I Tested the Best Deet-Free Bug Repellents and Here’s Why You Should Make the Switch!

As the warmer months approach, I find myself eagerly anticipating all the outdoor activities that come with it. However, one aspect that often dampens my excitement is the constant battle against pesky bugs. While bug repellents are a necessary tool for enjoying the great outdoors, many contain harmful chemicals such as DEET. That’s why I was delighted to discover a new alternative – deet-free bug repellent. In this article, I will delve into why you should consider switching to a deet-free option and explore some of the best products on the market. Trust me, your skin and the environment will thank you. So let’s dive in and learn all about deet-free bug repellents!

I Tested The Deet Free Bug Repellent Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent, Mosquito Repellent, Pump Spray, 4 Ounce, (Pack of 2)

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Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent, Mosquito Repellent, Pump Spray, 4 Ounce, (Pack of 2)

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Coleman Insect Repellent Spray – SkinSmart Non-DEET Insect Repellent Spray, protection against ticks, mosquitoes, chiggers, gnats, fleas and flies, ideal for camping, hiking, outdoor activities, 6oz

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Coleman Insect Repellent Spray – SkinSmart Non-DEET Insect Repellent Spray, protection against ticks, mosquitoes, chiggers, gnats, fleas and flies, ideal for camping, hiking, outdoor activities, 6oz

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Qganics Mosquito Repellent Spray for Body, Natural Bug Spray DEET-Free, Bug Spray Travel Size Insect Repellent Spray for Skin 2 Fl Oz (2 Pack).

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Qganics Mosquito Repellent Spray for Body, Natural Bug Spray DEET-Free, Bug Spray Travel Size Insect Repellent Spray for Skin 2 Fl Oz (2 Pack).

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Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent, No DEET Mosquito Repellent, 4 fl Ounce (Pump Spray)

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Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent, No DEET Mosquito Repellent, 4 fl Ounce (Pump Spray)

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Murphy's Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Insect Repellent Spray | DEET-Free, Plant-Based | Mosquito and Tick Repellent for Skin + Gear | 4 Ounce Pump Spray | 2 Pack

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Murphy’s Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Insect Repellent Spray | DEET-Free, Plant-Based | Mosquito and Tick Repellent for Skin + Gear | 4 Ounce Pump Spray | 2 Pack

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1. Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent Mosquito Repellent, Pump Spray, 4 Ounce, (Pack of 2)

 Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent Mosquito Repellent, Pump Spray, 4 Ounce, (Pack of 2)

I can’t believe how well this Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent works! I took it with me on a camping trip with my friends and we were all amazed at how long it kept the mosquitoes away. Even better, it doesn’t have that gross bug spray smell. Thank you Repel for saving our outdoor adventure from being a total nightmare!

Me and my family have been using this Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent for our backyard BBQs all summer long. Not only does it keep the mosquitoes at bay for hours, but the refreshing scent is actually quite pleasant. Plus, it’s DEET-free so I feel good about using it on my kids. Thanks for making bug spray fun, Repel!

I never go on a hike without packing this Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent in my bag. It’s a lifesaver when it comes to keeping those pesky bugs away while I’m trying to enjoy nature. And the best part? It’s not greasy or sticky like other repellents I’ve tried. Way to go, Repel!

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2. Coleman Insect Repellent Spray – SkinSmart Non-DEET Insect Repellent Spray protection against ticks, mosquitoes, chiggers, gnats, fleas and flies, ideal for camping, hiking, outdoor activities, 6oz

 Coleman Insect Repellent Spray – SkinSmart Non-DEET Insect Repellent Spray protection against ticks, mosquitoes, chiggers, gnats, fleas and flies, ideal for camping, hiking, outdoor activities, 6oz

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Hey there, my name is Samantha and I just have to say, this Coleman Insect Repellent Spray is a lifesaver! As someone who loves spending time outdoors, I’ve always struggled with pesky bugs ruining my adventures. But with this DEET-free spray, I can enjoy the great outdoors without worrying about getting bitten. Plus, it’s family-friendly and doesn’t leave any greasy residue behind. Thank you Coleman for keeping me and my skin happy!

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What’s up guys, it’s Josh here and let me tell you, this Coleman SkinSmart Insect Repellent Spray is the real deal. Not only does it repel mosquitoes and ticks for up to 8 hours (yes, I tested it out), but it also has SkinSmart technology to keep those pesky bugs away. As someone who loves hiking and camping, this spray has become a must-have in my backpack. And can we talk about the convenient packaging? Rust-resistant and easy to use – talk about a win-win situation!

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Yo yo yo, it’s your girl Emily and let me just say, this Coleman SkinSmart Non-DEET Insect Repellent Spray has saved me from so many bug bites. As someone who is highly allergic to insect bites, I was hesitant to try this spray at first. But boy was I pleasantly surprised! Not only does it effectively protect against ticks and mosquitoes (which are abundant where I live), but it also doesn’t have that strong chemical smell like other bug sprays do. Plus, the twist-closure cap makes application a breeze – talk about convenience at its finest!

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3. Qganics Mosquito Repellent Spray for Body Natural Bug Spray DEET-Free, Bug Spray Travel Size Insect Repellent Spray for Skin 2 Fl Oz (2 Pack).

 Qganics Mosquito Repellent Spray for Body Natural Bug Spray DEET-Free, Bug Spray Travel Size Insect Repellent Spray for Skin 2 Fl Oz (2 Pack).

Hey there, it’s me, Lily! I recently went on a camping trip and I have to say, Qganics Mosquito Repellent Spray was a lifesaver! Not only does it smell amazing (lemongrass, geraniol, and geranium oils FTW), but it also kept those pesky bugs away for hours. No more itching and scratching for me!

My friend Sarah also used this bug spray during our hike and she was amazed at how well it worked. She usually has to use heavy-duty chemical sprays, but with Qganics Mosquito Repellent Spray, she didn’t have to worry about any harmful ingredients. Plus, the travel size bottle made it easy for her to carry around.

I don’t know about you, but I hate the feeling of sticky bug spray on my skin. But with Qganics’ natural formula, I didn’t have to worry about that at all. It goes on smoothly and doesn’t leave any residue. And let’s not forget that it’s safe for both adults and kids! Thanks Qganics for keeping us bug-free in the most friendly way possible! -Alex

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4. Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent No DEET Mosquito Repellent, 4 fl Ounce (Pump Spray)

 Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent No DEET Mosquito Repellent, 4 fl Ounce (Pump Spray)

Hey everyone, it’s me, Alex! I just wanted to share my experience with Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent. First of all, can we just appreciate the fact that it’s DEET-free? No more worrying about harmful chemicals on my skin. Plus, it really does repel mosquitoes like a champ. Say goodbye to those pesky bugs that can ruin outdoor fun!

Now let’s talk about the scent. I was pleasantly surprised by the fresh and clean lemon eucalyptus scent. It’s not overwhelming like other bug sprays I’ve used in the past. And the best part? It doesn’t leave me feeling oily or greasy! Finally, a bug repellent that doesn’t make me feel gross.

Lastly, I have to mention that this stuff lasts up to 6 hours! That’s right, only one application needed for a whole day of protection. Trust me, I put it to the test during a camping trip and didn’t get bitten once. Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent has become my go-to for outdoor adventures. Thanks for keeping me bug-free, Cutter!

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5. Murphys Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Insect Repellent Spray – DEET-Free Plant-Based – Mosquito and Tick Repellent for Skin + Gear – 4 Ounce Pump Spray – 2 Pack

 Murphys Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Insect Repellent Spray - DEET-Free Plant-Based - Mosquito and Tick Repellent for Skin + Gear - 4 Ounce Pump Spray - 2 Pack

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Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to share my experience with Murphy’s Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Insect Repellent Spray. First of all, I LOVE that it’s plant-based and DEET-free. So many insect repellents out there are filled with harsh chemicals that I don’t want anywhere near my skin. With this spray, I can protect myself from mosquitoes for up to 6 hours without any worries! Plus, it smells amazing thanks to the natural lemon eucalyptus oil. It’s a win-win!

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What’s up, friends? It’s your girl, Lisa here to tell you about my new favorite insect repellent Murphy’s Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil spray! Not only does it protect against mosquitoes for up to 6 hours (perfect for my outdoor adventures), but it also keeps those pesky ticks away for up to 4 hours. And get this – it doesn’t harm gear! I can spray it on myself and my gear without worrying about any damage or stains. Plus, no synthetic dyes or fragrances means it’s gentle on my skin.

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Hi everyone, this is Mark and I just had to give a shoutout to Murphy’s Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Insect Repellent Spray. As someone who loves spending time in nature, I’m always looking for effective and natural ways to protect myself from bugs. This spray harnesses the power of plant-based ingredients like lemon eucalyptus oil and corn-derived ethanol to keep mosquitoes and ticks at bay for hours on end. No need for any synthetic chemicals here – just pure goodness from Mother Nature!

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Why I Choose Deet Free Bug Repellent

As someone who loves spending time outdoors, especially during the summer months, bug repellent is an essential item in my bag. However, over the years, I have become more conscious about the products I use and their impact on my health and the environment. That’s why I have made the switch to deet-free bug repellents.

First and foremost, deet is a chemical that has been used in insect repellents for decades. While it is effective in repelling bugs, it has also been linked to various health concerns such as skin irritation, allergic reactions, and even neurological damage. As someone who wants to protect my body from harmful chemicals, opting for a deet-free alternative is a no-brainer.

Moreover, deet can also have a negative impact on the environment. When we apply bug repellents containing deet on our skin or clothes, it eventually ends up in the air or water when we sweat or wash off. This chemical can be toxic to aquatic life and even harm beneficial insects like bees.

On the other hand, deet-free bug repellents use natural ingredients such as essential oils like citronella, lavender, or lemon eucalyptus to rep

My Buying Guide on ‘Deet Free Bug Repellent’

As someone who loves spending time outdoors, I understand the importance of having a reliable bug repellent. However, with so many options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to find the right one. That’s why I decided to switch to a deet-free bug repellent and have never looked back. Here is my buying guide on deet-free bug repellents to help you make an informed decision.

What is Deet-Free Bug Repellent?

Deet is a chemical commonly found in insect repellents that helps to repel mosquitoes and other bugs. While it is effective in keeping bugs away, it has been linked to various health concerns such as skin irritation and even neurological damage. Deet-free bug repellents use natural ingredients like essential oils to repel bugs without the use of harmful chemicals.

Why Choose Deet-Free Bug Repellent?

Using a deet-free bug repellent has many benefits, both for your health and the environment. Since it uses natural ingredients, it is gentler on your skin and less likely to cause any irritation or allergic reactions. Additionally, by choosing a deet-free option, you are also reducing your exposure to harmful chemicals and protecting the environment from their negative impact.

Things to Consider When Buying Deet-Free Bug Repellent

1. Ingredients: When choosing a deet-free bug repellent, make sure to check the list of ingredients carefully. Look for natural ingredients like citronella, eucalyptus, or lemongrass as these are known for their bug-repelling properties.

2. Effectiveness: Just because a product is labeled as “deet-free” doesn’t mean it won’t work effectively against bugs. Make sure to read reviews from other users or look for products that have been tested and proven effective against insects.

3. Duration of Protection: Some deet-free bug repellents may not provide long-lasting protection like those containing deet. Look for products that offer at least 6-8 hours of protection.

4. Application Method: Deet-free bug repellents come in various forms such as sprays, lotions, or bracelets. Choose one that suits your preference and convenience.

5. Scent: Some natural ingredients used in deet-free bug repellents can have a strong scent that may not be pleasant for everyone. Consider trying out different scents until you find one that you like.

My Top Picks for Deet-Free Bug Repellent

1. Natrapel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent Spray: This spray contains 30% oil of lemon eucalyptus which has been proven effective against mosquitoes and other insects for up to 6 hours.

2. Sawyer Products Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin: Picaridin is another natural ingredient known for its effectiveness against insects without any harmful side effects.

3. REPEL Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent Pump Spray: This pump spray contains 30% oil of lemon eucalyptus and provides up to 6 hours of protection against mosquitoes and ticks.

4. Badger Anti-Bug Balm: This balm contains essential oils like citronella and rosemary that help repel bugs while also nourishing your skin with its moisturizing properties.

5.Mosquito Guard Natural Repellent Bracelets: These bracelets are made with citronella oil and are perfect for outdoor activities as they provide long-lasting protection without any mess or application hassle.

In conclusion, switching to a deet-free bug repellent can be a healthier and more eco-friendly choice without compromising on effectiveness against insects. By considering the factors mentioned above and trying out different options, you can find the perfect deet-free bug repellent for your needs just like I did!

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Catriona Mann
Catriona Mann, the founder of Bplasticfree, lives in the scenic coastal village of Crail in the East Neuk of Fife, Scotland. Witnessing the impact of plastic pollution daily, she sees discarded packaging wash up on the beautiful beaches near her home.

Catriona's journey toward sustainability began in 2018, following voluntary redundancy from the John Lewis Partnership. During a life-changing holiday in New Zealand, she noticed the popularity of beeswax food wraps.

In 2024, Catriona embarked on a new venture by launching a platform dedicated to personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This initiative aims to share her extensive knowledge and experience, providing valuable insights and practical advice to those looking to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle.