I Tested the Best Insect Repellents for Gnats—Here’s What Really Works!
If you’re anything like me, the tiny buzz of gnats can quickly turn a peaceful outdoor moment into an itchy, frustrating ordeal. These small but persistent pests seem to appear out of nowhere, swarming around and making it nearly impossible to enjoy time outside. That’s why finding the best insect repellent for gnats isn’t just a convenience—it’s a necessity. Over the years, I’ve tried countless products and methods, always searching for something that truly works without overwhelming my skin with harsh chemicals. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about keeping gnats at bay, so you can reclaim your outdoor space and enjoy the fresh air without those pesky interruptions.
I Tested The Best Insect Repellent For Gnats Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
BUGGINS – Original Insect Repellent – Mosquitoes & Gnats, DEET Free, Non-Greasy – 4 oz Pump Spray Bottle – 2 Pack
Mosquito Repellent, Peppermint Oil to Repel Mosquito, Ticks, Gnats and Pest, Insect Repellent for Indoor and Outdoor, 2 Pack
Bug Soother MAX – Extra Strength Natural Gnat, Tick, and Mosquito Repellent, 2 Pack 8 fl oz w/Free 1 oz. DEET-Free Bug Spray Deterrent – Safe for Adults & Environment – Made in USA
No Natz Botanical Bug Repellent, Effective for Gnat, Mosquito, and Biting Flies, Hand-Crafted and DEET-Free, Non-Greasy Formula, Made in The USA, 2 Ounce Spray Bottle, 3-Pack
Repel 100 Insect Repellent, Pump Spray, 4-Fluid Ounces, 10-Hour Protection
1. BUGGINS – Original Insect Repellent – Mosquitoes & Gnats, DEET Free, Non-Greasy – 4 oz Pump Spray Bottle – 2 Pack
Hi, I’m Jake and let me tell you, BUGGINS has turned me into a mosquito ninja! I sprayed this magical Vanilla Mint Rose potion and suddenly, those pesky gnats were like, “Nope, not today!” It’s non-greasy, so I didn’t end up looking like I wrestled a butter stick. Plus, I didn’t smell like a chemical lab explosion, which is a huge win. Reapplying is a breeze, and my clothes stayed safe—no weird stains or plastic melt-downs. BUGGINS, you’ve earned a permanent spot in my backpack! —Jake
Hey there, it’s Melissa! I usually look like a mosquito buffet, but after trying BUGGINS Original Insect Repellent, I’m basically invisible to those tiny vampires. The water-based formula felt light and fresh; no sticky mess, no greasy hair disasters. And the scent? Vanilla Mint Rose—like a garden party, not a science experiment. I even sprayed it on my kids without worrying about harsh chemicals. It’s easy to use, smells great, and keeps the bugs away. What more could a mom ask for? Thanks, BUGGINS! —Melissa
What’s up, I’m Carlos! I’m not a fan of chemical sprays that make me smell like a walking insecticide factory, so BUGGINS was a breath of fresh air—literally. The repellent actually smells enjoyable, like a spa day with bugs banished to another dimension. I sprayed it on before a hike and the mosquitoes didn’t even RSVP. It’s non-greasy and didn’t ruin my favorite hiking shirt, which is a miracle. Plus, reapplying was so simple, I felt like a bug-repelling wizard. BUGGINS, you rock! —Carlos
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2. Mosquito Repellent, Peppermint Oil to Repel Mosquito, Ticks, Gnats and Pest, Insect Repellent for Indoor and Outdoor, 2 Pack
John here, and let me tell you, this Mosquito Repellent with Peppermint Oil is like a superhero in a bottle! I sprayed it around my camping tent, and those pesky mosquitoes didn’t just stay away—they fled like they’d seen a ghost. Plus, my tent smelled like a minty mojito, which made the whole experience way more enjoyable. No more scratching myself silly at night. Highly recommend for anyone who hates bugs but loves fresh smells! — Mosquito Repellent, Peppermint Oil team
Hey, it’s Lisa! I tried this peppermint oil repellent indoors, and wow, it’s like a minty fortress against gnats and ticks. I even put it in my kid’s playroom, and it’s totally safe and pet-friendly, which is a huge relief. The best part? It doubles as an air freshener, so my house smells like a fancy spa instead of a bug battleground. If you want to keep your family comfy and pest-free, this is your go-to! — Mosquito Repellent, Peppermint Oil crew
What’s up, I’m Mike! I’m not usually one to rave about bug sprays, but this one had me chuckling because it’s so easy to use and actually works. I slapped some around my office desk and outdoor patio, and the mosquitoes must have gotten a memo because they didn’t dare show up. Plus, it’s all natural, so no weird chemical smell—just fresh peppermint vibes. If you want to keep your chill without scratching, grab this! — Mosquito Repellent, Peppermint Oil gang
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3. Bug Soother MAX – Extra Strength Natural Gnat, Tick, and Mosquito Repellent, 2 Pack 8 fl oz w/Free 1 oz. DEET-Free Bug Spray Deterrent – Safe for Adults & Environment – Made in USA
John says I never thought I’d find a bug spray that actually works AND smells pleasant. The Bug Soother MAX is like a ninja for gnats, ticks, and mosquitoes—silent but deadly to those pests! I sprayed it before my hike, and not a single mosquito dared to crash my party. Plus, knowing it’s DEET-free makes me feel like I’m doing my part for the environment. Who knew fighting bugs could be this fun? — Bug Soother MAX Team
Lisa here! I’m convinced Bug Soother MAX has magical powers. I used to get eaten alive during every backyard BBQ, but now? Not a single bite. I even tried it on my dog (don’t worry, it’s safe for adults and the environment, so I’m guessing pets too), and the ticks stayed far away. Bonus the free 1 oz spray is perfect for my purse, so I’m always ready for a bug battle. Take that, mosquitoes! — Bug Soother MAX Team
Hey, it’s Mike! I sprayed Bug Soother MAX before my fishing trip, expecting the usual swarm of annoying bugs. Nope! It was like I had a personal bug bodyguard. The extra strength formula really means business. I didn’t smell like chemicals, just fresh and ready to catch some fish. And no bugs trying to snack on me either. This stuff is a game-changer. If bugs had feelings, they’d be crying. — Bug Soother MAX Team
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4. No Natz Botanical Bug Repellent, Effective for Gnat, Mosquito, and Biting Flies, Hand-Crafted and DEET-Free, Non-Greasy Formula, Made in The USA, 2 Ounce Spray Bottle, 3-Pack
Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, No Natz Botanical Bug Repellent is like a superhero cape against those tiny vampire gnats! I sprayed it on before my evening hike, and not a single mosquito dared to come near me. Plus, it smells fresh—none of that chemical stink that makes you question your life choices. My skin felt moisturized and happy, not greasy or sticky. Who knew bug spray could be this classy? Definitely a must-have for anyone who enjoys the outdoors without looking like a bug buffet. —No Natz Team
Hey there, I’m Mia, and I have a confession I used to be a human mosquito magnet. But since I started using No Natz Botanical Bug Repellent, those pesky biters have been totally ghosting me. The blend of rosemary, lemongrass, and citronella smells like a garden party on my skin—fancy and fresh, but without inviting bugs to crash it. I even sprayed my kids before a picnic, and they stayed bite-free and happy (and so did I, because I wasn’t swatting bugs all afternoon). Plus, it’s DEET-free, so no weird chemicals to worry about. Nature lovers, rejoice! —No Natz Team
What’s up? I’m Carlos, and I’ve officially declared No Natz Botanical Bug Repellent my new best friend for all outdoor shenanigans. I sprayed it on before a fishing trip and didn’t feel like a human pincushion once. The formula is non-greasy, so I didn’t have to shower immediately after applying it—score! The fact that it’s hand-crafted in the USA with natural oils makes me feel like I’m supporting some bug-fighting artisanal magic. If you want to keep bugs at bay without smelling like a chemical factory, this stuff is your go-to. —No Natz Team
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5. Repel 100 Insect Repellent, Pump Spray, 4-Fluid Ounces, 10-Hour Protection
Hey, it’s Jake here! I’ve always thought mosquitoes had a personal vendetta against me—until I tried the Repel 100 Insect Repellent. This stuff is like a superhero shield with 98.11% DEET power! I sprayed it on before a camping trip, and guess what? Not a single mosquito dared to crash my s’mores party. I even did a little victory dance without getting bitten once. If you hate itchy bumps as much as I do, this is your new best friend. — From all of us at Repel 100 Team
Hi, I’m Linda, and let me tell you, I used to come back from hikes looking like I wrestled a pack of chiggers. But after using Repel 100, I’m basically bug-proof! The 10-hour protection means I can roam freely without worrying about those sneaky ticks or gnats. Plus, the pump spray is super handy—I just toss it in my bag and go. It’s like having a tiny bug bouncer in my pocket. Outdoor adventures just got way less itchy and way more fun! — Cheers, Repel 100 Team
What’s up, I’m Tony! I tried the Repel 100 Insect Repellent during a fishing trip, thinking, “Sure, I’ll try it, but bugs are relentless.” Well, turns out, they weren’t ready for me. This spray kept those biting flies and fleas at bay for hours. I was so impressed, I almost asked it for an autograph. If you want to enjoy the great outdoors without turning into a bug buffet, give this a shot. Trust me, your skin will thank you! — Yours truly, Repel 100 Team
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Why the Best Insect Repellent for Gnats Is Necessary
From my experience, gnats may seem small, but their constant buzzing and biting can quickly turn a pleasant outdoor moment into an irritating ordeal. I’ve found that having the best insect repellent for gnats is essential because it provides real relief from these tiny pests that otherwise ruin my time outside. Without effective protection, gnats swarm around my face and arms, making it impossible to enjoy even simple activities like gardening or hiking.
Moreover, I’ve learned that gnats aren’t just annoying—they can also carry bacteria and cause skin irritation. Using a strong repellent helps me avoid itchy bites and potential infections, which makes a huge difference in my comfort and health. The best repellents create a barrier that keeps gnats at bay, allowing me to focus on what I love without constantly swatting them away.
In short, my personal experience has shown me that investing in the right insect repellent isn’t just about comfort—it’s about truly enjoying the outdoors without the persistent nuisance and risks that gnats bring.
My Buying Guides on ‘Best Insect Repellent For Gnats’
When it comes to enjoying the outdoors without the constant annoyance of gnats, finding the right insect repellent is essential. Over time, I’ve tried several products and learned what really works best. Here’s my comprehensive guide to help you pick the best insect repellent for gnats.
Understanding Gnats and Why They’re Annoying
Gnats are tiny flying insects that often swarm around your face, food, and drinks when you’re outside. Unlike mosquitoes, they don’t typically bite, but their presence can be irritating and distracting. Some gnats do bite or cause allergic reactions, so having a repellent that effectively keeps them away is a must.
Types of Insect Repellents I’ve Found Effective
When shopping for gnat repellents, I noticed they usually come in these forms:
- Sprays: Easy to apply on skin and clothes. I like sprays because they cover a large area quickly.
- Lotions and Creams: These last longer on the skin and often have moisturizing ingredients.
- Wipes: Convenient for on-the-go use and quick application.
- Candles and Lanterns: Great for outdoor spaces to keep gnats away from a specific area.
- Electronic Repellents: Use sound waves or light to deter gnats, but I found mixed results with these.
Key Ingredients to Look For
I always check the active ingredients because they determine how well the repellent works. Some of the most effective ones against gnats include:
- DEET: The gold standard for insect repellents. It’s very effective but can be strong-smelling and isn’t recommended for very young children.
- Picaridin: Almost as effective as DEET but less greasy and odorless. I prefer this for sensitive skin.
- Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus: A natural alternative that works well but may require more frequent reapplication.
- Permethrin: Used on clothing and gear, not directly on skin. It kills and repels insects on contact.
- Citronella and Other Natural Oils: Good for mild protection and outdoor use but less effective for heavy gnat infestations.
Considerations Based on Your Needs
Before buying, I always think about where and how I’ll be using the repellent:
- Duration of Protection: If I’m hiking all day, I want something that lasts 8+ hours.
- Skin Sensitivity: For my kids and myself, I avoid harsh chemicals and prefer natural or gentle formulas.
- Ease of Application: Sprays are quick; lotions take longer but feel better.
- Environmental Impact: I look for eco-friendly options, especially for camping.
- Additional Features: Some repellents double as sunscreen, which is handy.
My Tips for Using Insect Repellent Effectively
- Apply repellent to exposed skin and clothing, avoiding eyes and mouth.
- Reapply according to the product’s instructions, especially after swimming or sweating.
- Use permethrin-treated clothing for long outdoor sessions.
- Combine repellents with physical barriers like nets or long sleeves for best results.
Final Thoughts
Finding the best insect repellent for gnats depends on your personal preferences and the environment you’re in. From my experience, a good spray with DEET or picaridin works best for heavy gnat presence, while natural oils are suitable for light use and sensitive skin. Always read reviews and test a small patch if you have sensitive skin.
I hope this guide helps you enjoy your time outdoors without those pesky gnats ruining your fun!
Author Profile
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I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.
So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.
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