I do not like bugs. We live in the woods and spend most of our time outdoors. And the bugs can get bad. One of the best ways to keep bugs away is deet-free bug spray. There are other ways to keep the mosquitos away without using deet, but bug spray is one of the most convenient ways to do it. The best bug sprays are the ones that deter mosquitos, ticks, and flies.

Deet is a very harmful chemical and should never be used on the skin. Yes, deet is effective but other natural or deet-free bug sprays are effective too. Many bug sprays include essential oils and/ or permethrin instead of deet.

Here are our top ten favorites. Is there a particular brand you love that’s not listed? Recommend it in the comments below. If you are looking for other deet-free ways to keep bugs away, click here.

Best Deet Free Bug Sprays

1. Proven

Proven is our number one choice when it comes to bug repellants. My personal choice is the scent-free spray. They also have lightly scented lotion. The active ingredient is picaridin, derived from black pepper. With so many of us having sensitive skin and breathing problems, this one is our favorite.

2. Murphy’s

Eucalyptus and lemon are a perfect combo for keeping bugs away. Murphy’s not only has bug spray, but they also have candles, a balm that comes in a stick or a tin, and incense sticks. I love their incense sticks.

3. Wondercide

I didn’t realize that Wondercide makes bug repellant until recently. I knew that they made plant-based insecticide for the home because I use it. I use this brand because it’s safe for all of our pets. So I was really excited that they made a bug spray. It comes in 4 different scents: peppermint, cedarwood, lemongrass, and rosemary. And they also make a tick and flea spray for pets!

4. Bug Soothers

Bug Soothers is the brand I pick when the flies are a problem. It has a lemongrass and vanilla scent and seems more effective when it comes to gnat and flies than it is for mosquitoes. I have a bottle stashed next to the BBQ for when we have summer croquet games in the yard.

5. Coleman

Coleman is a brand that all outdoorsy people love. It’s because their products are the best when it comes to the stuff and gear you need for camping or other outdoor adventures. Coleman makes two deet-free bug sprays: Coleman Skinsmart and Coleman Botanicals.

6. All Terrain

All Terrain is a great brand for the outdoorsy lifestyle. Their blend includes citronella, cedar, lemongrass, geranium, and peppermint. I love the scent of this one the best. This bug spray comes in a travel size (2 fl oz) and a regular size (4 fl oz). All Terrain also makes an effective anti-itch cream or spray that I love too.

7. Badger

Badger has always been one of my favorite organic beauty and health product companies. I swear by their Sleep Balm. Badger’s bug repellent comes in a spray, a travel stick, and a balm. They use a mix of citronella and lemongrass.

8. Mambino Organics

Someone recently bought this for my daughter. We are about to have a grand baby and some gave her a bunch of Mambino products at her shower. It smells really good. We tried it out this weekend when we were in the hot tub and realized the mosquitos were out. It worked very well.

9. Greenerways Organic

Greenerways Organic bug spray is another organic option that is very effective. It can be used on skin, clothing and gear. This is a brand that can be found at most grocery stores.

10. Victoria’s Lavender

Victoria Lavendar’s Don’t Bug Me is the best-smelling bug spray I have ever tried. I find it works the best on those big horse flies that are everywhere in the summertime. The mix of lavender and aloe is not only soothing but especially nice around bedtime. This company also has other amazing lavender products you should try.

11. SkyOrganics

SkyOrganics is USDA-certified organic and made in small batches. It works best if applied to the skin and does not work well if applied to gear.

12. Cutter

Though Cutter makes one of the leading bug sprays with deet, they also have a plant-based option that is really affordable. Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus Bug Spray is less than $5.00. It contains lemon eucalyptus and works great for mosquitos.

13. Repel

Another brand known for its bug sprays with deet but has a deet-free option, is Repel. It is also made with lemon eucalyptus so you know it is going to smell nice.

14. Off!

Though I am sure you are familiar with Off! Deep Woods, did you know Off! also makes plant-based, deet free repellants as well? Off! has two choices, Off! Botanicals and Off! Kids, both plant-based bug sprays.

15. STEM

This bug spray is specifically for mosquitos and works very well. I use it as a backup when my other bug sprays arent working quite as well on mosquitos. STEM’s bug spray is safe for kids and pets.

16. Natrapel

This bug spray lasts up to 12 hours and uses a picaridin formula. Natrapel’s bug spray is good for all bugs including gnats, ticks, mosquitos, and flies. It is also safe for pregnant women, babies, children, and, pets.

17. Ranger Ready

Last but not least, Ranger Ready has an amazing picaridin-based bug spray. It’s non-greasy and safe on fabric and skin. It comes in four scents: no scent, amber/ cedar, orange/ bergamot, and sandalwood/lavender/ lemon. Ranger Ready also makes a permethrin spray that can be used to treat clothing. It also comes in multiple sizes for convenience.

Non-deet bug sprays work just as well as those with deet. They are safer too. Hopefully, you were able to find one that works for you. There are other brands out there, but these are the ones that I am familiar with and have tried. What is your favorite non-deet bug spray? Let me know below in the comments.