at The Dermatology House in Park City, Utah. Her areas of expertise include acne, rosacea, integrative treatments of inflammatory skin diseases, as well as laser treatment of the skin and injectables.
Dr. Dosal writes cosmetic questions for the certifying exams for the American Board of Dermatology. She is also the deputy editor for the American Academy of Dermatology's podcast, Dialogues in Dermatology.
Orlando de Guzman
Fact-Checker
Orlando de Guzman is a writer and editor with expertise in health and environmental news. He has a background in investigative and science journalism and has worked on documentary films about war and trauma, health, sanitation, and the changing climate around the world. His interest in health and medicine started after an early career as a medical and legal translator.
De Guzman is a longtime health and fitness enthusiast who is interested in nutrition, diet, and mental health. He participates in endurance sports and cross-trains in several traditions of martial arts from Southeast Asia. De Guzman is interested in how the progressively complex movements of martial arts training can improve cognition and mental well-being, especially for those with PTSD and for those approaching middle age and beyond.
De Guzman has a dual B.A. in communications and international studies from the University of Washington in Seattle. He is committed to factual storytelling and evidence-based reporting on critical choices that affect our planet.
Alexandra Klausner
Editor
Alexandra Klausner is a freelance health writer and editor with over 10 years of journalism experience. Prior to going freelance, she worked as a reporter and editor at the New York Post for eight years covering everything from health and wellness to features and breaking news. Before that, she covered multiple beats at the Daily Mail Online for three years.
Alexandra graduated from Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs with a bachelor's degree in theater. As a New York City native, she is also a grant-winning playwright, actor, freestyle singer, catchy-hook writer, and podcaster. She loves yoga, 5 Rhythms dance meditation, and running.