10 Best Insect Repellents For Homes 2025 in the United States

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.

The Cutter Backyard Bug Control Outdoor Fogger is a spray-type insect repellent designed to quickly kill mosquitoes and other flying insects on contact. It is ideal for outdoor spaces like backyards, decks, patios, and picnic areas, making it a good choice for people wanting to enjoy their outdoor areas without bugs. Each can covers about 1,200 cubic feet, which should be enough for typical small to medium outdoor spaces. The product requires reapplication as needed but limits use to once per day.

Cutter products usually include effective insecticides, and the spray form is easy to use, allowing targeted application. However, it mainly focuses on flying insects and listed ants, excluding tougher ant species like carpenter or fire ants. Users should follow label instructions carefully to avoid risks.

With a strong customer rating of 4.5 out of 5 and a high ranking among foggers, this product has good user approval. This fogger is suitable for those looking for a convenient, fast-acting solution to reduce flying insects outdoors but may not be the best choice for indoor use or dealing with all insect types.

The Cutter Essentials Bug Control Spray Concentrate is designed to kill mosquitoes and other insects on contact, making it an effective choice for immediate insect control. Its standout feature is the large coverage area, capable of treating up to 5,000 square feet, which is ideal for sizable outdoor spaces. Additionally, the QuickFlip technology simplifies the spraying process, ensuring ease of use even for larger areas.

This product is particularly convenient for households with children and pets, as it is safe to use around them when used and stored properly. This can be a significant peace of mind for families looking to protect their loved ones from insects without compromising safety. It's important to note that this spray concentrate, like many others, needs to be applied more than once to maintain its effectiveness over time, especially in areas with heavy insect activity.

Another consideration is its environmental impact, as with most chemical insecticides, it may not be the most eco-friendly option available. If you're looking for a solution with a strong balance of coverage, ease of use, and family safety, this product is worth considering. However, if your priorities strongly lean towards long-term environmental sustainability, you might want to explore additional options.