The Best Natural Bug Repellents

To say I hate mosquitoes would be quite the understatement. I’ve always been the one they swarm to first, if a group is outside and I’ll get 20 bites when everyone else gets maybe 1 or 2. And of course, there was the time I had malaria, which really added to my disdain. Luckily, I’ve finally found some choices that truly keep the bugs at bay and I don’t have to sacrifice my ingredient standards while using them. I’m excited to share the best natural bug repellents out there! They’re all non-toxic, work great, and are safe for the whole family.

I tested these products on myself, my kids and my husband. We live in Charlotte, NC, where the bugs and mosquitoes are very plentiful and I mainly used these in our backyard and neighborhood playground, which are both heavily wooded and attract lots of mosquitoes. I did not venture deep into the woods where there may have been ticks, etc.

Things like Lyme Disease and West Nile are no joke, so I would definitely choose a product that you feel confident in keeping your family safe if you’re in a high risk area. EWG.org lists their recommendations for kids in high risk areas here.

The Best Natural Bug Repellents

Zoe Organics Insect Repellent: With 41% rosemary hydrolat this does a good job of keeping mosquitos and gnats away. I haven’t noticed many bites while we use this. I may get one once in a while but overall this does great. It sprays easily and has a pleasant scent (rosemary plus a few essential oils like lemongrass and peppermint). Major props for using an aluminum bottle instead of plastic! Find it here. $19 Use code MAISONPUR to save.

Erbaviva Organic Buzz Spray This is one of the most effective ones for me, personally. As I mentioned, I’m a mosquito magnet and get the most bites of anyone in my family, but this consistently keeps me bite-free! It sprays and applies very easily. This has the most mild scent out of all of them, with lighter herbal notes and a hint of cinnamon. Find it here. $21

Kosmatology Bug Repellent Skin Balm: Hard to beat the very eco-friendly packaging! This is a push up balm and super easy to keep in your bag for playground days. It works well and I like the scent- A little herbal and a little citrus-y. I do find it slightly daunting to use it all over so the sprays are a go-to at home, but I love having this option to keep in my bag for on-the-go. Find it here. $18

Nurture My Body All Natural Bug Spray: Currently out of stock, but worth mentioning! This one may be my favorite out of all the nontoxic bug sprays I’ve tried. It easily sprays out in an even mist and isn’t greasy at all. Unlike a lot of other natural bug repellents, it actually has a pleasant scent- slightly sweet and not overpowering. This spray is totally effective. Neither myself or the kids got a single bite while using this.

Erin’s Faces Mosquito & Tick Repellent: This works SO well. Even in the deep woods. We used it horseback riding through the mountains last year and didn’t get a single bite! $14 Code MAISONPUR saves on your first order from them.

Here’s to the great outdoors!

*Some affiliate links used. All thoughts and opinions are my own