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10 Best Insect Repellent For Gnat 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
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.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,216
Active Ingredient
Formulation
Duration of Protection
Most important from
49394 reviews
#2
Sawyer Products SP5442 Picaridin Insect Repellent, 4 Fl Oz (Pack of 2) - Packaging May Vary
The Sawyer Products SP5442 Picaridin Insect Repellent is a solid choice for keeping gnats and other pesky insects at bay. It uses 20% Picaridin, an effective and skin-friendly active ingredient. This formulation is non-greasy and dries quickly, making it comfortable to wear on your skin. Plus, it's safe for use on clothing and various gear items without causing damage.
Rating
9.1
Formulation
Most important from
49394 reviews
#3
Thermacell Mosquito Repeller Patio Shield; Includes 12-Hour Refill; 15 Foot Zone of Protection; Highly Effective Mosquito Repellent for Patio; Bug Spray Alternative; Scent Free
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.
Rating
9.1
Duration of Protection
Scent
Most important from
46419 reviews
Top 10 Best Insect Repellent For Gnat 2026 in the United States
#1
Winner
Sawyer Products SP565 Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin, 1-Quart Lotion Pump Dispenser,White
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 1216 this week
Sawyer Products SP5442 Picaridin Insect Repellent, 4 Fl Oz (Pack of 2) - Packaging May Vary
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
Thermacell Mosquito Repeller Patio Shield; Includes 12-Hour Refill; 15 Foot Zone of Protection; Highly Effective Mosquito Repellent for Patio; Bug Spray Alternative; Scent Free
Thermacell Mosquito Repeller Patio Shield; Includes 12-Hour Refill; 15 Foot Zone of Protection; Highly Effective Mosquito Repellent for Patio; Bug Spray Alternative; Scent Free
Active Ingredient: DEET-free
Formulation: Mosquito Repeller
Duration of Protection: 4 hours
Skin Sensitivity: good for sensitive skin
Scent: Scent Free
Sawyer Products SP6492 Premium Permethrin Insect Repellent for Clothing, Gear & Tents, Trigger Spray, 12-Ounce, Twin Pack
Sawyer Products SP6492 Premium Permethrin Insect Repellent for Clothing, Gear & Tents, Trigger Spray, 12-Ounce, Twin Pack
Active Ingredient: Permethrin
Formulation: Fragrance-free
Duration of Protection: 6 weeks or 6 washings
Scent: Unscented
OFF! Outdoor Insect & Mosquito Repellent Fogger, Backyard Pretreat, Kills & Repels Insects in an up to 900 sq, ft, area, 16 oz (Pack of 2)
OFF! Outdoor Insect & Mosquito Repellent Fogger, Backyard Pretreat, Kills & Repels Insects in an up to 900 sq, ft, area, 16 oz (Pack of 2)
Formulation: Unscented
Duration of Protection: 6 hours
Skin Sensitivity: Highly sensitive skin caution
Scent: Unscented
Related Products
Up to 7% off
Sawyer Products SP576 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent, Continuous Spray, 6-Ounce
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
No Natz Botanical Bug Repellant, Effective for Gnat, Mosquito, and Biting Flies, Hand-Crafted and DEET-Free, Non-Greasy Formula, 8 Ounce Spray Bottle
No Natz Botanical Bug Repellant, Effective for Gnat, Mosquito, and Biting Flies, Hand-Crafted and DEET-Free, Non-Greasy Formula, 8 Ounce Spray Bottle
Active Ingredient: rosemary, lemongrass, geranium, citronella
Formulation: non-greasy, non-sticky
Skin Sensitivity: Hypoallergenic
Scent: Coconut, Citronella
Repel 100 Insect Repellent, Pump Spray, 4-Fluid Ounces, 10-Hour Protection
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
OFF! Family Care Insect & Mosquito Repellent, Bug Spray Containing 15% DEET, Protects Against Mosquitoes, 4 Oz, 2 Count
OFF! Family Care Insect & Mosquito Repellent, Bug Spray Containing 15% DEET, Protects Against Mosquitoes, 4 Oz, 2 Count
Active Ingredient: DEET
Concentration: 15%
Formulation: Spray
Skin Sensitivity: Patch test advised
Scent: Unscented
#10
BUGGINS Original - Insect Repellent - Gnats & Mosquitoes, DEET Free, Non-Greasy - 4 oz Pump Spray Bottle - 2 Pack
BUGGINS Original - Insect Repellent - Gnats & Mosquitoes, DEET Free, Non-Greasy - 4 oz Pump Spray Bottle - 2 Pack
Active Ingredient: essential oils
Formulation: water-based
Duration of Protection: about an hour
Skin Sensitivity: gentle on the skin
Scent: Vanilla Mint Rose
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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.