The 10 Best Bug Sprays of 2023

One of the best bug sprays, Wondercide mosquito repellent, on a tan background. — Better Homes & Gardens / Maria Ridgway

Bug sprays are a safe and effective way to keep away annoying pests and prevent insect bites. Whether you’re looking for scented or unscented, DEET-free or plant-based, there are plenty of bug sprays to choose from.

“Most bug bites are harmless, yet some can spread dangerous diseases like Zika virus, malaria, and Lyme disease,” says Dr. Deirdre Hooper, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist at Audubon Dermatology. “It is important to take the necessary precautions to reduce your risk. If you are wearing bug spray with your sunscreen, apply the sunscreen first. Once it has dried, apply your repellent of choice.”

To pick the best bug spray recommendations, we researched the category, collected insights from experts, and considered factors like scent, length of protection, and targeted insects.

Disclaimer About Bug Sprays

Powerful and long-lasting bug sprays may contain chemicals such as DEET to effectively repel insects. DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) is an active ingredient in many bug sprays, especially those that offer strong protection against mosquito bites. Available in liquid, spray, or lotion bug sprays, it’s applied directly to the skin to help repel bugs.

DEET-based formulas can be harmful to humans and pets if inhaled or sprayed directly in the eyes. They can also sometimes cause rashes for those with sensitive skin. Although natural bug sprays that contain essential oils or plant-based ingredients are good alternatives, DEET-based formulas or other bug sprays containing chemicals are often the most effective.

“Generally, insect repellents are safe for everyone to use. However, for those with sensitive skin, finding the right insect repellent is trial and error. All liquid repellents applied to the skin can cause some irritation as they are alcohol-based and can sting,” Dr. Hooper says.

Since some bug sprays can potentially damage certain fabrics or materials, and may cause adverse reactions when in direct contact with skin, it’s important to review the ingredients and follow all product instructions. You should also understand any potential side effects and safety considerations of using chemical-based bug sprays.

Our Top Picks

Best DEET-Free:

Wondercide Natural Insect Repellent at Amazon

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Best for Ticks:

Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent at Amazon

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Best for Mosquitos:

Repel 100 Insect Repellent at Amazon

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Best Unscented:

Ranger Ready Tick & Insect Repellent at Amazon

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Best Natural:

Murphy's Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Insect Repellent at Amazon

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Best Scented:

Badger Anti-Bug Shake & Spray at Amazon

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Best for Travel:

US Organic Mosquito Repellent at Amazon

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Best for Fleas:

Vet's Best Dog Flea + Tick Home Spray at Amazon

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Best for Head Lice:

SoCozy Lice Spray at Amazon

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Best for Bed Bugs:

EcoVenger Bed Bug Killer at Amazon

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Wondercide Cedarwood Natural Insect Repellent

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Why You Should Get It

This DEET-free insect repellent uses natural essential oils for insect protection.

Keep in Mind

Although it can be used to fight off a variety of insects, it’s only been proven through lab testing to repel mosquitoes and ticks.

If you’re looking for a DEET-free bug spray that protects against a variety of insects, consider this plant-based mosquito, tick, fly, and insect repellent by Wondercide. Made in the USA and free of harmful pesticides, it’s both safe and effective. The bug spray is designed to repel mosquitoes in addition to other common pests, including gnats, ticks, fleas, no-see-ums, spiders, and flies.

It comes in a convenient two-pack and is available in a variety of essential oil scents, including cedarwood, lemongrass, peppermint, and rosemary. The 4-ounce spray bottles are convenient to take with you on camping trips or other outdoor activities but may not last as long as some of the other options on our list.

Price at time of publish: $24 for two 4-ounce bottles

Product Details: Scent: Cedarwood | Targeted Insects: Mosquitos, gnats, ticks, fleas, no-see-ums, spiders, and flies | Hours of Protection: One hour

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Why You Should Get It

This deep woods formula can protect you from ticks for up to eight hours.

Keep in Mind

It contains DEET and is made for outdoor activities, but may be too potent for everyday use.

The Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent is an ideal option for outdoor activities including hiking and hunting. It provides protection from ticks that may carry Lyme disease as well as other bugs including mosquitos, gnats, and chiggers. The deep woods formula is made out of 25% DEET and designed to provide protection for up to eight hours.

The formula doesn’t leave an oily or greasy residue, and it also has a pleasant lemon scent. This bug spray set comes with two 4-ounce aerosol spray cans so you can keep one at home and the other in your car, although it’s most suitable for outdoor activities as opposed to everyday use.

Price at time of publish: $13 for two 4-ounce cans

Product Details: Scent: Lemon | Targeted Insects: Ticks, mosquitos, biting flies, gnats, and chiggers | Hours of Protection: Eight hours

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Why You Should Get It

This bug spray offers protection against mosquitoes, including those that may carry the Zika, West Nile, Dengue and Chikungunya viruses.

Keep in Mind

It contains 98% DEET which means it is not recommended for use on children and may be a concern for some individuals with sensitive skin.

The best bug sprays provide long-term protection, like the Repel 100 Insect Repellent which can repel mosquitoes and other insects for up to 10 hours. This 98% DEET formula is recommended for use in heavily infested areas, and when you’re spending extended time outside around mosquitos.

It’s our top pick for keeping away mosquitoes, especially those that may carry Zika, West Nile or other viruses. It also offers protection against other insects you may encounter, including ticks, gnats, biting flies, chiggers, and fleas.

This bug spray comes in a compact spray bottle that’s easy to take with you on your next outdoor adventure. You can spray it on certain fabrics like cotton or wool, but it may damage some synthetic fabrics and surfaces so make sure to test a small area first. Since this bug spray has such a high concentration of DEET, it’s not recommended for use on children.

In addition to this bug spray, you may want to use a bug zapper to help keep mosquitoes (and other bugs) from biting you.

Price at time of publish: $17 for a 4-ounce bottle

Product Details: Scent: Unscented | Targeted Insects: Mosquitoes, ticks, gnats, biting flies, chiggers, fleas | Hours of Protection: 10 hours

Ranger Ready Insect Repellent with Scent Zero

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Why You Should Get It

This unscented bug spray is quick-drying and non-greasy.

Keep in Mind

It’s a manual spray, not an aerosol spray.

This unscented and non-greasy insect repellent can be sprayed on your body or gear when camping, hiking, or fishing. It contains 20% picaridin and offers protection against a range of insects, including ticks, mosquitoes, gnats, flies, chiggers, no-see-ums, and fleas.

Picaridin (which repels insects by disrupting their sense of smell) is a synthetic compound made from the natural compound piperine which is found in the group of plants used to make black pepper. The best bug sprays made with picaridin are just as effective as DEET-based varieties, but without the strong chemicals.

The Ranger Ready Insect Repellent can provide eight to 12 hours of protection depending on the insect. This quick-drying bug spray is a good option for the family and can be safely used on children over the age of one year old. It comes in a convenient and recyclable TSA-compliant spray bottle, so you can take it with you when you travel.

Price at time of publish: $12 for a 3.4-ounce bottle

Product Details: Scent: Unscented | Targeted Insects: Ticks, mosquitos, gnats, flies, chiggers, no-see-ums, and fleas | Hours of Protection: Eight to 12 hours, depending on which insect

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Why You Should Get It

This plant-based insect repellent is free of harsh chemicals, dyes, and synthetic fragrances.

Keep in Mind

It doesn’t protect against as many insects as some of the other options on our list.

The Murphy’s Naturals insect repellent is made of all-natural plant-based ingredients: lemon eucalyptus oil, distilled water, and ethanol made from corn. The CDC recommends oil of lemon eucalyptus as an effective plant-based alternative to DEET. This bug spray has a fresh lemon scent, but it doesn’t contain any synthetic fragrances.

It provides four to six hours of protection against mosquitoes and ticks; however, it doesn’t offer protection against other types of insects. It can be sprayed directly on your skin or your gear without causing any damage or exposing you to harsh chemicals.

This bug spray comes with two 4-ounce spray bottles made out of 25% recycled materials, which makes it an eco-friendly choice for keeping insects away. Murphy’s Naturals is also a Certified B Corporation, which means they meet high social and environmental standards.

Price at time of publish: $22 for two 4-ounce bottles

Product Details: Scent: Lemon | Targeted Insects: Mosquitos and ticks | Hours of Protection: Four to eight hours, depending on which insect

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Why You Should Get It

This citronella and lemongrass scented bug spray is organic and vegan.

Keep in Mind

While it may work on a variety of insects, it’s only been tested on mosquitos.

If you want a scented bug spray, consider this natural citronella and lemongrass option by Badger. Not only does it offer a pleasant aroma, but it’s also organic, vegan, gluten free, and DEET-free.

This plant-based bug spray uses pure essential oils versus strong chemicals to repel mosquitos, and can provide protection for up to three hours. It may also work on other bugs but has only been tested on mosquitos. For best results, shake the bottle before spraying it to ensure the essential oils and water mix.

This family-friendly scented bug spray can be used indoors and outdoors, but Badger doesn’t recommend spraying it directly on fabrics in case of potential stains. We also love that this insect repellent is made in a solar-powered facility and comes in a lightweight and recyclable aluminum bottle.

Price at time of publish: $20 for two 4-ounce bottles

Product Details: Scent: Citronella and lemongrass | Targeted Insects: Mosquitos | Hours of Protection: Three hours

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Why You Should Get It

This organic bug spray comes in a TSA-compliant spray bottle.

Keep in Mind

You may have to reapply this bug spray more frequently if you are sweating or in a windy environment.

Finding the best bug spray to bring on vacation is important, especially if you plan on traveling by airplane. This travel-friendly insect repellent by US Organic comes in a 2-ounce, TSA-compliant spray bottle, and it’s effective against mosquitoes.

This organic bug spray is made in the US and complies with EPA regulatory standards. The non-sticky, long-lasting formula can provide protection for up to four hours, has an herbal scent, and keeps skin moisturized.

Since it doesn’t contain preservatives or synthetic fragrances, it’s safe to use on children and expectant mothers. US Organics recommends reapplying this bug spray more frequently when you are sweating or in a windy climate.

Price at time of publish: $9 for a 2-ounce bottle

Product Details: Scent: Herbal | Targeted Insects: Mosquitos | Hours of Protection: Four hours

Vet's Best Flea & Tick Spray Treatment for Dogs

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Why You Should Get It

This plant-based flea and tick spray can effectively kill fleas, larvae, and eggs.

Keep in Mind

The spray needs to dry completely before allowing your dogs to groom themselves.

This natural bug spray protects dogs from fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. It uses plant-based ingredients like peppermint oil and eugenol from clove plants to kill bugs on contact. The 8-ounce spray bottle can effectively kill not only fleas, but also flea larvae and eggs for powerful protection.

Vet’s Best Flea & Tick Spray can be sprayed indoors or outdoors and is safe to use on dogs 12 weeks or older. For best results, spray on and brush through your dog’s hair throughout the year. After spraying, let it dry completely before allowing pets to groom themselves or each other. This product is made just for dogs and should not be used on humans.

Price at time of publish: $8 for an 8-ounce bottle

Product Details: Scent: Peppermint | Targeted Insects: Fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes | Hours of Protection: Not listed

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Why You Should Get It

The spray is made of all-natural ingredients with a non-sticky formula.

Keep in Mind

For the best protection against head lice, SoCozy recommends using the accompanying shampoo, which is sold separately.

The SoCozy Boo! Lice Scaring Spray repels lice while keeping hair soft. It’s safe to use in kid’s hair and does not contain any synthetic colors, dyes, parabens, or sulfates. The non-sticky formula can be sprayed on wet, damp, or dry hair and is designed for everyday use.

Made with essential oils, the main ingredients are tea tree, peppermint, rosemary extract, and keratin. The tea tree and peppermint repel lice while the keratin helps to strengthen, protect, and smooth hair. While this lice scaring spray is effective on its own, SoCozy recommends using the accompanying shampoo for the best protection against head lice.

Price at time of publish: $15 for an 8-ounce bottle

Product Details: Scent: Tea tree, peppermint, and rosemary | Targeted Insects: Head lice | Hours of Protection: Not listed

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Why You Should Get It

This powerful yet natural bug spray can effectively kill bed bugs on contact and provides additional protection for up to two weeks.

Keep in Mind

Large bed bug infestations may require more than one treatment.

This natural bed bug spray is the best bug spray for killing all stages of bed bugs, including eggs, nymphs, and adults. It’s made of non-toxic and eco-friendly plant-based ingredients which makes it safe to use around children and pets. We also love that it’s a USDA Certified Biobased Product. It can be used safely outside or inside the home, and can be sprayed directly on mattresses or box springs.

This long-lasting bug spray can provide protection for up to two weeks even after it’s dried, but you may need to use more than one treatment to completely get rid of large bed bug infestations. The EcoVenger Bed Bug Killer has undergone various tests to prove its effectiveness, including an independent study by Rutgers University published in the Journal of Economic Entomology.

Price at time of publish: $20 for a 16-ounce bottle

Product Details: Scent: Unscented | Targeted Insects: Bed bugs, dust mites, and fleas | Hours of Protection: Up to two weeks

The Bottom Line

For the best bug spray without DEET, we recommend the Wondercide Mosquito, Tick, Fly, and Insect Repellent because it can repel 98% of mosquitoes, and is available in a variety of essential oil scents including cedarwood, lemongrass, peppermint, and rosemary.

If you’re looking for a stronger bug spray to use in heavily infested areas, consider the Repel 100 Insect Repellent.

What to Know About Bug Sprays Before Shopping

Scent

It’s important to consider scent when choosing the best bug spray, although it typically doesn’t impact the effectiveness. There are plenty of options to choose from, including scented and unscented varieties. Lemon, peppermint, and cedarwood are popular scents for natural bug sprays made of essential oils.

If you are sensitive to certain smells, you may want to consider an unscented option and avoid DEET-based bug sprays since they can have a strong chemical smell. Unscented bug sprays are also an ideal choice when hunting since certain smells can keep away other animals aside from insects.

Targeted Insects

When shopping for bug spray, pay attention to the type of insects it offers protection against since not all bug sprays are effective against all insects. Some options, like the Ranger Ready Insect Repellent with Scent Zero, can protect you from a variety of insects including mosquitoes, ticks, flies, gnats, and other pests.

However, some are only proven effective against mosquitoes and others are targeted specifically for certain insects like bed bugs, fleas, or head lice.

Hours of Protection

The best bug sprays provide several hours of protection, but it varies based on the type of bug. This is an important feature to consider, especially if you are going camping, or hiking, or planning to be outside for long periods at a time.

Most of the options on our list can provide protection for at least two hours and some all the way up to 12 hours. The EcoVenger Bed Bug Killer can offer protection for up to two weeks. Bug sprays with strong ingredients like DEET tend to provide longer protection than those made out of less potent ingredients, like essential oils.

Your Questions, Answered

Does bug spray expire?

Most bug sprays last at least three years. It depends on the ingredients—plant-based natural bug sprays that contain essential oils typically expire sooner than those made of strong ingredients like DEET. “DEET has an infinite shelf life and theoretically won't expire. However, the product just may not work quite as well,” Dr. Hooper says.

Expired bug spray is not harmful, it just may be less effective. “Check the label from your favorite bug spray because best-by dates will vary,” says Tracey Brooks, senior director of brand and communications at Wondercide. “Best by just means the product will work optimally if used within that time frame.”

If you are unsure how old your bug spray is, it might be a good idea to replace it.

Is bug spray safe to use?

Yes, bug sprays are generally safe and effective. If you have really sensitive skin, you may prefer natural insect repellents made of plant-based ingredients like essential oils versus those made of DEET. Always follow the directions when using bug spray and avoid direct contact with eyes.

“Insect repellents that contain 20 to 30% DEET protect us against mosquitoes, ticks, and other bugs,” Dr. Hooper says. However, she says children 2 years and younger should not use repellents containing DEET.

Additionally, those with sensitive skin may prefer using DEET-free bug sprays. “A more pure or natural bug spray is often best for people with sensitive skin and avoiding known allergens,” Brooks says.

Dr. Hooper advises that those with particularly sensitive skin still may have a reaction to natural products. “Natural products can also cause skin irritation; however, those who are sensitive to DEET or prove to be allergic to the active ingredient in bug repellent, can use products with ‘natural’ ingredients such as lemon eucalyptus, geranium, peppermint, or citronella,” Dr. Hooper says.

“Products made of any of these ingredients have been deemed safe to use as insect repellents,” she says. “However, they have a shorter period of protection against insect bites and need to be reapplied more often.”

Who We Are

Erica Reagle is a freelance writer focusing on interior design and the home. To write this story, she spent several hours researching the best bug sprays and evaluated features like scent and hours of protection. She also gathered insights from Dr. Deirdre Hooper, MD, FAAD, a board-certified dermatologist at Audubon Dermatology, and Tracey Brooks, senior director of brand and communications at Wondercide.