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Looking for the best non toxic bug sprays and natural bug repellents? Get ready to bid farewell to those annoying bugs and welcome a world of fragrant bug-free bliss with our list, below.
Also, don’t forget to check our latest guide of the best non-toxic sunscreen brands as well!
The Best Non Toxic Bug Sprays for Natural Bug Protection.
Ah, summertime—the season of sunny days, ice cream cones, and persistent buzzing sounds.
It’s safe to say that bugs have a knack for finding their way into our favorite outdoor activities, whether it’s hiking, camping, picnicking, or simply enjoying a sunset stroll. Being decorated with bug bites and constantly fighting super-annoying itch is, by all means, frustrating.
That’s exactly why choosing the right non toxic mosquito spray is of utmost importance. With a swift spritz here or a lotion up there, you protect yourself and your loved ones from those uninvited guests.
However, not all bug-repellant sprays are created equal.
Seriously, why settle for toxic-chemical warfare when you can go au naturel against those buzzing bugs?
The best natural bug-repellent sprays are here to save the day, offering a safer and more eco-friendly alternative to the infamous DEET. The latter is a powerful toxic chemical that may cause skin irritations, allergic reactions, or even pose risks if used improperly.
On top of that, traditional insecticides, including DEET, can have harmful effects on the environment, particularly aquatic life. Plus, while DEET can have an overpowering smell that announces your presence from a mile away, natural non toxic bug sprays offer a delightful alternative. With scents like citronella, lemon eucalyptus, and lavender, you can repel bugs while smelling fresh!
Mosquitoes and their buzzing symphony can turn a peaceful night into an itchy nightmare, so have a look at our favorite non toxic mosquito spray options, below.
What is the safest bug repellent?
If you’re looking for bug-fighting superpowers without worry, the safest bug repellent is the one that harnesses the power of nature! Our top choices are Kinfield Golden Hour, EiR Stay Away Spray and Ranger Ready’s Picaridin 20%. These brands use powerful natural bug repellents like Citronella Oil, Lemongrass Oil, Clove Oil, Soybean Oil, Cedar Essential Oil, Lemongrass Essential Oil and Picardin!
What ingredients to avoid in bug spray?
Unlike the best natural bug repellent options, regular bug sprays are loaded with toxic chemicals!
Here are just a few to avoid:
DEET: While effective at repelling bugs, DEET can cause skin irritation and leave you feeling greasy. Duke University pharmacologist Mohamed Abou-Donia, in studies on rats, found that frequent and prolonged DEET exposure led to diffuse brain cell death and behavioral changes, and concluded that humans should stay away from products containing it. So it’s no surprise that 100% DEET products are now being withdrawn throughout the European market and will no longer be available. So, let’s skip the DEET and opt for alternative ingredients.
Parabens, Sulfates, and Phthalates: These sneaky substances can disrupt your body’s natural balance and have been linked to potential health concerns. Let’s keep them out of our bug spray formula, so you can have peace of mind while battling bugs.
Ozone-Depleting Substances: We want to protect ourselves from bugs, but not at the expense of our planet. Avoid bug sprays that contain chemicals harmful to the ozone layer, as they can contribute to environmental damage.
Artificial Fragrances and Dyes: Why settle for synthetic scents and colors when we can embrace the power of natural ingredients? Opt for non toxic mosquito sprays that use essential oils for a delightful aroma that not only keeps bugs away but also pleases your senses.
What is the best natural insect repellent?
Interesting in crafting your own homemade non toxic bug spray? The best natural insect-repellent oils are Lemon Eucalyptus Oil, Citronella, Peppermint Oil, Lavender Oil, Neem Oil, and Soybean Oil. These organic ingredients have been used for centuries in traditional practices to repel mosquitoes, ticks, and other pests.
Other fun options are planting mosquito repelling plants around your yard such as lavender, eucalyptus, marigold, catnip, basil, citronella, lemon balm and rosemary. I personally plant a lot of lavender near our doors and windows (where the sun is super strong in the summer) and it works great.
How often should I reapply natural bug spray?
First of all, always read and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer of the bug spray you are using. If you’re engaged in activities that cause sweating, swimming, or excessive physical activity, you may need to reapply more frequently. Sweating can diminish the effectiveness of bug spray, so it’s important to refresh the application as needed. Keep in mind that high humidity, rain, or heavy perspiration can decrease the longevity of bug repellents.
This post is about the best non toxic and natural bug sprays.
Best Natural And Non Toxic Bug Sprays of 2023.
1. Kinfield Golden Hour
The Kinfield non toxic bug spray carries a strain of Indonesian citronella! Through rigorous independent trials, the brand discovered that this unique strain has superpowers when it comes to deterring mosquitoes.
Not only does this natural bug repellent work wonders, but it also smells absolutely divine. Think refreshing notes of citrus and the tantalizing aroma of vanilla.
In a study review from 2011, they found that the combination of vanilla and citronella extends your protection time from a mere three hours (using citronella alone) to a whopping six hours. That’s double the bug-fighting goodness!
Price: From $22+
Ingredients: Citronella oil, lemongrass oil, clove oil, lauric acid, vanillin
Notable Features: Natural ingredients, extended protection, vegan, cruelty-free
Location/Shipping: USA
Best Non Toxic Bug Spray from Kinfield:
2. EiR NYC stay away spray
Prepare to conquer the bug-infested wilderness with the power of soybean oil, the secret superhero ingredient for your skin!
In fact, In a 2002 study, it was revealed that soybean oil-based repellents have the incredible ability to deter mosquito bites for up to an hour and a half!
This non toxic bug spray was the only non-DEET repellent tested that could even hold a candle to the mighty DEET level of protection.
What’s more, the Stay Away Spray is armed with an army of sweet-smelling essential oils like clove, cedar, and lemongrass.
Price: $19
Ingredients: Soybean oil, clove essential oil, cedar essential oil, lemongrass essential oil
Notable Features: Vegan, natural ingredients
Location/Shipping: USA, ships worldwide
3. Ranger Ready
Ranger Ready’s Picaridin 20% is the safe and effective alternative to DEET that protects you for up to 12 hours against ticks, mosquitos, and biting insects.
Plus, it offers 8-hour protection from gnats, flies, fleas, chiggers, and no-see-ums!
Also, this non-toxic insect repellent is safe to use for children (over 1 year), adults, and during pregnancy! Last but not least, the bottle is 100% Recyclable and the formula is made in the USA.
Price: From $10+
Ingredients: 20% picaridin, water, alcohol, propylene glycol, fragrance
Notable Features: Natural ingredients, made in the USA, recyclable packaging
Location/Shipping: USA
4. Murphy’s Naturals
Murphy’s natural bug spray has the most refreshing lemon eucalyptus scent. This mighty defender, armed with the CDC’s stamp of approval, stands tall as an ultimate DEET alternative.
Say goodbye to those pesky mosquitoes, including the ones that dare to carry the likes of Zika Virus, West Nile Virus, Dengue Virus, and Chikungunya Virus.
This non toxic mosquito spray lasts a whopping 6 hours, ensuring you can enjoy your adventures bite-free.
Price: From $5.99+
Ingredients: Oil of lemon eucalyptus 30%, distilled water, and corn ethanol 70%
Notable Features: CDC-recommended ingredients, lasts up to 8 hours, gives back, 1% For The Planet
Location/Shipping: USA, ships internationally
5. Meow Meow Tweet Insect Repellent
Loaded with plant-based ingredients, Meow Meow Tweet’s best natural bug repellent takes on even the most persistent bugs.
The herbaceous essential oils join forces with astringent skin toners, crafting a body mist that’s all-natural and skin-safe.
Plus, the non toxic bug spray is packed in a metal bottle that can be refilled, repurposed, or recycled!
For best results, spray directly onto skin, hair, and clothes and apply as if it were sunscreen. It’s that simple!
Price: $25
Ingredients: Sugar cane, alcohol, witch hazel distillate, lavender hydrosol, apple cider vinegar
Notable Features: Refillable packaging, natural ingredients, lemongrass geranium scent
Location/Shipping: USA
6. Badger Balm Bug Spray
Badger’s best non toxic mosquito spray is our favorite citronella-based and DEET-free pick.
Gluten-free, cruelty-free, and vegan, the formula is loaded with repels with safe and effective citronella, rosemary, and lemongrass.
What’s more, this non toxic insect repellent comes in a lightweight, easy-to-carry, and recyclable aluminum bottle.
The cherry on top? It’s made in the brand’s solar-powered facility in the USA by a women-owned and run family business. Use it indoors & outdoors, or even when you go hiking or camping.
Price: From $9.99
Ingredients: Organic soybean oil, organic castor oil, organic citronella oil, organic cedar oil
Notable Features: Natural ingredients, recyclable packaging, Certified Organic, laboratory tested to repel mosquitoes, 100% DEET free, gluten free
Location/Shipping: USA, ships internationally
7. Repel Plant Based Lemon Eucalyptus
This DEET-free non toxic bug spray provides you with protection during adventures in the backyard and on the go for up to 6 hours.
Formulated with oil of lemon eucalyptus to provide protection without leaving your skin feeling sticky or greasy.
And if you absolutely hate the unusual bug spray smell, this spray promises to leave behind the coolest and most refreshing scent possible.
Price: From $10.17+
Ingredients: Oil of lemon eucalyptus, 65% p-menthane-3,8-diol
Notable Features: Ingredients recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, safe for 3 yrs old+ children
Location/Shipping: USA, ships internationally
8. Quantum Health Buzz Away
For over 35 years, Quantum Health has been creating fantastic personal care products, including some of the best natural bug repellent formulas.
Buzz Away Extreme, the DEET-free bug spray is made from the magic of botanical essential oils, ensuring a bug-free adventure for your whole family.
This non toxic mosquito spray has been independently tested and proven to be an effective, DEET-free choice for keeping those annoying mosquitoes and ticks at bay.
For best results, apply to the skin every 3.5 hours or more often as needed.
Price: From $6.99+
Ingredients: Citronella oil, geranium oil, lemongrass oil, cedarwood oil
Notable Features: Natural ingredients, clinically tested, DEET-free
Location/Shipping: USA, ships internationally
9. Babyganics Natural Insect Repellent
Babyganics Natural Insect Repellent, the superhero of bug-busting without the harsh stuff!
Packed with a powerful blend of plant and essential oils, this DEET-free repellent is here to save the day, one bug at a time.
This non toxic bug spray is formulated without parabens, sulfates, phthalates, artificial fragrances, or dyes.
The secret behind Babyganics’ bug-fighting power lies in its 100% natural essential oils.
Citronella, Peppermint, Rosemary, Lemongrass, and Geranium team up to create a pungent force that mosquitoes find simply unbearable.
Price: From $10.99+
Ingredients: Rosemary oil 1.5%, citronella oil 0.95%, geranium oil 0.75%, cedarwood oil 0.70%, peppermint oil 0.60%, lemon grass oil 0.25%,
Notable Features: Vegan, Certified Organic Ingredient, kids-safe
Location/Shipping: USA, ships internationally
10. All-Terrain Herbal Armour
Calling all outdoor-loving kids!
Get ready to kick those annoying mosquito bites to the curb with Kids Herbal Armor Natural Insect Repellent!
This non toxic mosquito spray carries a herbal blend of six powerful essential oils that create an invisible shield against mosquitoes and other unwanted bugs.
Think soybean, citronella, peppermint, cedar, lemongrass, and geranium! Say goodbye to the icky chemicals with this non toxic bug spray for babies.
Price: From $6.99+
Ingredients: Soybean, citronella, peppermint, cedar, lemongrass, geranium
Notable Features: Natural ingredients, kids-safe, chemical-free, donations for every purchase
Location/Shipping: USA, ships internationally
11. Jao Patio oil
Jao Patio oil is a fantastic non toxic bug spray for those who prefer a touch of luxury in their insect-repelling game.
Infused with the mesmerizing scent of lemon eucalyptus, the brand’s best natural bug repellent doubles as a skin-nourishing elixir that will leave you feeling extra moisturized.
You can blame the stellar combination of jojoba oil, hemp oil, chamomile, and calendula for that! It’s like a spa treatment in a bottle!
Price: $30
Ingredients: Jojoba butter, vitamin E, lemon eucalyptus oil, chamomile, calendula
Notable Features: Natural ingredients, moisturizing effects, ideal for outdoor activities
Location/Shipping: USA, ships to Canada
12. Garner’s Garden
Garner’s Garden non toxic bug spray harvests the bug-blasting power of nature with a sensational blend of essential oils!
Eucalyptus, citronella, and lemongrass join forces in this all-natural bug-repellent extravaganza.
The hidden herbal weapon? Peppermint oil’s pick-me-up scent has those pesky mosquitoes scratching their tiny heads in confusion.
The DEET-free non toxic insect repellent promises to protect your skin, provide natural antibacterial and antifungal properties and help you reclaim your summer adventures!
Price: $12.99
Ingredients: Witch hazel, citronella, tea tree, lemongrass, peppermint
Notable Features: Natural ingredients, antibacterial, antifungal properties
Location/Shipping: USA, ships worldwide
13. Harpers Naturals
Harpers Naturals non toxic mosquito spray contains an incredible olive fruit oil-based blend of essential oils and witch hazel.
Say goodbye to the days of stinky DEET dominating your bug-repelling game.
This is a whole new level of fantastical bug protection that helps us enjoy a bite-free day or night outside without having to deal with strong scents.
Price: From $10.99+
Ingredients: Coconut oil, grape seed oil, witch hazel, vodka (as a preservative), vanilla extract, essential oils
Notable Features: Natural ingredients, pleasant scent, eco-friendly
Location/Shipping: USA, ships worldwide
14. Erbavia Buzz Spray
The Erbavia non toxic insect repellent uses a fantastic concoction infused with organic and biodynamic essential oils that will have those pesky bugs running for cover.
These organic ingredients (citronella, lemongrass, and rosemary,) are sourced using super-duper holistic farming practices that work their magic in healing the earth and replenishing the soil.
Plus, the biodynamic certification assures this alternative insect repellent can be used without worry of harsh chemicals and harmful synthetics.
Price: $21
Ingredients: Catnip, eucalyptus, cedarwood, citronella and lemongrass
Notable Features: Vegan, Certified Demeter Certified Biodynamic, natural ingredients, Certified B Corporation
Location/Shipping: USA
15. Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent
The Sawyer’s 20% Picaridin insect and tick repellent, the superhero of bug-busting without the need for DEET!
This non toxic bug spray is basically your best fly-repelling ally, keeping those pesky biters, stable flies, black flies, gnats, chiggers, and sand flies at bay.
In fact, the non-greasy fragrance-free spray is effective for up to 12 hours against mosquitoes and ticks and can provide up to 8 hours of protection against biting flies, gnats, chiggers, and sand flies.
So much so that it was the first choice by the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Canadian Advisory Committee on Tropical Medicine and Travel for travelers 6 months to 12 years of age.
Price: From $21.90+
Ingredients: 1-piperidinecarboxylic acid, 2-(2-hydroxyethyl)-, 1-methyl propyl ester
Notable Features: Natural ingredients, eco-friendly, safe for kids, long-lasting, low odor
Location/Shipping: USA, ships internationally
Bonus: Chagrin Valley Dont Bug Me Lotion Bar
Packed with the power of nature’s essential oils, including the amazing lemon eucalyptus, this non toxic insect repellent bar is CDC-approved and ready to tackle those pesky bugs without the need for DEET!
Plus, it will keep the skin hydrated and silky smooth while warding off those unwanted insect invaders.
What’s more, you can easily reuse the metal tin or bring it back to the store for scrap metal recycling when it finally reached the end of its lifecycle.
Price: $8.95
Ingredients: Bees wax, neem oil, lemon eucalyptus, citronella essential oil, cedarwood essential oil
Notable Features: Natural ingredients, recyclable tin packaging, USDA Organic Certified, Leaping Bunny Certified
Location/Shipping: USA, ships worldwide
This post is about the best non toxic and natural bug sprays.
Whether you want to venture forth into the wilderness or simply step outside our door, the best non toxic mosquito spray above will offer a safer and more sustainable approach to bug control. Natural bug repellents are not only safer for the skin but also way less polluting for our Planet – so the right option is pretty evident.
If you enjoyed this article on non toxic bug sprays, check out these other articles below!
- 15 Best Non Toxic Sunscreen Brands in 2023 For Super Safe Sun Protection
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