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10 Best Insect Repellents For Homes 2025 in the United States

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Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Sawyer Products SP565 Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin, 1-Quart Lotion Pump Dispenser,White

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,370
Active Ingredients
Duration of Effectiveness
Safety and Environmental Impact

Most important from
47455 reviews

Active Ingredients
This is the only alternative I've found to DEET that actually seems to work, and unlike DEET, it doesn't melt plastic and ruin your gear.
Duration of Effectiveness
This stuff is awesome. It lasts pretty much all day, and I'm still using the same quart after three years.
Safety and Environmental Impact
No smell, no rashes, no side effects. In addition, no mosquitoes and no ticks.
Ease of Use
An RN friend recommended this product for protection against mosquitoes. Living in Tennessee you get lots of bugs! I’ve used this for over 3 years now and love the results.

The Sawyer Products SP565 Premium Insect Repellent uses 20% Picaridin, which is known for its effectiveness in repelling a variety of pests, including mosquitoes, ticks, flies, gnats, and chiggers. This makes it a versatile choice for both indoor and outdoor use. One of its main strengths is its long-lasting protection—up to 14 hours for mosquitoes and ticks, and up to 8 hours for flies, gnats, and chiggers. This duration is quite impressive and should cover most daily activities without needing frequent reapplication.

The lotion comes in a 1-quart pump dispenser, making it easy to use and ideal for families or multiple users over an extended period. It's also non-greasy, fragrance-free, and odorless, which makes it comfortable to wear and suitable for those sensitive to scents. Additionally, it dries quickly and won't damage plastics or synthetic coatings, so you can safely apply it to clothing and accessories.

One potential drawback is that while it is highly effective, users must ensure they cover all exposed skin thoroughly, as missed spots may still leave them vulnerable to bites. Furthermore, since it's a topical lotion, some users might find it less convenient than sprays for quick and even application. The product is safe for the whole family, which is a significant plus. For those seeking comprehensive protection, it can be paired with Sawyer's Permethrin spray for clothing and gear. This repellent is a strong contender for those in need of a reliable, long-lasting insect repellent suitable for various outdoor activities and daily home use.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,370
Active Ingredients
Duration of Effectiveness
Safety and Environmental Impact

Most important from
47455 reviews

Active Ingredients
This is the only alternative I've found to DEET that actually seems to work, and unlike DEET, it doesn't melt plastic and ruin your gear.
Duration of Effectiveness
This stuff is awesome. It lasts pretty much all day, and I'm still using the same quart after three years.
Safety and Environmental Impact
No smell, no rashes, no side effects. In addition, no mosquitoes and no ticks.
Ease of Use
An RN friend recommended this product for protection against mosquitoes. Living in Tennessee you get lots of bugs! I’ve used this for over 3 years now and love the results.
#2

Sawyer Products SP5442 Picaridin Insect Repellent, 4 Fl Oz (Pack of 2) - Packaging May Vary

Rating
9.6
Coverage Area
Duration of Effectiveness
Ease of Use

Most important from
47455 reviews

Coverage Area
Highly effective even in mosquito-heavy areas like central Florida; goes on nicely without being greasy or sticky.
Duration of Effectiveness
The only mosquito repellent that works after trying numerous other methods, including natural and homemade options.
Ease of Use
The spray doesn't smell bad and is pleasant to use, making it a preferred choice over other mosquito sprays.

The Sawyer Products SP5442 Picaridin Insect Repellent is an effective, user-friendly solution for keeping various pests at bay. This pack includes two 4 Fl Oz aerosol sprays, which are non-greasy, fragrance-free, and quick-drying, making them comfortable to use on skin and safe for application on a wide range of materials like clothing, backpacks, and even fishing lines.

The active ingredient, Picaridin (20%), is known for being highly effective against mosquitoes, ticks, flies, gnats, and chiggers. It offers long-lasting protection, up to 12 hours for mosquitoes and ticks, and 8 hours for flies and gnats, which makes it suitable for various outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and backyard events.

The product is also top-rated by WireCutter/New York Times, indicating its reliability and effectiveness. For those seeking a potent, easy-to-apply insect repellent for family use, this product is a solid choice.

Rating
9.6
Coverage Area
Duration of Effectiveness
Ease of Use

Most important from
47455 reviews

Coverage Area
Highly effective even in mosquito-heavy areas like central Florida; goes on nicely without being greasy or sticky.
Duration of Effectiveness
The only mosquito repellent that works after trying numerous other methods, including natural and homemade options.
Ease of Use
The spray doesn't smell bad and is pleasant to use, making it a preferred choice over other mosquito sprays.
#3

Sawyer Products SP5432 Picaridin Insect Repellent Spray, 20%, Pump, 3-Ounce, (Pack of 2) (Packaging may vary)

Rating
9.4
Active Ingredients
Coverage Area
Duration of Effectiveness

Most important from
47455 reviews

Active Ingredients
Picaridin is a non-toxic bug repellent that wards off bloodsuckers without leaving your skin oily.
Coverage Area
Used in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Bangkok without seeing any mosquitoes or getting any bites.
Duration of Effectiveness
I used this in the deep woods and came out unscathed.

The Sawyer Products SP5432 Picaridin Insect Repellent Spray is a versatile and effective option for home use and outdoor activities. Its active ingredient, 20% Picaridin, is known for being more effective than DEET against biting flies and also repels a broad range of pests, including mosquitoes, ticks, flies, and gnats. This makes it suitable for preventing diseases such as Lyme disease, West Nile, Dengue, and Zika viruses.

The spray is long-lasting, offering up to 12 hours of protection against mosquitoes and ticks, and up to 8 hours against flies and gnats, which minimizes the need for frequent reapplication. Additionally, it is non-greasy, fragrance-free, and dries quickly, making it comfortable to wear and safe for use on various materials like clothing and gear without causing damage. This product is also family-friendly, making it a reliable choice for various outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and backyard events.

With a high customer rating (4.6 out of 5 stars) and being top-rated by WireCutter/New York Times, it is well-regarded for its effectiveness. The product comes in a 3-ounce pump spray bottle, which might be small for extended use or large families. It is also worth noting that the packaging may vary, which might be a minor inconvenience for some users. This insect repellent spray offers robust protection and ease of use, making it a practical choice for those seeking a reliable and safe option to keep pests at bay.

Rating
9.4
Active Ingredients
Coverage Area
Duration of Effectiveness

Most important from
47455 reviews

Active Ingredients
Picaridin is a non-toxic bug repellent that wards off bloodsuckers without leaving your skin oily.
Coverage Area
Used in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Bangkok without seeing any mosquitoes or getting any bites.
Duration of Effectiveness
I used this in the deep woods and came out unscathed.

Buying Guide for the Best Insect Repellents For Homes

Choosing the right insect repellent for your home is crucial to ensure a comfortable and pest-free living environment. The right product can help you effectively manage and prevent insect infestations, keeping your home safe and healthy. When selecting an insect repellent, consider the type of insects you are dealing with, the area you need to cover, and any specific needs or preferences you might have, such as natural ingredients or ease of use. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing an insect repellent for your home.
Type of Insect RepellentInsect repellents come in various forms, including sprays, traps, plug-ins, and natural solutions. Sprays are versatile and can be used on surfaces and in the air, making them suitable for immediate action. Traps are effective for continuous control and monitoring of insect populations. Plug-ins are convenient for long-term use and can cover larger areas. Natural solutions, such as essential oil-based repellents, are ideal for those who prefer chemical-free options. Choose the type that best fits your needs based on the severity of the infestation and your personal preferences.
Active IngredientsThe active ingredients in insect repellents determine their effectiveness and safety. Common chemical ingredients include DEET, permethrin, and pyrethroids, which are highly effective against a wide range of insects. Natural ingredients like citronella, eucalyptus oil, and neem oil are safer for use around children and pets but may require more frequent application. Consider the type of insects you are targeting and any potential health concerns when selecting a repellent with the appropriate active ingredients.
Coverage AreaThe coverage area of an insect repellent indicates how much space it can effectively protect. Smaller areas, such as individual rooms, may only require a single spray or plug-in device, while larger spaces like entire homes or outdoor areas might need multiple units or a more powerful solution. Assess the size of the area you need to protect and choose a product that can cover that space adequately to ensure comprehensive protection.
Duration of EffectivenessThe duration of effectiveness refers to how long the insect repellent remains active after application. Some products offer short-term protection, lasting only a few hours, while others provide long-term control, lasting several weeks or even months. If you need immediate, short-term relief, a quick-acting spray might be suitable. For ongoing protection, consider products with longer-lasting effects, such as plug-ins or traps. Match the duration of effectiveness to your specific needs and the level of infestation.
Safety and Environmental ImpactSafety and environmental impact are important considerations, especially if you have children, pets, or are concerned about the environment. Chemical repellents can be highly effective but may pose health risks if not used properly. Natural and eco-friendly options are generally safer but may require more frequent application. Evaluate the safety information and environmental impact of each product, and choose one that aligns with your values and household needs.
Ease of UseEase of use is an important factor to consider, as it affects how convenient and practical the insect repellent is for regular use. Sprays and plug-ins are typically easy to use and require minimal effort. Traps may need occasional maintenance, such as emptying and resetting. Natural solutions might involve more frequent application. Consider your lifestyle and how much time and effort you are willing to invest in using the product when making your choice.

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