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10 Best Insect Repellent For Gnat 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9 score

Sawyer Products SP565 Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin, 1-Quart Lotion Pump Dispenser,White

The Sawyer Products SP565 Premium Insect Repellent is a lotion-based repellent featuring 20% Picaridin as the active ingredient. Picaridin is known for being effective against a variety of pests, including gnats, mosquitoes, and ticks. One of the standout features of this product is its long-lasting protection, offering up to 8 hours of defense against gnats and other pests, which is quite impressive for outdoor activities like camping, hiking, or backyard BBQs.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Active Ingredient
Unlike DEET, it doesn't melt plastic and ruin your camera gear, or telescope or whatever else you touch when you are out at night.
Formulation
The pump works great, though the pump handle and stroke is very long, so a full pump gives you a huge amount of the lotion.
Duration of Protection
This stuff is awesome. It's far more effective, lasts longer, feels cleaner, and is more affordable than other alternatives.
Skin Sensitivity
It has proven to be far superior to other sprays and lotions we've tried. No smell, no rashes, no side effects.
#2
9.8 score

Thermacell Patio Shield Mosquito Repeller, Blue; Highly Effective Mosquito Repellent for Patio; No Candles or Flames, DEET-Free, Scent-Free, Bug Spray Alternative; Includes 12-Hour Refill

The Thermacell Patio Shield Mosquito Repeller is a user-friendly, DEET-free option for repelling mosquitoes, making it an attractive choice for those seeking an alternative to traditional sprays and lotions. Its active ingredient is diffused through a small, portable device that creates a 15-foot zone of protection, which is effective within 15 minutes of activation.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Duration of Protection
With three scent pads and one fill of butane, it effectively lasted an entire summer for continuous protection.
Scent
The repeller works silently and without any noticeable smell, making it an unobtrusive addition to outdoor activities.
#3
9.6 score

Sawyer Products SP6492 Premium Permethrin Insect Repellent for Clothing, Gear & Tents, Trigger Spray, 12-Ounce, Twin Pack

The Sawyer Products SP6492 Premium Permethrin Insect Repellent is designed for use on clothing, gear, and tents. This product shines in its long-lasting protection, with a single application lasting up to 6 weeks or 6 washings, making it highly convenient for outdoor enthusiasts. It is effective against over 55 types of insects, including ticks and mosquitoes that carry harmful diseases, which is a crucial feature for those spending time in high-risk areas.

Top 10 Best Insect Repellent For Gnat 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

9.9 score

Sawyer Products SP565 Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin, 1-Quart Lotion Pump Dispenser,White

Active Ingredient: Picaridin
Concentration: 20%
Formulation: Lotion-based, non-greasy, quick-drying
Duration of Protection: Up to 8 hours
Skin Sensitivity: Safe for skin, patch test recommended
Scent: Fragrance-free

Chosen by 1458 this week

Sawyer Products SP5442 Picaridin Insect Repellent, 4 Fl Oz (Pack of 2) - Packaging May Vary

Active Ingredient: Picaridin
Concentration: 20%
Formulation: Non-greasy, dries quickly
Duration of Protection: 8 hours flies, gnats, chiggers; 12 hours mosquitoes, ticks
Skin Sensitivity: Skin-friendly
Scent: Unscented

Sawyer Products SP576 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent, Continuous Spray, 6-Ounce

Active Ingredient: Picaridin
Concentration: 20%
Formulation: Non-greasy, quick-drying
Duration of Protection: 8 hours
Skin Sensitivity: Patch test before full application
Scent: Fragrance Free

Repel 100 Insect Repellent, Pump Spray, 4-Fluid Ounces, 10-Hour Protection

Active Ingredient: DEET
Concentration: 98.11%
Formulation: Pump spray
Duration of Protection: Up to 10 hours
Skin Sensitivity: Irritation for sensitive skin
Scent: Unscented

Sawyer Products Premium MAXI DEET, 100% DEET Insect Repellent

Active Ingredient: 100% DEET
Concentration: 100% DEET
Formulation: Low-odor
Duration of Protection: up to 10 hours
Skin Sensitivity: might cause skin sensitivity
Scent: Unscented

Bug Soother MAX - Natural Gnat, Tick, and Mosquito Repellent, 8 fl oz Bug Spray Deterrent - DEET-Free Safe for Adults and The Environment - Made in USA

Active Ingredient: Essential oils (cedarwood, peppermint, thyme, citronella)
Formulation: Oil
Duration of Protection: 6 hours mosquitoes, 2 hours ticks
Skin Sensitivity: Essential oils can cause skin irritation
Scent: Herbaceous with woody and floral notes
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Buying Guide for the Best Insect Repellent For Gnat

Choosing the right insect repellent for gnats can make a significant difference in your comfort and health, especially if you spend a lot of time outdoors. Gnats can be quite bothersome, and an effective repellent can help you avoid their bites and the potential irritation or infections that can come with them. When selecting an insect repellent, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best product for your needs.
Active IngredientThe active ingredient in an insect repellent is the chemical that repels the gnats. Common active ingredients include DEET, Picaridin, and natural oils like lemon eucalyptus. DEET is highly effective and long-lasting, making it suitable for heavy gnat infestations or extended outdoor activities. Picaridin is also effective and has a more pleasant smell and feel on the skin. Natural oils are a good choice for those who prefer a more natural product, but they may need to be reapplied more frequently. Choose an active ingredient based on your preference for effectiveness, scent, and skin sensitivity.
ConcentrationThe concentration of the active ingredient determines how long the repellent will be effective. Higher concentrations provide longer protection but can be harsher on the skin. For DEET, concentrations can range from 5% to 100%. Lower concentrations (5-10%) are suitable for short-term exposure, while higher concentrations (20-30%) are better for extended outdoor activities. For Picaridin, concentrations typically range from 10% to 20%. Choose a concentration based on the duration of your outdoor activity and your skin's sensitivity.
FormulationInsect repellents come in various formulations, including sprays, lotions, wipes, and wearable devices. Sprays are easy to apply and cover large areas quickly, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Lotions provide more controlled application and can be less messy. Wipes are convenient for on-the-go use and targeted application. Wearable devices, such as bracelets, offer a hands-free option but may not be as effective as topical applications. Choose a formulation based on your convenience, application preference, and the level of protection you need.
Duration of ProtectionThe duration of protection indicates how long the repellent will keep gnats away. This is often linked to the concentration of the active ingredient. Products with higher concentrations generally offer longer protection. For example, a repellent with 20% DEET may provide protection for up to 4-5 hours, while one with 100% DEET can last up to 10 hours. Consider how long you will be outdoors and choose a product that matches the duration of your activity to ensure continuous protection.
Skin SensitivitySome people have sensitive skin that can react to certain chemicals in insect repellents. If you have sensitive skin, look for products that are labeled as hypoallergenic or designed for sensitive skin. Natural repellents with ingredients like lemon eucalyptus oil can be gentler on the skin, though they may need to be reapplied more frequently. Always do a patch test before using a new product extensively to ensure it does not cause irritation.
ScentThe scent of an insect repellent can be an important factor, especially if you are sensitive to strong smells. DEET-based repellents often have a strong chemical odor, while Picaridin has a milder scent. Natural repellents usually have a pleasant, herbal smell. Choose a scent that you find tolerable, as you will be wearing the repellent for extended periods. If you are sensitive to smells, opt for a product with a milder or more pleasant fragrance.

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