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2024’s Best Tick Repellents for All Outdoor Types

By Updated:11 Mins Read

A detailed breakdown of the best tick repellents for you.

One significant concern that often arises for every outdoorsman, and woman, is the risk of tick bites. Ticks are not only a nuisance but can also be carriers of serious diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and others. With the growing awareness of these health risks, finding effective tick repellents that are considered safe for use has become a priority for hikers, campers, gardeners, hunters, fly fishermen, and anyone who loves spending time in nature. This article aims to guide you through the best tick repellents available on the market today, offering protection against these pesky and dangerous invaders. We’ll explore a variety of products, from sprays and lotions to topical clothing treatments, analyzing their effectiveness, safety, and user convenience. Whether you’re planning a wilderness adventure or simply want to safeguard your backyard activities, our comprehensive review will help you make an informed decision to keep ticks at bay and enjoy your outdoor experiences worry-free.

Most effective tick repellent for humans: BENS 30 Tick & Insect Repellent

With a 30% DEET formulation, BENS 30 Tick & Insect Repellent ($27.96) strikes a balance between potent insect-repelling capabilities and user safety, making it suitable for use in areas heavily infested with pests that can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease, Zika virus, and West Nile virus. Its water-based formula is designed to reduce the skin’s absorption of DEET, making it less greasy and more comfortable to wear compared to oil-based repellents. Ben’s 30 is appreciated for its long-lasting protection, providing several hours of relief from bites and pests. This repellent is a reliable choice for those venturing into the great outdoors, offering a strong defense against the discomfort and health risks posed by ticks and insects.

Pros

  • Extremely effective
  • Less money per FL OZ ($2.06) than most competition

Cons

  • Issues with pump & bottle is sometimes leaky.
  • Not made with 100% natural ingredients, contains DEET

Best natural/deet free tick repellent: Tick Ban by Yaya Organics 

The Yaya Tick Repellent ($27.99) is a product designed to offer natural and deet free protection against ticks, aiming to reduce the risk of tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease. This repellent is formulated to be applied to the skin or clothing, providing a barrier that repels ticks and sometimes other pests like mosquitoes. Its effectiveness is key for those spending time in areas where ticks are prevalent, such as forests, grassy fields, and even urban parks.

Pros

  • Plant-based ingredients.
  • Fresh scent
  • Dog friendly
  • Aluminum spray bottle (reusable & recyclable)

Cons

  • Effective, but not guaranteed tick eliminator.
  • Higher priced than competitors
  • Pump system could be better.

Best Tick Repellent for the yard: Thermacell Tick Control Tubes

ThermaCELL Tick Control Tubes ($58.20 for 24 Tubes) offers an innovative and environmentally friendly approach to managing tick populations in outdoor spaces. These tubes work by targeting ticks at one of their most vulnerable stages: the larvae. The tubes are filled with treated cotton that is designed to appeal to mice, a primary host for tick larvae. Mice collect the cotton for their nesting material, which then exposes the ticks feeding on the mice to the tick-killing agent. This method significantly reduces the tick population without the need for spraying chemicals over large areas, making it a safer alternative for pets, people, and the environment. Ideal for use in backyards, gardens, and near wooded areas, ThermaCELL Tick Control Tubes are a part of an integrated pest management strategy, aimed at reducing the risk of tick-borne diseases like Lyme disease. Their ease of use and effectiveness make them a popular choice among homeowners seeking to protect their outdoor spaces from ticks in a more natural and sustainable way.

Pros

  • Chemical free
  • Eco-friendly, sustainable
  • Kid & Dog friendly
  • Not cheap

Cons

  • As stated, attracts mice to parts of the yard

Best Tick Repellent for kids: Baby Bug Ban Spray and Wipe bundle by YaYa Organics

The Baby Bug Ban by Yaya Organics ($23.49) is a specially formulated insect repellent designed to provide gentle yet effective protection for babies and young children against various types of bugs, including mosquitoes, ticks, and flies. Understanding the delicate nature of young skin and the importance of avoiding harsh chemicals, Yaya Organics has developed this repellent with natural, plant-based ingredients that are known for their bug-repelling properties without the use of DEET or other potentially harmful chemicals. Baby Bug Ban is an appealing choice for parents and caregivers who prioritize not only effectiveness in preventing bug bites but also safety and healthiness in the products they use on their children.

Pros

  • Highest rated natural child repellent across 10+ sites
  • Made in the USA

Cons

  • Expensive per FL OZ compared to most competition.
  • As is the case with most natural repellents, some ticks aren’t affected.

Best Tick Repellent for hunters: Ranger Ready Picaridin 20% Tick & Insect Repellent (Scent Free)

Ranger Ready Scent Zero Tick Spray ($20.99) offers an effective solution for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone seeking protection against ticks other insects while staying scent free.  Unlike many insect repellents that rely on DEET, this product uses Picaridin 20% as its active ingredient, providing a safe, non-greasy, and odorless alternative that is suitable for use on both skin and clothing. Designed to offer up to 12 hours of protection against ticks and other biting insects, Ranger Ready Scent Zero is particularly appealing to hunters, hikers, and campers who require a scent-free option to avoid spooking wildlife. Its formula is also environmentally friendly, making it a conscientious choice for protecting oneself without adversely affecting the surrounding natural habitat.

Pros

  • Long lasting protection (12 hours)
  • Uses picaridin which is derived from natural ingredients and safer than DEET
  • Can go on clothing
  • Highest rated with most reviews on Amazon, Scheels, and others.

Cons

  • Spray mechanism could be better

An additional option for hunters is also in the clothing, Simms & Sitka have many clothes with bugstopper or insect yielding technology.  Start here.

 

 

Best Tick Repellent for Clothing: Sawyer Products Permethrin Clothing Insect Repellent

Sawyer Permethrin Clothing Insect Repellent Trigger Spray ($45.44) provides a robust line of defense against ticks, mosquitoes, and other pests, making it an indispensable tool for outdoor adventurers, travelers, and anyone exposed to insect-prone areas. This potent repellent is designed to be applied directly to clothing, gear, and tents rather than skin, bonding to fabric fibers to create a lasting barrier that remains effective through multiple washes, often up to six weeks or six washings. Utilizing permethrin, a synthetic chemical that mimics natural extracts from the chrysanthemum flower, Sawyer’s spray not only repels but can also kill ticks, mosquitoes, and over 55 other types of insects upon contact. This feature is particularly crucial for preventing diseases transmitted by these pests.  Odorless once dried and non-staining, it’s an easy-to-use, safe option for protecting oneself and one’s family during outdoor activities, without the unpleasant smells or residues associated with other insect repellents.

Pros

  • Strong protection without touching skin.

Cons

  • Not as effective in hotter months when we generally wear less clothing, ticks can still hop to legs and uncovered parts.
  • Stays on clothes even after washes (which makes it very durable but might be off-putting to some).

Best Homemade Tick Repellent: Check Out Kimberton’s Recipes

Kimberton Whole Foods has 3 blends that are the perfect for Tick Repellents and all the ingredients can be found at Wyndmere Naturals.

Best Tick Repellent Lotion: Proven Insect Repellent Lotion

Proven Insect Repellent Lotion ($13.99) is a highly effective skin-applied product designed to offer long-lasting protection against a wide range of biting insects, including mosquitoes, ticks, and flies. It contains Picaridin, a synthetic compound that is safe for use by adults and children, providing a non-greasy, odorless alternative to DEET-based repellents. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, and those living in insect-prone areas, Proven Lotion is praised for its gentle formulation that also moisturizes the skin, making it a dual-purpose solution for outdoor protection and skin care.

Pros

  • EPA registered.
  • DEET Free
  • Cheap, only $13.99

Cons

  • While it says odorless, it contains a slight smell that isn’t the best.
  • Greasy for a lotion.

FAQ’s

1. How do tick repellents work?

Tick repellents work by creating a barrier that deters ticks from attaching to the skin or clothing. Chemical repellents, such as DEET, picaridin, and IR3535, interfere with the tick’s ability to locate humans or animals by masking the scents that attract them. Natural repellents and home remedy’s, often made from essential oils like lemon eucalyptus, work similarly but may require more frequent application.

2. How often should I apply tick repellent?

The frequency of application can vary depending on the active ingredient and the product’s formulation. Generally, chemical repellents like DEET or picaridin last anywhere from 4 to 12 hours, while natural repellents may need reapplication every 2 to 4 hours. Always read the product label for specific guidance on reapplication intervals.

3. Can tick repellents be used on children?

Yes, but with caution. Repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, and oil of lemon eucalyptus can be used on children, but the concentration of the active ingredient and age restrictions may vary. For example, DEET products should contain no more than 30% DEET for children, and oil of lemon eucalyptus is not recommended for children under three years old. Always follow the product’s instructions when applying repellent on children.

4. Are tick repellents safe for pets?

Not all tick repellents safe for humans are safe for pets. Never use repellents containing DEET on pets, as it can be toxic to them. There are tick repellents specifically formulated for pets, including spot-on treatments, tick collars, and sprays. Always consult your veterinarian before using any tick repellent on your pet to ensure it’s safe and effective.

5. Can I use tick repellent on my clothing?

Yes, certain tick repellents are designed for use on clothing. Permethrin is a common ingredient in these products and is very effective at killing ticks on contact. It can be applied to clothing, shoes, camping gear, and other fabrics. Permethrin-treated clothing is considered safe for humans once dry, and the treatment remains effective through several washes.

6. What are some natural tick repellent options?

Natural tick repellents often contain essential oils like lemon eucalyptus, geranium, lavender, and cedarwood. While these natural options are generally safer for sensitive skin and eco-friendly, they may not offer the same level of protection or duration of effectiveness as chemical repellents. Regular reapplication is necessary for optimal protection.

7. How can I remove a tick if it attaches to me?

If a tick attaches to you, use fine-tipped tweezers to grasp the tick as close to the skin’s surface as possible. Pull upward with steady, even pressure, avoiding twisting or jerking the tick. After removal, clean the bite area and your hands with rubbing alcohol, an iodine scrub, or soap and water. If you are not concerned with contracting Lyme disease, you can dispose of the tick by flushing it down the toilet or placing it in alcohol. If you are concerned you may have contracted Lyme disease, especially if a bullseye rash appears, save the tick for testing and schedule a visit to your doctor immediately.  For more information, follow the guidance of reputable organizations like the Global Lyme Alliance.

Remember, the best way to protect yourself from ticks is to use a comprehensive approach that includes using repellents, wearing appropriate clothing, and performing regular tick checks after spending time in tick-infested areas.

Conclusion

In conclusion, protecting yourself and your loved ones from ticks is more crucial than ever, given the health risks associated with tick-borne diseases. With a plethora of options available on the market, choosing the right tick repellent can feel overwhelming. However, by considering the products listed in this article, you’re armed with information on some of the most effective solutions available today. Whether you prefer DEET, picaridin, natural alternatives, or clothing treatments, there’s a tick repellent out there that meets your needs and lifestyle. Remember, the best defense against ticks combines the use of effective repellents with smart outdoor practices, such as wearing protective clothing and performing regular tick checks. Stay informed, stay protected, and enjoy the beauty and adventure of the great outdoors with peace of mind, knowing you’re taking proactive steps to prevent tick bites and the diseases they may carry.

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NAO is the window into the outside environment for readers pursuing their passions in hunting, fishing, camping, canoeing/kayaking, rock climbing, and all pursuits in the outdoors on the North American continent. We will present stories, tips and techniques to be a better outdoorsman, and be completely at home in the outdoor environment for a day, week, or a lifetime.

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