![]() ![]() We made sure to pay attention to how long the repellent stayed on, whether it sweat off easily, and if bugs were biting sooner than listed on the packaging. We used each bug spray a minimum of five times outside throughout the duration of the test. Next, we tested for water and sweat-proofing by first spraying the repellent and then spritzing the area with water to note if the chemicals ran or stayed absorbed into the skin. We also noted the texture of the spray on the skin, how long it took the repellent to dry, how the repellent smelled, and how well it absorbed. The bug sprays were first applied at home, following manufacturer instructions, and we noted whether we had any negative reaction to the spray. ![]() We tested 16 different bug sprays and mosquito repellents at least five times each to determine the best options for families, portability, long-term use, and more. ![]() 5 percent permethrin | 6-week duration | 24 ounces | Pump spray The formula bonds to the fabric for up to six weeks, or six wash cycles, so you won't need to reapply every single day or even every week. Just spray your clothes and gear with the repellent, and you're good to go. Ben's repellent also repels flies, gnats, and other insects as well. "I like this formula from Ben's because it not only repels mosquitoes, but ticks too, which can be a whole other problem in deep woods," she says. Permethrin is a CDC-approved insect repellent that can be used on fabrics, which is super important while out in deep woods. Ben's makes a permethrin-based repellent spray that Kenkare recommends. If you're headed out on a camping trip into the deep woods where monster mosquitoes and bugs thrive, it's best to use a repellent that you can spray on your clothes, tent, and gear to keep bugs away from you and your campground. The Details: 20 percent picaridin | 12-hour duration | 3 to 6 ounces | SprayĬlothing needs to hang for at least two hours to dry before wearing after spraying with Ben's. Price at time of publish: $24 for 4-ounce The company also makes a repellent spray specifically for clothing and gear. “And the smaller container is great to take with you for hiking.” The spray is available in 3, 4, and 6-ounce bottles at Amazon. “I like the spray because you can put it on a little kid’s arm without putting them in a cloud of bug spray,” says Kenkare. ![]() The formula is fragrance-free and won’t damage your clothing or gear. It also repels stable flies, black flies, gnats, chiggers, and sand flies, and protects for up to 12 hours. Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent is among the options that protect against ticks and mosquitoes and the diseases they spread without the unpleasant odor. Studies show that products containing 20 percent picaridin work just as well as DEET products and don’t give off the harsh smells that often come alongside bug sprays containing the popular active ingredient. If you're looking for something that also provides sun protection or want an essential oil-based product, there are also great options out there for you. Our picks include both DEET-based products and those made from picaridin, which Kenkare and her patients prefer because it doesn't have a harsh smell like the traditional bug spray ingredient. Kenkare is preparing to go on a medical mission trip to Zambia, where numerous mosquito-borne illnesses are endemic to the area.Īfter testing 16 different bug sprays, we have favorites that are gentle enough for the whole family to use and don't damage clothing or gear. Sonya Kenkare, a board-certified dermatologist and assistant professor at Rush University in Chicago, about what types and brands of bug sprays to use. Protecting yourself with bug spray before heading outdoors is the best way to lessen your risk of contracting an illness from a bite. Mosquitoes and ticks carry bacteria, parasites, and viruses - including Zika, dengue, and Lyme disease - that they transfer to humans through biting. Warm weather brings us fun in the sun, but it also means encounters with pesky bugs that can cause serious harm. ![]()
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