Top Natural Insect Repellents: Your Guide to Effective Bug Defense

Natural insect repellents are a popular choice for those who want to ward off pesky bugs without using harsh chemicals.

Whether you’re spending time outdoors or simply want to keep your home insect-free, natural repellents can be a safe and effective solution.

When it comes to choosing the best natural insect repellent, there are a few key factors to consider. One of the most important is the active ingredient.

Some common natural repellents include citronella, peppermint, and lemongrass, each with their unique scent and effectiveness.

Another important consideration is the form of the repellent, whether it’s a spray, lotion, or candle.

Of course, safety is also a top priority when choosing any insect repellent. It’s important to look for products that are non-toxic and safe for both humans and pets.

Additionally, some natural repellents may not be as effective as chemical alternatives, so it’s important to find a balance between safety and effectiveness.

Best Natural Insect Repellents

As we all know, insects can be a real nuisance, especially during the warmer months. While there are plenty of insect repellents on the market, many of them contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to our health and the environment.

That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best natural insect repellents that are effective, safe, and eco-friendly. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just spending time in your backyard, these products will help keep those pesky bugs at bay.

BUZZPATCH

We highly recommend BUZZPATCH for anyone looking for a natural and effective insect repellent for their family.

Pros

• Made with all-natural, plant-based ingredients
• Instant and most effective in the first 8 hours but continues to be effective for 24-72 hours
• Kid-friendly, parent-approved with cute smiley patterns

Cons

• May not be as effective for heavy mosquito areas
• May need to use multiple patches for maximum protection
• Adhesive may not stick well to certain fabrics

BUZZPATCH is a great choice for parents who want to protect their children from mosquitoes without exposing them to harmful chemicals. The all-natural, plant-based ingredients make it safe and non-toxic for the whole family to use.

We found that BUZZPATCH was most effective in the first 8 hours but continued to provide protection for up to 72 hours. The convenient patches are easy to apply and have a pleasant scent.

Kids will love the cute smiley patterns, and parents will appreciate the medical-grade adhesive patches that are water-resistant and comfortable to wear.

While BUZZPATCH may not be as effective in heavy mosquito areas, we found that using multiple patches provided maximum protection. The adhesive may not stick well to certain fabrics, so it's important to choose the right clothing to apply the patches to.

Overall, BUZZPATCH is a safe, effective, and convenient natural insect repellent that we highly recommend for families on the go.

PARAKITO Mosquito Band Adult

If you are looking for a natural insect repellent that is safe for the whole family, then the PARA'KITO Mosquito Band Adult is a great option.

Pros

• The PARA'KITO Pellets diffuse a unique cocktail of natural essential oils that effectively mask our presence from mosquitoes, by interfering with their olfactive radar. The essential oils in our PARA’KITO pellets are safe for even the youngest of skins and the whole family including sensitive persons, pregnant women, and babies.
• The band is waterproof and refillable, making it perfect for all day, all zones, all climates! Whether strolling through a forest, going camping, or snoozing by the pool, you and your band will soon be the best of friends. And, if you can’t bear to be apart, place it by your bed at night for buzz-free bliss. Comfortable, easy to use, and waterproof for all your activities.
• The band is easy to use. Worn around the wrist or ankle, this cool and comfy neoprene band comes with two refills of our proprietary essential-oil formula. Easy-to-adjust hook and loop fittings work for both kids and grown-ups, and a wide range of colours and patterns allow you to blend safety with style.

Cons

• The band may not work when you stop walking to set up camp.
• Some users have reported that the fabric gets dirty easily.
• The band may not be effective for long-range mosquito repellent.

We found that the PARA'KITO Mosquito Band Adult is a fun and stylish way to keep mosquitoes at bay. The natural essential oils/ingredients sourced from the best essential oils/ingredients worldwide and DEET-Free make it a safe option for the whole family. The band is also waterproof and refillable, making it perfect for all your outdoor activities.

The easy-to-use band is comfortable and comes with two refills of their proprietary essential-oil formula. The wide range of colours and patterns allow you to blend safety with style. However, the band may not work when you stop walking to set up camp, and some users have reported that the fabric gets dirty easily. Additionally, the band may not be effective for long-range mosquito repellent.

Overall, we recommend the PARA'KITO Mosquito Band Adult for those looking for a natural and safe option for mosquito repellent.

Good Riddance Tropical Insect Repellent

This is a great natural insect repellent for those looking for a DEET-free and sustainable option that is gentle on the skin and effective at repelling mosquitoes, midges, and sandflies for up to 4 hours. The cream has a beautiful lingering citrus fragrance that makes applying mosquito repellent a pleasant experience.

Pros

• Provides long-lasting, tropical strength protection against mozzies, midges & sandflies that carry harmful viruses such as Ross River and Dengue
• Smells great and moisturizes the skin
• Contains natural ingredients and slow-release essential oil actives

Cons

• May not be as effective in high-density mosquito areas
• Some users may not like the scent
• May need to reapply after 4 hours

We recently tried the Good Riddance Tropical Insect Repellent during a camping trip and were impressed with its effectiveness at keeping mosquitoes away. The cream was easy to apply and left our skin feeling moisturized and smelling great.

One thing to keep in mind is that in areas with a high density of mosquitoes, you may need to reapply the cream more frequently than every 4 hours. Additionally, some users may not like the scent of the product, although we found it to be pleasant.

Overall, we highly recommend the Good Riddance Tropical Insect Repellent for those looking for a natural and sustainable option that is effective at repelling insects. Plus, with 1% of sales going towards the Australian Wildlife Conservancy, you can feel good about supporting a great cause while keeping the bugs at bay.

Good Riddance Sensitive Insect Repellent

We highly recommend purchasing Good Riddance Sensitive Insect Repellent for those looking for a natural and safe alternative to DEET-based products.

Pros

• Clinically proven long-lasting natural protection against mosquitoes, midges, and sandflies
• Suitable for babies over 3 months, during pregnancy, and for use on sensitive skin or eczema
• Fresh, sweet floral aroma with herbaceous base notes and a hint of vanilla

Cons

• May not be as effective as DEET against some insects
• May need to be reapplied more frequently than chemical-based repellents
• Some users may not like the scent

We found that the cream-based formula helped to hold the essential oils on the skin for longer than a spray, reducing the need for reapplication. The cream is also rich in nourishing shea butter and beeswax, which make the product last longer on your skin and provide a physical barrier against midges and sandflies that has been clinically proven to be more effective than DEET.

The Sensitive range contains a combination of 100% pure essential oil actives that give the cream a fresh, sweet floral aroma with herbaceous base notes and a hint of vanilla. All of the essential oils were chosen for being safe to apply to babies and for their low irritant profile. That means there is no DEET or Citronella. A natural, low-irritant preservative derived from basil helps to maintain the shelf life of the cream.

Good Riddance Sensitive Insect Repellent was developed in Darwin and tested in Kakadu as a gentler alternative to nasty DEET products and citronella-filled natural repellents. The entire insect repellent range is APVMA registered and has undergone extensive clinical testing at independent labs across Australia to ensure it stands up against any DEET-filled mozzie and midge repellent products on the market.

Overall, we highly recommend Good Riddance Sensitive Insect Repellent for those looking for a natural and safe alternative to DEET-based products. Its effectiveness against mosquitoes, midges, and sandflies, combined with its suitability for sensitive skin and fresh scent, make it an excellent choice for those who want to avoid harsh chemicals.

Aerogard Naturals Plant Based Insect Repellent Spray, 175mL

If you're looking for a natural insect repellent that's effective and safe for children, Aerogard Naturals Plant Based Insect Repellent Spray is a great option.

Pros

• Provides up to 6 hours of protection from mosquitoes, flies, and sandflies using 100% plant-based active ingredients.
• The natural active ingredient is safe for children 12 months and over.
• Non-greasy formula with a pleasant scent of Lemon Eucalyptus essential oils.

Cons

• The spray nozzle can be a bit difficult to use, and the product may come out in a stream instead of a fine mist.
• The scent may be too strong for some people.
• The 175mL bottle may not last long if used frequently.

We recently tried this insect repellent spray during a camping trip and were impressed with its effectiveness. The spray provided long-lasting protection from mosquitoes and other insects, and we didn't have to worry about exposing our children to harsh chemicals. The non-greasy formula was easy to apply, and the scent was pleasant and refreshing.

One downside is that the spray nozzle can be a bit tricky to use, and the product may come out in a stream instead of a fine mist. This can make it difficult to apply evenly, especially on the face and other sensitive areas. Additionally, the scent may be too strong for some people, although we found it to be quite pleasant.

Overall, if you're looking for a natural insect repellent that's safe for children and effective against a variety of insects, Aerogard Naturals Plant Based Insect Repellent Spray is definitely worth trying. Just be aware of the potential issues with the spray nozzle and scent, and you should be good to go.

Buying Guide

When looking for a natural insect repellent, there are a few key features to consider to ensure you choose the best product for your needs.

Firstly, take note of the active ingredients. Essential oils such as citronella, eucalyptus, and lemongrass are commonly used as natural insect repellents. However, make sure to check the concentration of these oils as it can vary between products.

Secondly, consider the application method. Some natural insect repellents come in spray bottles, while others are in the form of lotions or balms. Choose a product that is easy to apply and fits your lifestyle.

Thirdly, check the duration of protection. Some natural insect repellents need to be reapplied every few hours, while others can provide protection for up to 8 hours.

It's also important to consider the type of insects you want to repel. Some natural insect repellents are effective against mosquitoes, while others are more suitable for repelling flies or ants.

Lastly, take note of any potential allergies or skin sensitivities you may have. Some natural insect repellents may contain ingredients that can cause irritation or allergic reactions. Always read the label and do a patch test before using a new product.

In summary, when choosing a natural insect repellent, consider the active ingredients, application method, duration of protection, target insects, and any potential allergies or skin sensitivities. By taking these factors into account, you can find a natural insect repellent that is effective and safe for you and your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can we create an effective mosquito repellent using household ingredients?

Mosquitoes are a persistent problem, but there are some household ingredients that can help keep them at bay. One of the most effective is a mixture of apple cider vinegar and essential oils such as citronella, eucalyptus, or peppermint. Simply mix a few drops of the oil with the vinegar and apply it to your skin or clothing. You can also use a mixture of garlic and water to create a spray that can be used on plants or around the home.

Which natural ingredients work best for repelling insects on skin?

There are several natural ingredients that work well for repelling insects on your skin. Some of the most effective include citronella, eucalyptus, lemon eucalyptus, and peppermint oil. These oils can be added to a carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil and applied directly to the skin. Other options include a mixture of witch hazel and essential oils, or a combination of apple cider vinegar and essential oils.

What are the top natural solutions for keeping insects out of the home?

There are several natural solutions that can help keep insects out of your home. One of the most effective is to use screens on your windows and doors to prevent them from entering. You can also use essential oils such as peppermint, lavender, or tea tree oil to create a natural insect repellent spray. Another option is to use diatomaceous earth, which is a powder made from fossilized algae that can be sprinkled around the home to repel insects.

How can we naturally protect our outdoor areas from insect infestation?

To naturally protect your outdoor areas from insect infestation, you can use a variety of methods. One option is to use plants that naturally repel insects, such as citronella, lemongrass, or lavender. You can also use essential oils in a diffuser or create a spray with water and essential oils to keep insects away. Another option is to use a mixture of garlic and water to create a spray that can be used on plants or around the home.

What are the most powerful natural scents that repel insects?

There are several natural scents that are known to repel insects. Some of the most powerful include citronella, eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint, and tea tree oil. These scents can be used in a variety of ways, such as in a diffuser, as a spray, or added to a carrier oil and applied directly to the skin.

What homemade concoctions are most effective for deterring bugs on plants?

To deter bugs on plants, there are several homemade concoctions that can be effective. One option is to mix a few drops of dish soap with water and spray it on the plants. Another option is to use a mixture of garlic and water, or a combination of essential oils and water. You can also use neem oil, which is a natural insecticide that can be applied directly to plants.