6 / 8
Best Plant-Based Mosquito Repellent
Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Natural Mosquito Repellent
Sometimes mosquito repellents can feel sticky on the skin and have a pungent smell. That’s not the case with Repel’s Natural Mosquito Repellent. This option gets our pick for the best plant-based mosquito repellent as it provides up to six hours of protection and has a refreshing lemon eucalyptus scent. Plus, the Deet-free formula won’t leave that greasy feeling on your skin. The four-ounce bottle is easy to throw in your bag or keep in your car for when the pesky pests strike.
Pros
- Made with oil of lemon eucalyptus, a planted-based ingredient
- Doesn’t make skin feel greasy
- Deet-free formula to lower irritation risk
- Affordable
Cons
- Some people might not like the lemon eucalyptus scent
7 / 8
Best Mosquito Repellent for Clothing and Gear
Sawyer Premium Permethrin Insect Repellent
If you’re headed out to the woods on an overnight hiking or camping trip, you’ll want to keep mosquitoes and other nasty insects away from your gear, and that’s where Sawyer’s insect repellent comes in handy. Just spray this repellent on your clothing, sleeping gear and tent—don’t worry, the 24-ounce bottle is big enough to cover it all.
Not only will it keep mosquito bites at bay, but it also protects against other insects such as ticks, spiders and chiggers. The permethrin spray bonds to fabric fibers for up to six weeks or through six washings, and won’t stain or damage fabrics, plastics or outdoor gear. Plus, once it dries, it has no odor.
Pros
- Doesn’t damage fabrics
- Odorless once dry
- Lasts for up to six weeks
- Comes in a large 24-ounce bottle
Cons
- Shouldn’t be sprayed on skin
8 / 8
Best Mosquito Repellent for Babies
Babyganics Natural Deet-Free Insect Repellent
Don’t forget to protect the youngest members of the family from mosquitoes! Babyganics’ insect repellent is naturally Deet-free and made with plant and essential oils, including citronella, peppermint, rosemary, lemongrass and geranium. It’s not only safe for babies six months and older, but the whole family can use it too. Additionally, it’s free of parabens, sulfates, phthalates, synthetic fragrances and dyes.
Pros
- Safe for babies six months and older
- No harsh chemicals
- Naturally Deet-free
- Works on adults
Cons
- Not scent-free
What to Consider When Buying Mosquito Repellent
When looking for the best mosquito repellent for your needs, consider how you’ll use it. Sprays and lotions are practical if you’ll be moving about. However, some formulas have strong scents and can leave your skin feeling sticky or greasy. Wipes are handy if you’re on the go, and mosquito repellent devices are ideal for sitting outside, as they create a barrier-like, mosquito-free zone.
While some mosquito repellents are made with chemicals that are safe on skin, others use plant-based ingredients. If you have very young children, always check with a doctor before applying any mosquito repellent to their skin.
How We Found the Mosquito Repellents
As shopping experts, our only job is to help you find a winning product. We start with the research and reporting basics—what products are made of, what they look like and how much they cost—to ensure that we’re only recommending the buys that are worth your time and money. Then, we research the features that speak to the product’s quality, taking advice from industry insiders and subject-matter experts on what makes a product a smart value (or worthy of a splurge). Finally, we do the work of combing through user reviews to see how real people interact with the product, and if it stands up to the test.
FAQ
What attracts mosquitoes?
Mosquitoes use their receptors to find a host and are attracted to the carbon dioxide you emit. They’re also attracted to sweat, which explains why mosquitoes may flock to you when it’s warm outside or after you finish exercising. Fragrances, such as scented lotions and perfumes, are also known attractants for mosquitoes.
Can mosquitoes bite through clothes?
While mosquitoes can bite through clothing, they are far more likely to attack exposed skin. Additionally, some colors (like red and orange) are known to help prevent mosquito bites.
