10 Most Effective Insect Repellents To Use This Summer

First, let’s take a look at some of the most common ingredients that show up in bug repellents. Then, we’ll review our top 10 picks for bug sprays and insect repellents to get you through the summer season.

Common Insect Repellent Chemicals and Ingredients

• DEET: According to the CDC, products containing DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide) tend to provide the longest-lasting protection. Be sure to read labels regarding warnings when it comes to using products containing DEET.
• Picaridin: The CDC also points to Picaridin as a long-lasting insect repellent option. The same precautions should be taken as when using DEET.
• Citronella: Citronella is a natural insect repellent alternative. However, LiveScience reports that some studies indicate that it may only provide about 20 minutes of protection.
• Essential oils (lemongrass, eucalyptus): Like citronella, these essential oils can be used as a natural alternative to chemicals. MorningChores.com considers them to be effective as warding of biting and stinging bugs.

Now, let’s look at our top 10 picks for the most effective insect repellents for the summer season.

1. Repel Lemon Eucalyptus

If you’re looking for an insect repellent that doesn’t contain DEET, a lemon eucalyptus-based product like Repel can be a great option. 

2. Natrapel 8 Hour

According to Today.com, Consumer Reports claims that Natrapel 8 Hour is one of the top three most effective repellents available. It contains 20% picaridin by volume. 

3. Off! Deep Woods

Off! Deep Woods can be a good choice for those opting to spend their day in a heavily wooded area. It helps keep away biting insects, including ticks and chiggers.

4. Intelligent Nutrients Certified Organic Perfume Spray

This natural, essential oil-based repellent can keep bugs away and take the place of your perfume at the same time.

5. The Honest Co. Bug Spray

The Honest Co. offers this DEET-free natural bug spray alternative for those looking to avoid chemicals. They claim it’s been lab-tested to last for up to 3 hours.

6. Cutter Skinsations

This DEET-based insect repellent claims to repel mosquitoes that transmit the Zika and West Nile viruses. It’s non-greasy and contains aloe and vitamin E to help moisturize the skin.

7. Sawyer Low DEET Absorption

This 20% DEET-based repellent is applied as a lotion. One thing that sets it apart from other options is its method of action: it releases DEET over a period of time rather than all at once, effectively reducing the absorption rate by 67% per application according to their website.

8. Bite Blocker Organic Xtreme

Bite Blocker is a waterproof formulation which contains geranium oil. It claims to provide up to 8 hours of protection from biting and stinging bugs.

9. 3M Ultrathon Insect Repellent

3M Ultrathon Insect Repellent Lotion was developed by 3M for the US military. Thanks to its extended release formula, it’s designed to provide up to 12 hours of insect protection.

10. Quantum Health Buzz Away

This natural insect spray contain a blend of essential oils including citronella, peppermint, eucalyptus, lemongrass, and cedarwood. It’s designed to offer both a pleasant scent and protection from bugs like mosquitoes.

Safety First

Remember, it’s essential to always read insect repellent labels in their entirety before applying them. Check the warnings, and pay particular attention to whether or not a particular repellent is safe for children. In some instances, there may be a minimum age requirements for a repellent to be applied safely.

While insect repellents are essential for picnics and outdoor events, you shouldn’t have to apply repellent while lounging on your porch in the summer. With the right summer pest control service, insects in and around your home can be a thing of the past. Contact Home Pest Control today to learn about our Home Shield Pest Prevention Program.