10 Best Insect Repellents 2026 in the United States

The Sawyer SP6572 Twin Pack is a permethrin-based insect repellent designed specifically for treating clothing and gear rather than skin. The active ingredient, permethrin, bonds to fabrics and remains effective for up to 6 weeks or 6 washes, providing long-lasting protection. This spray is unscented and safe to use on most fabrics, plastics, and outdoor equipment without causing damage or stains. It targets over 55 types of insects, including ticks—which are known to carry Lyme disease—and mosquitoes that can spread illnesses like West Nile and Zika.

This makes it a strong choice for outdoor enthusiasts involved in activities such as hiking, camping, hunting, or backyard BBQs. It’s also water and sweat resistant, although exposure to sunlight and washing eventually reduce its effectiveness. The twin pack offers good value and enough spray to treat multiple outfits, making it convenient for families or frequent users.

One limitation is that it’s meant only for fabric application, so it should be paired with a skin-safe repellent if you want full-body protection. Also, while permethrin is generally safe when used as directed, it’s important to follow instructions carefully, especially around children and pets. For those seeking a reliable, long-lasting insect repellent for clothing, this product delivers strong protection and ease of use, particularly in tick-heavy areas.

Thermacell Mosquito Repellent Refills offer a convenient and effective way to repel mosquitoes without applying sprays or lotions on your skin. Using a proprietary, scent-free formula, these refills provide up to 15 feet of mosquito protection that kicks in within 15 minutes and lasts about 4 hours per mat. The pack includes 30 mats and 10 fuel cartridges, giving you around 120 hours of total protection when used with compatible Thermacell fuel-powered devices (except the Backpacker model). Because it’s designed as an area repellent rather than a skin application, it’s a good choice for those who want protection without direct chemical contact or strong odors. It’s also EPA reviewed and considered safe for people and pets, making it suitable for outdoor family activities.

On the downside, the refills only protect a limited radius, so it may not be ideal for larger gatherings or very open spaces. Also, it requires owning a Thermacell device since it’s just a refill pack, not a standalone repellent. The lack of DEET and no smoke or flame adds to the safety and comfort, but users should note it’s for outdoor use only. Many users appreciate the ease of use and consistent performance, though keeping track of when to change mats is necessary.

For those looking for a hands-free, odorless mosquito barrier suitable for small to medium outdoor areas, these Thermacell refills represent a reliable option.

Thermacell Tick Control Tubes offer a unique, no-spray solution to reduce deer ticks in your yard. Instead of using chemicals sprayed in the air or on surfaces, these tubes rely on placing treated cotton inside small biodegradable tubes where mice collect nesting material. The active ingredient is permethrin, which kills ticks that come into contact with the cotton. You get 24 tubes that cover about a quarter of an acre, and for best results, they should be applied twice a year, in spring and summer. This method works well particularly in regions where Lyme disease is common, such as the Northeast and Northern forest areas of the U.S.

The product is designed to be environmentally friendly and safe for pets and people since it targets ticks without spraying chemicals broadly. Placement is straightforward: put the tubes near mouse-frequented areas like wood piles or garden edges, spaced about 10 yards apart. However, this product only targets ticks—not other insects like mosquitoes or flies—and its effectiveness depends on mice collecting the cotton, so it may not eliminate all ticks immediately. While the protection lasts through the tick season, it needs reapplication twice yearly.

Some users appreciate the mess-free, scent-free approach, though others may find this less direct than a spray repellent. For those seeking a low-maintenance, eco-conscious way to reduce ticks in their yard and protect family and pets from tick-borne diseases, Thermacell Tick Control Tubes provide a solid option without the fuss of sprays or granules.