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Best Non-Toxic Bug Spray in 2025
Updated:
Aug 28, 2025
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What we look for:
- Thoughtful formulas made with natural or safe synthetic ingredients
- Free from parabens, PEGs, phthalates, harsh sulfates, BHA/BHT, artificial dyes, formaldehyde-releasing ingredients, and undisclosed synthetic fragrance (unless certified safe)
- Minimal, well-chosen preservatives
- Trusted third-party certifications when available
- Transparent sourcing, ingredient lists, and manufacturing practices
Find Non-Toxic Bug Spray
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Bug Repellent - Badger
Welpr Rating
4.95
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$7.99
Product Details
- Uses organic plant-based ingredients and essential oils, free from harmful chemicals.
- Offers lab-tested protection against mosquitoes and flies for up to 3.5 hours.
- Safe for the whole family, including children and toddlers.
- Comes in a convenient, non-melting, and TSA-approved travel tin.
- Produced sustainably using solar power and packaged in a recyclable metal tin.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Made with clean, non-toxic ingredients.
- Provides effective protection for both adults and children.
- Pleasant, non-overpowering scent that's family-friendly.
- Convenient, travel-friendly size perfect for on-the-go use.
- Also soothing for existing bug bites.
Cons
- Some users found it may not repel stronger mosquito types or in heavily infested areas.
- The small tin size might feel insufficient for extended usage to a few.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Organic Castor Oil, Organic Citronella Oil, Organic Cedar Oil, Organic Lemongrass Oil, Organic Rosemary Oil, & Organic Geranium Oil, Inactive Ingredients: Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil And Organic Beeswax
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Anti-Bug Shake & Spray - Badger
Welpr Rating
4.9
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$11.99
Product Details
- Repels mosquitoes and other biting insects for up to 3 hours.
- Crafted with organic citronella, rosemary, and lemongrass essential oils for a pleasant scent without DEET.
- Safe and gentle for the whole family, including kids and those with sensitive skin.
- Eco-friendly with a recyclable aluminum bottle and made with solar power.
- Convenient and easy to apply with a portable pump spray bottle.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Contains no DEET and is made from natural ingredients, ensuring eco-friendly use.
- Smells great with a pleasant and refreshing aroma, such as lemongrass and citronella.
- Suitable for sensitive skin, babies, and even pregnant users, offering safe protection for the whole family.
- Effective at repelling mosquitoes and other insects, even in heavily infested areas.
- Non-toxic and doesn't leave a greasy or sticky residue on the skin.
Cons
- Some users experienced issues with the sprayer malfunctioning after a few uses.
- The strong scent might be too intense for those sensitive to smells.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Organic Soybean Oil, Organic Castor Oil, Organic Citronella Oil, Organic Cedar Oil, Organic Lemongrass Oil, Organic Rosemary Oil, Organic Geranium Oil, Organic Peppermint Oil, Inactive Ingredients: Water, Organic Wintergreen Oil
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Natural Bug Repellent Spray - California Baby
Welpr Rating
4.85
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$11.99
Product Details
- Features a DEET-free formula using citronella and lemongrass oils to repel mosquitoes and bugs.
- Safe for babies 6 months and older, making it a family-friendly choice.
- Offers a pleasant citronella and lemongrass scent unlike many other bug sprays.
- Free from common allergens such as gluten, soy, and dairy, reducing risk of allergic reactions.
- Manufactured in a certified organic facility with responsible sourcing practices.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Features natural, non-toxic ingredients that are gentle on the skin.
- Effectively repels mosquitoes and other insects, even in high-infestation areas.
- Family-friendly and safe for use on children and pets.
- Has a pleasant, refreshing scent that customers love.
- Easy to spray with a durable bottle design.
Cons
- Some users may need to reapply more frequently for full effectiveness.
- A few users experienced issues with the spray mechanism not working consistently.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Active Ingredient Ingredients: Pure Essential Oils Of *Cymbopogon Nardus (Citronella) 5%, *Cymbopogon Schoenanthus (Lemongrass) .5%, *Cedrus Atlantica (Cedar) .5%
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Organic Bug Spray for Body - Sky Organics
Welpr Rating
4.85
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$19.95
Product Details
- Formulated with a unique blend of citronella, lemongrass, and six other organic oils for natural insect repelling.
- Free from DEET, alcohol, and harmful additives like parabens, phthalates, and sulfates.
- Offers a plant-based solution that is vegan and cruelty-free, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors safely.
- Can be used to protect against insects by applying directly to exposed skin.
- Designed to complement a clean beauty routine with minimal and purposeful ingredients.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Effectively keeps mosquitoes at bay, even for those who are usually mosquito magnets.
- Crafted from organic ingredients, prioritizing safety and avoiding harmful chemicals.
- Boasts a pleasant, natural scent that many users enjoy.
- Quick-drying formula that doesn't stain clothing.
- Great option for those wanting a DEET-free alternative.
Cons
- Some users may find that it needs frequent reapplication, especially in highly infested areas.
- Strong scent might be overpowering for those sensitive to smells or if ventilation is limited.
- Bottle and spray mechanism may not be user-friendly, potentially leading to leaks.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Glycine Soja (Soybean) Oil* 23%, Ricinus Communis (Castor) Oil* 10%, Cymbopogon Nardus (Citronella) Oil* 7%, Cymbopogon Citratus (Lemongrass) Oil* 4%, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf Oil* 3%, Cedrus Altantica (Cedarwood) Oil* 2%, Mentha Piperita (Peppermint) Leaf Oil* 2%, Water 49%
Save 10% on purchases on Primally Pure.
Nature Spray - Primally Pure
Welpr Rating
4.8
/5
Discount Code
WELPR
Certifications
Highlights
Est. Price
$22.00
Product Details
- DEET-free and made with organic ingredients
- Powered by plant-based essential oils bugs hate: Citronella, Cedarwood, Lemongrass, Rosemary, Geranium, and Peppermint
- Provides effective, natural protection against mosquitoes
- Gentle on skin and safe for the whole family
- Perfect for outdoor adventures, travel, or everyday use
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Effective and safe bug spray suitable for the whole family.
- Natural ingredients with a fresh, pleasant scent that is not overpowering.
- Trusted by users in bug-prone areas for reliable protection.
- Highly regarded for its gentle yet effective formula compared to conventional sprays.
Cons
- The bottle cap can be unscrewed easily, which may be a concern for households with young children.
Ingredients
Ingredients: Organic Witch Hazel, Organic Fractionated Coconut Oil, Organic Castor Oil, Essential Oils of Organic Citronella, Wildcrafted Cedarwood, Organic Lemongrass, Organic Rosemary, Organic Geranium, Organic Peppermint and Wildcrafted Wintergreen, Organic Grape Alcohol
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
TerraShield Essential Oil Outdoor Blend - Doterra
Welpr Rating
4.75
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$20.00
Product Details
- Acts as an effective, natural barrier against outdoor elements.
- Contains naturally sourced ingredients like citronella and lemongrass for a refreshing scent.
- Provides skin-soothing benefits due to the use of high-quality essential oils.
- Safe for use by everyone in the family when applied topically.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Highly effective at repelling mosquitoes without harsh chemicals.
- Pleasant scent that many users appreciate, with no sticky residue.
- A little goes a long way, making the bottle last for months.
- Can be used safely on pets, providing versatility and peace of mind.
- Non-toxic alternative to DEET, aligning with a health-conscious lifestyle.
Cons
- Some individuals found the scent strong when applied around neck/shoulders.
- Users who are accustomed to DEET may find it requires more frequent reapplication.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Ylang Ylang Flower, Nootka Wood, Cedarwood Wood, Catnip, Lemon Eucalyptus, Litsea Fruit, Arborvitae Wood Essential Oils And Vanilla Bean Absolute In A Base Of Fractionated Coconut Oil And Tamanu Seed Oil
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Buzz Away Extreme Insect Repellent - Quantum Health
Welpr Rating
4.7
/5
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$16.67
Product Details
- Protects against mosquitos and ticks, providing essential outdoor relief.
- Ideal for weekend trips, camping, and travel.
- Made with a unique blend of essential oils for a pleasant fragrance.
- Family and environment-friendly with a plant-based formula free from DEET and toxins.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Highly effective at repelling mosquitoes, flies, and other insects.
- Non-toxic and DEET-free, suitable for health-conscious users.
- Safe for use on sensitive skin and pets, offering relief without irritation.
- Cruelty-free product, aligning with ethical consumer values.
- Made from natural ingredients and essential oils, avoiding harsh chemicals.
Cons
- Some users may find the smell unpleasant or overpowering.
- Needs frequent reapplication, especially in highly infested areas.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Castor Oil (8%), Geranium Oil (6%), Soybean Oil (3%), Cedarwood Oil (1.5%), Citronella Oil (1.0%), Peppermint Oil (0.5%), Lemongrass Oil (0.25%), Inert Ingredients: (79.75% Total): Purified Water, Coconut Oil, Glycerin, Lecithin, Sodium Bicarbonate, Citric Acid, Vitamin E, Wintergreen Oil
Our Product Rating System
First, Camille (co-creator of Welpr) hand picks cleaner product options from a variety of sources.
Next, we collect information about each product's safety, consumer satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing.
Finally, we run all this information through an algorithm that calculates the Welpr Rating.
Welpr Rating:
5.0/5
Part 1: Product safety
We evaluate safety information from 3rd party organizations (e.g. EWG, Made Safe, etc.). Instead of relying solely on any one of these companies for safety information, we assess all of them.
Part 2: Consumer satisfaction
We scour the web for consumer ratings and reviews to verify products are not only cleaner options, but also effective. Products can either be Above Average, Average, or Below average for their respective category (e.g. cleaning products).
Part 3: Ethics & Environment
When you buy a product, you’re supporting that company with your dollars. We believe it’s important to support ethical companies, so we pool together certifications that verify a company's ethics and environmental impact.
Common Harmful Chemicals in Bug Spray
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
Diethyltoluamide
DEET is a nearly colorless broad-spectrum insect repellent, used on humans, clothing, and horses. Most reports following DEET exposure highlight skin-related issues such as irritation and contact dermatitis, with more severe reactions like blistering and weeping skin areas under specific conditions. Rare cases of toxic encephalopathy have been reported following ingestion or dermal application, and DEET has shown a genotoxic response in specific tests. Animal studies revealed various adverse reactions, including renal lesions in rats and clinical signs in dogs. In terms of ecotoxicity studies, DEET had significant effects on fish, including changes in red blood cells and mean corpuscular volume.
Phthalate
Phthalates, linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, and cancer, are banned in the European Union but remain prevalent in U.S. cosmetics. They are widely used in personal care products, such as nail polish, fragrances, and eyelash glue and other products. A significant loophole allows phthalates to be added to fragrances without disclosure. Health concerns include endocrine disruption, developmental and reproductive toxicity, and potential carcinogenicity.
Sources:
Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Phthalates, Product Profile: Hand Sanitizer, Phthalates in Cosmetics, Phthalates in cosmetic and personal care products: concentrations and possible dermal exposure, A Survey of Phthalates and Parabens in Personal Care Products from the United States and Its Implications for Human Exposure, Phthalates Factsheet, BPA and Phthalates: Chemicals found in our homes
d-Limonene
d-Limonene is a liquid with a lemon-like smell, often used as a solvent to substitute for more volatile and toxic organic solvents. When it comes into contact with air, it can oxidize, and this oxidized form is a known skin sensitizer, capable of irritating skin and eyes. The combination of d-limonene and l-limonene is known as limonene or dipentene. The estimated lethal dose for humans is between 0.5 to 5 g/kg, and studies have shown that it can cause diarrhea and liver effects when ingested in high doses.
Authors
Camille May, Product Curator
Olushola M. Awoyemi, Medical Reviewer
