What’s the best DEET-free mosquito repellent?
From my own experience dealing with swarms of mosquitoes during picnics, I’ll share what I’ve learned to help you pick top DEET-free options and enjoy outdoor fun safely.
Spending time outside is wonderful, but mosquitoes can ruin the fun. I remember a time when a picnic was quickly ended by a swarm of mosquitoes. Finding the right repellent is key to enjoying the outdoors.
Many DEET-free options work well. These sprays keep bugs away. They are safe for you.
This guide will help you choose the best DEET-free mosquito repellent. I’ll share what I’ve learned, so you can have a great time outside.
List of Top 10 DEET-Free Mosquito Repellent
| Image | Title | Best For | Price |
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Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent, Mosquito Repellent, Pump Spray, 4 Ounce, (Pack of 2) |
This plant-based insect repellent is perfect for families who love backyard fun and outdoor adventures without DEET. It’s ideal for anyone who wants long-lasting protection from mosquitoes with a refreshing scent and no sticky feel. |
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OFF! Clean Feel Insect Repellent Aerosol with 20% Picaridin, Bug Spray with Long Lasting Protection from Mosquitoes, Feels Good on Skin, 5 oz |
This bug spray is perfect for outdoor lovers who want long-lasting protection from mosquitoes, ticks, and biting flies without any stickiness. It dries quickly and feels great on the skin, making it a top choice for those on family hikes or camping trips. |
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Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito & Tick Bug Repellent Spray, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus for Skin + Outdoor Gear, DEET-Free, 4 Ounce Pump, 2-Pack |
This spray is perfect for families and adults who love outdoor fun and want safe, natural protection from bugs. It’s great for kids too, making it easy to hike, camp, or play without worries. |
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Boogie Insect Repellent Lotion, Keep Mosquitoes, Ticks and Flies Off, DEET Alternative Repellent, Up to 14-Hour Protection, Fragrance-Free, Odorless Lotion, 6 Ounce |
Boogie Insect Repellent Lotion is perfect for families who want long-lasting protection against mosquitoes, ticks, and flies without using DEET. It’s ideal for pregnant and breastfeeding women, plus kids and adults who enjoy the outdoors. |
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Deet-Free Insect & Mosquito Repellent Pack of 2 (4 oz) – Nice Smelling Insect Repellent with Lemongrass Oil Safe for Pets and Kids – Bug Spray Against Mosquitoes, Gnats, Black Flies, and No-See-ums |
This bug spray is perfect for families who want to enjoy outdoor fun with their kids and pets without worrying about harsh chemicals. It’s also great for hikers, campers, and travelers who need a safe, effective, and easy-to-carry way to keep bugs away. |
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Quantum Buzz Away Extreme Tick & Mosquito Repellent – Powerful DEET Free Peppermint & Citronella Oil Outdoor Bug Spray Repels Bugs Off Your Skin, Kids Safe Insect Repellent – 4 fl oz |
This bug spray is perfect for families who love outdoor fun like camping, beach trips, or backyard play. It’s also great for parents wanting a safe, natural way to keep mosquitoes and ticks away from kids during daily adventures. |
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Sawyer Products SP564 Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin, Lotion, 4-Ounce |
This bug repellent lotion works great for families who enjoy outdoor time like camping, hiking, fishing, or just playing in the park. It stays on for up to 12 hours to protect you from mosquitoes, ticks, and more, so everyone can have fun without bites. |
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California Baby Natural Bug Repellent Spray | Citronella Bug Spray | DEET-Free | Repels Mosquitoes + Bugs | Allergy Friendly | Great Smell | Baby & Adult Insect Repellent Spray | 59 mL / 2 oz. |
This California Baby Bug Repellent Spray is perfect for families with babies 6 months or older who need a safe, natural way to keep mosquitoes and bugs away. It’s also ideal for adults and kids with allergies who enjoy outdoor fun without worries. |
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Babyganics Insect Spray, 2oz, 1 pack, Made with Plant and Essential Oils, Packaging May Vary |
This spray is perfect for parents of young kids who need a safe, natural way to keep mosquitoes away from babies. It works with plant oils like citronella and has no bad chemicals, so little ones stay protected without harm. |
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BUGGINS Original – Insect Repellent – Gnats & Mosquitoes, DEET Free, Non-Greasy – 4 oz Pump Spray Bottle – 2 Pack |
This BUGGINS repellent is perfect for families with kids who want a safe, natural way to enjoy outdoor time without bugs. It’s also ideal for adults who prefer a non-greasy, pleasant-scented spray that repels gnats and mosquitoes easily and effectively. |
Detailed Reviews
Find the best DEET-free mosquito repellent with our top picks, chosen through expert study and real user reviews for top performance. Each one gets a full check on its features, safety, and value to keep you protected outdoors. Dive in to pick the right spray for your family and enjoy bug-free adventures.
1. Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent, Mosquito Repellent, Pump Spray, 4 Ounce, (Pack of 2)
Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent is a DEET-free spray that keeps bugs away. It uses oil of lemon eucalyptus for safe outdoor fun. This 4 ounce pump spray comes in a pack of 2, ready for your adventures.
Enjoy protection for up to 6 hours against mosquitoes. It fights bugs that carry Zika, West Nile, Dengue, and Chikungunya viruses. The refreshing scent smells great, not like other bug sprays.
Stay cool and bug-free without sticky skin. Grab this repellent today and stay safe outdoors.
| Pros | Cons |
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Perfect For:
This plant-based insect repellent is perfect for families who love backyard fun and outdoor adventures without DEET. It’s ideal for anyone who wants long-lasting protection from mosquitoes with a refreshing scent and no sticky feel.
Ready to Purchase?
2. OFF! Clean Feel Insect Repellent Aerosol with 20% Picaridin, Bug Spray with Long Lasting Protection from Mosquitoes, Feels Good on Skin, 5 oz
This bug spray gives you long-lasting protection from bugs for up to 8 hours. It is fragrance free and DEET free, and it dries quickly without feeling sticky.
The aerosol is simple to use. It keeps away mosquitoes, ticks, and biting flies when used as instructed. Spread it evenly on your skin to feel good and get the best protection.
| Pros | Cons |
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Perfect For:
This bug spray is perfect for outdoor lovers who want long-lasting protection from mosquitoes, ticks, and biting flies without any stickiness. It dries quickly and feels great on the skin, making it a top choice for those on family hikes or camping trips.
Ready to Purchase?
3. Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito & Tick Bug Repellent Spray, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus for Skin + Outdoor Gear, DEET-Free, 4 Ounce Pump, 2-Pack
Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito & Tick Bug Repellent Spray uses oil of lemon eucalyptus to keep bugs off your skin and gear. It hides your scent so mosquitoes and ticks can’t find you.
This natural formula is EPA-approved and works well for kids and adults. It has no synthetic stuff like dyes or harsh chemicals. Murphy’s Naturals helps you enjoy the outdoors without worry.
| Pros | Cons |
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Perfect For:
This spray is perfect for families and adults who love outdoor fun and want safe, natural protection from bugs. It’s great for kids too, making it easy to hike, camp, or play without worries.
Ready to Purchase?
4. Boogie Insect Repellent Lotion, Keep Mosquitoes, Ticks and Flies Off, DEET Alternative Repellent, Up to 14-Hour Protection, Fragrance-Free, Odorless Lotion, 6 Ounce
Boogie Insect Repellent Lotion keeps mosquitoes, ticks, and flies away for up to 14 hours with one simple use. It works for the whole family without any bad smell or grease.
This lotion uses 20% Picaridin, a safe choice that the CDC recommends for repellent. It is a great DEET alternative that repels bugs just as well, even for pregnant or breastfeeding women.
Get ready for outdoor fun with easy protection. Pick up this soothing lotion today. Enjoy peace of mind outside.
| Pros | Cons |
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Perfect For:
Boogie Insect Repellent Lotion is perfect for families who want long-lasting protection against mosquitoes, ticks, and flies without using DEET. It’s ideal for pregnant and breastfeeding women, plus kids and adults who enjoy the outdoors.
Ready to Purchase?
5. Deet-Free Insect & Mosquito Repellent Pack of 2 (4 oz) – Nice Smelling Insect Repellent with Lemongrass Oil Safe for Pets and Kids – Bug Spray Against Mosquitoes, Gnats, Black Flies, and No-See-ums
Medella is a DEET FREE bug spray. It uses lemongrass oil to keep away mosquitoes and gnats. This spray is safe for pets and kids too.
Studies show it works well. It repels 90% of bugs for up to 5 hours.
You can take it anywhere. It comes in handy sizes like 4 oz. The spray fits in bags easily.
| Pros | Cons |
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Perfect For:
This bug spray is perfect for families who want to enjoy outdoor fun with their kids and pets without worrying about harsh chemicals. It’s also great for hikers, campers, and travelers who need a safe, effective, and easy-to-carry way to keep bugs away.
Ready to Purchase?
6. Quantum Buzz Away Extreme Tick & Mosquito Repellent – Powerful DEET Free Peppermint & Citronella Oil Outdoor Bug Spray Repels Bugs Off Your Skin, Kids Safe Insect Repellent – 4 fl oz
Quantum Buzz Away keeps mosquitoes and ticks away for hours. Enjoy the park, beach, or backyard without bug bites.
It uses natural oils like peppermint and citronella. This plant-based spray is non-greasy on your skin. Kids can use it safely too.
Go DEET-free with this trustworthy repellent. It protects your family from bugs all year long.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
This bug spray is perfect for families who love outdoor fun like camping, beach trips, or backyard play. It’s also great for parents wanting a safe, natural way to keep mosquitoes and ticks away from kids during daily adventures.
Ready to Purchase?
7. Sawyer Products SP564 Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin, Lotion, 4-Ounce
Sawyer Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin fights off bugs for up to 12 hours. This lotion is non-greasy and odorless, so it feels great on your skin.
It works well on clothes and gear too. The whole family can use it safely. Enjoy outdoor trips without bug worries.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
This bug repellent lotion works great for families who enjoy outdoor time like camping, hiking, fishing, or just playing in the park. It stays on for up to 12 hours to protect you from mosquitoes, ticks, and more, so everyone can have fun without bites.
Ready to Purchase?
8. California Baby Natural Bug Repellent Spray | Citronella Bug Spray | DEET-Free | Repels Mosquitoes + Bugs | Allergy Friendly | Great Smell | Baby & Adult Insect Repellent Spray | 59 mL / 2 oz.
California Baby Natural Bug Repellent Spray keeps mosquitoes and bugs away without DEET. It uses citronella and lemongrass oils that smell great to people. Reapply every 30 minutes for best results.
This DEET-free formula is safe for babies 6 months and older. It works on skin from head to toe without harsh items.
California Baby makes clean sprays since 1995. They test for allergies to avoid common issues. The spray comes in a 59 mL bottle for easy use.
| Pros | Cons |
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Perfect For:
This California Baby Bug Repellent Spray is perfect for families with babies 6 months or older who need a safe, natural way to keep mosquitoes and bugs away. It’s also ideal for adults and kids with allergies who enjoy outdoor fun without worries.
Ready to Purchase?
9. Babyganics Insect Spray, 2oz, 1 pack, Made with Plant and Essential Oils, Packaging May Vary
Babyganics Insect Spray is a safe and natural way to protect against bugs. It uses plant and essential oils like citronella, peppermint, rosemary, lemongrass, and geranium to keep mosquitoes at bay. This small 2oz bottle fits easily in your pocket or bag for on-the-go use.
Choose this spray because it’s free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and dyes. Plus, it’s not tested on animals, making it a kind choice for your skin. Grab a pack today and stay bite-free!
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
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Perfect For:
This spray is perfect for parents of young kids who need a safe, natural way to keep mosquitoes away from babies. It works with plant oils like citronella and has no bad chemicals, so little ones stay protected without harm.
Ready to Purchase?
10. BUGGINS Original – Insect Repellent – Gnats & Mosquitoes, DEET Free, Non-Greasy – 4 oz Pump Spray Bottle – 2 Pack
BUGGINS Original is a DEET-free insect repellent that keeps gnats and mosquitoes away for up to an hour. This 2-pack of 4 oz pumps is perfect for families, kids, and anyone wanting effective protection without harsh chemicals.
Its water-based formula blends essential oils into a non-sticky spray that works fast. The vanilla mint rose scent smells great instead of chemical odors. Reapply as needed for all-day comfort.
Bugg Products brings nearly 30 years of know-how in creating safe repellents. This spray stays gentle on skin, fabrics, and plastics. Enjoy outdoor fun free from bug bites.
| Pros | Cons |
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Perfect For:
This BUGGINS repellent is perfect for families with kids who want a safe, natural way to enjoy outdoor time without bugs. It’s also ideal for adults who prefer a non-greasy, pleasant-scented spray that repels gnats and mosquitoes easily and effectively.
Ready to Purchase?
Buying Guide
The sun is bright. The bugs bite fast.
I once camped near a lake. I tried a spray that smelled like citrus. It kept the bites away all night.
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Active ingredient: Look for picaridin or lemon eucalyptus oil. These work well without DEET. They are safe for most skin types.
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Protection time: Choose a product that lasts 6‑8 hours or more. Longer time means fewer re‑applications.
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Skin feel: Pick a spray that dries clear and non‑sticky. It should not leave a greasy film.
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Scent: A light, fresh scent is best. Strong smells can be off‑putting for kids and pets.
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Safety for kids & pets: Make sure the label says safe for children and pet‑friendly. Avoid harsh chemicals.
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Application type: Sprays, lotions, and wipes each have pros. Sprays cover large areas fast. Lotions stay on skin longer.
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EPA approval: Products approved by the EPA have been tested for safety and effectiveness.
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Water resistance: If you will be near water, choose a water‑resistant formula. It stays active after a splash.
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Price: Good products range from $5‑$15 for a small bottle. Compare cost per ounce.
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Packaging size: Small bottles fit in a pocket. Larger bottles are good for families.
Pick the repellent that fits your day out. Stay safe and enjoy the outdoors.