13 Deet-Free Non-Toxic Bug Spray & Tick Repellents

What is non-toxic bug spray?

Non-toxic bug sprays, sometimes called natural bug repellents, are formulated with plant-based ingredients that are generally considered safer for people, pets, and the environment.

Unlike DEET-based repellents, which can cause skin irritation or other health problems, non-toxic bug sprays are less likely to cause health issues or have negative side effects. 

Traditional bug sprays can contaminate water sources and harm wildlife, but non-toxic sprays pose a much lower risk. Since the ingredients are plant-based, they’re often biodegradable and less likely to harm the environment.  

What are the risks of chemical-based bug sprays?

One of the most common active ingredients found in these sprays is DEET (N, N-diethyl-meta-toluamide), which has been the subject of much scrutiny over the years due to severe health risks.

What is DEET & how does it work?

DEET is a synthetic chemical that has been used in insect repellents since the 1940s. It works by interfering with an insect’s ability to detect and locate human scents, effectively masking our presence and making us less attractive targets for bites. 

While DEET is generally considered safe when used according to label instructions, there are some concerns about its potential side effects.

Potential Health Risks Associated with DEET

• Eye Irritation: Getting DEET products in the eyes can cause significant discomfort, including irritation, pain, and watery eyes. It’s important to be cautious when applying bug sprays, particularly around the face, to avoid accidental eye contact.

• Skin Irritation & Toxicity: One of the most common issues associated with DEET is skin irritation. Some individuals may experience redness, rashes, or itching after applying DEET-containing bug sprays, especially with repeated or prolonged exposure. 

In rare cases, ingesting DEET can lead to more serious symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and even seizures or encephalopathy.

• Neurological Concerns: While studies are still ongoing, there are strong concerns about the potential neurological effects of excessive DEET exposure, particularly in children. These include seizures, behavioral changes, ataxia, encephalopathy, coma, tremor, and slurred speech.  

What beneficial ingredients should I look for in my natural bug spray?

EPA-Approved Natural Ingredients

When searching for a natural bug spray, look for products that contain ingredients approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) like oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE).

OLE is derived from the leaves of the lemon eucalyptus tree and has been shown to provide protection against mosquitoes and other biting insects for up to six hours.

Essential Oils

One of the most popular and well-known natural insect repellents is citronella oil, derived from the lemongrass plant.

This essential oil has been used for centuries to ward off mosquitoes and other flying insects. Its strong, citrusy scent masks the odors that attract bugs, making it harder for them to locate and bite you.

Other essential oils with insect-repelling properties include: lemongrass, peppermint, cedarwood, rosemary, and eucalyptus.

These essential oils work by emitting a strong fragrance that interferes with an insect’s ability to detect and locate potential hosts. 

Other Plant-Based Ingredients

Neem oil, extracted from the seeds of the neem tree, has long been used in traditional medicine for its insect-repelling properties. It contains compounds like azadirachtin, which disrupts the growth and development of various insects, making it a powerful natural bug deterrent.

Geraniol, a compound found in geranium plants, has also shown promise as an insect repellent. This natural alcohol has a pleasant, rose-like aroma and has been found to be effective against mosquitoes, flies, and ticks. Its low toxicity and biodegradability make it an eco-friendly choice for natural bug sprays.

Now that we’ve gone through what ingredients to look for in a non-toxic bug spray, you’re probably eager to start looking for the perfect one. So, without further ado, let’s get into our top 15 non-toxic bug sprays to keep you bite-free this summer. 

How often should I re-apply my bug spray?

One important thing to keep in mind when using natural bug sprays is that they may require more frequent reapplication compared to chemical-based repellents.

While products containing DEET can often provide protection for several hours, natural ingredients typically need to be reapplied every 1-2 hours for optimal effectiveness. 

Here are some good rules of thumb: 

• Reapply every 2 hours for plant-based repellents like citronella or peppermint oil.
• Reapply every 4-6 hours for picaridin, lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535 repellents.
• Reapply after swimming, excessive sweating, or as needed if insects start biting again.

How can I most effectively apply my non-toxic bug spray?

Proper Application Techniques

• Apply sunscreen first if going outdoors, let it fully absorb, then apply bug spray on top.
• Spray bug spray evenly over all exposed skin, not just a quick spritz. Cover every inch, especially ankles, knees, and feet where mosquitoes are attracted.
• For the face and ears, spray onto hands first and then rub onto those areas, avoiding the eyes and mouth.
• Don’t spray under clothing as it can cause skin irritation. Treat clothing separately if desired.

Applying to Clothing and Gear

• Permethrin can be sprayed on outerwear like shirts, pants, and socks for added protection, but not underwear.
• Hang clothing outside and spray until slightly damp, not dripping wet. Let dry completely before wearing.
• Permethrin on clothing lasts 6+ washings before needing retreatment. Non-washable items like shoes may need monthly retreatment.

Other Protective Measures

• Wear long sleeves, pants, and socks when possible to cover the skin.
• Use fans or mosquito netting over outdoor seating areas.
• Avoid being outdoors during peak mosquito times like dawn and dusk.
• Eliminate standing water breeding sites around your home.

Can I use non-toxic bug sprays on children and pets?

Yes, many non-toxic bug sprays are safe to use on children and pets when applied properly. The key is choosing an EPA-registered non-toxic repellent formulated for use on children and pets, using only the minimum amount needed, and following all label precautions. 

Here are some things to keep in mind when using non-toxic repellents around kids and pets:

Plant-based repellents like citronella, lemongrass, peppermint oil, and cedar oil are generally considered safe for use on children over 6 months old and pets. However, test on a small area first in case of sensitivity.

Picaridin and oil of lemon eucalyptus are synthetic alternatives to DEET that have low toxicity and are approved for children as young as 6 months.

Avoid using any repellent on infants under 6 months old. Their skin is too sensitive and they are at higher risk of adverse effects.

When applying to children, spray the repellent onto your hands first and then rub it onto the child’s exposed skin, avoiding eyes, mouth, cuts, or irritated skin.

For pets, spray the repellent onto your hands and then rub through their fur, avoiding eyes, nose, mouth, and any open wounds. Most pets can tolerate plant-based repellents well.

After returning indoors, wash treated skin with soap and water, especially before eating.