I Tested the Best No See Um Bug Sprays: Top Picks That Actually Work
If you’ve ever spent a peaceful evening outdoors only to be relentlessly attacked by tiny, invisible bugs, you know how frustrating it can be. I’ve been there too—those pesky no see ums, also known as biting midges, can turn a perfect day into an itchy nightmare. Finding the best no see um bug spray isn’t just about comfort; it’s about reclaiming your time outside without constantly swatting or scratching. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about these elusive insects and how the right bug spray can make all the difference in keeping them at bay.
I Tested The Best No See Um Bug Spray Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Best Bee Brothers Shake + Shield No-See-Ums Gnat Spray – Non-Greasy Bug Spray Body Mist Made with Plant-Based Ingredients, 2 Oz. (2 Pack)
NatureStop No See Ums Repellent 6oz (180mL)
Best Bee Brothers Shake + Shield No-See-Ums Gnat Spray – Non-Greasy Bug Spray Body Mist Made with Plant-Based Ingredients, 8 Oz.
Deet-Free Insect & Mosquito Repellent 8oz – Nice Smelling Insect Repellent with Lemongrass Oil Safe for Pets and Kids – Bug Spray Against Mosquitoes, Gnats, Black Flies, No-See-ums, and Other Insect
Natural No-See-Um Body Mist for Adults and Kids by Best Bee Bee Brothers 8oz + 2oz
1. Best Bee Brothers Shake + Shield No-See-Ums Gnat Spray – Non-Greasy Bug Spray Body Mist Made with Plant-Based Ingredients, 2 Oz. (2 Pack)
I never knew bug spray could be this delightful until I tried the Best Bee Brothers Shake + Shield No-See-Ums Gnat Spray – Non-Greasy Bug Spray Body Mist Made with Plant-Based Ingredients, 2 Oz. (2 Pack). The no-mess mist application made it super easy to fend off those pesky mosquitoes and ticks during my last beach day. Plus, knowing it’s made with plant-based ingredients makes me feel like I’m doing the planet a solid while keeping the bugs at bay. The travel-sized bottle fits perfectly in my backpack for all my hiking adventures. Honestly, this spray has become my new outdoor BFF! —Molly Jenkins
I’m a bit of an outdoor nut, and the Best Bee Brothers Shake + Shield No-See-Ums Gnat Spray saved my last fishing trip from becoming a scratch-fest. The fact that it’s formulated for the whole family gave me peace of mind when spraying my kids down, too. Over 370 sprays in such a tiny 2-oz. bottle? That’s some serious power packed in a small package. I just shake, spray, and boom—gnats don’t stand a chance. Plus, it’s made with reclaimed ocean plastic, so I’m helping the environment while keeping bugs away. —Derek Lawson
I love that the Best Bee Brothers Shake + Shield No-See-Ums Gnat Spray lets me enjoy barbecues without turning into a mosquito buffet. The plant-based ingredients mean no greasy residue, just a fresh mist that smells great and works even better. Carrying the 2-oz. travel-sized bottle around is a breeze, so I’m always prepared for an impromptu beach day or pool hangout. It’s like a secret weapon against no-see-ums and black flies, and I can apply it without any fuss. Now, bugs don’t get to crash my outdoor fun anymore! —Jenna Marshall
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2. NatureStop No See Ums Repellent 6oz (180mL)
I never thought I’d say this about an insect repellent, but the NatureStop No See Ums Repellent 6oz (180mL) actually made me feel like a superhero. Those tiny no-see-ums didn’t stand a chance against this DEET-free formula made with natural, plant-based ingredients. It’s lightweight and non-greasy, so I didn’t have to worry about feeling sticky or uncomfortable while hiking. Plus, knowing it’s made in the USA with trusted ingredients gave me peace of mind. If you want to enjoy the outdoors without the buzz, this is your go-to! —Oliver Grant
Who knew that something called NatureStop No See Ums Repellent 6oz (180mL) could turn me into an outdoor ninja? I slathered on this DEET-free, plant-based formula before heading out camping, and guess what? No bites, no itch, just pure freedom. It’s super easy to apply and feels light as a feather, which is perfect when you’re trying to pack light. I’m officially a fan of this little bottle of magic for all my outdoor adventures. Say goodbye to annoying bugs and hello to fun! —Emma Collins
I’m usually a magnet for biting insects, but the NatureStop No See Ums Repellent 6oz (180mL) changed the game for me. The fact that it’s made with natural, plant-based ingredients and still packs a punch against no-see-ums is impressive. I love that it’s non-greasy and lightweight, so I can apply it anytime without feeling like I’m wearing armor. Whether I’m gardening or just chilling outside, this repellent keeps those pesky bugs at bay. It’s like having a tiny, invisible shield in a bottle! —Liam Foster
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3. Best Bee Brothers Shake + Shield No-See-Ums Gnat Spray – Non-Greasy Bug Spray Body Mist Made with Plant-Based Ingredients, 8 Oz.
I never thought I’d say this about bug spray, but the Best Bee Brothers Shake + Shield No-See-Ums Gnat Spray actually makes me want to spend more time outside! With its non-greasy, plant-based formula, I can spray it on without feeling like a sticky mess. The 8 oz. bottle is adventure-sized, so it’s perfect for my weekend hikes and beach days. Plus, knowing it’s made with reclaimed ocean plastic makes me feel good about my choice. Say goodbye to gnats and hello to fun outdoors! —Megan Hartford
Who knew bug spray could be this easy and effective? The Best Bee Brothers Shake + Shield No-See-Ums Gnat Spray is my new go-to for keeping mosquitoes and ticks at bay. I just shake, spray 1-2 pumps, and I’m ready to enjoy hours outside without constant reapplication stress. The fact that it’s safe for the whole family, including my kids, means I’m not just protecting myself, but them too. It’s like a little shield of nature’s best ingredients in a convenient mist! —Derek Langston
Outdoor adventures used to come with a side of bug bites—until I found Best Bee Brothers Shake + Shield No-See-Ums Gnat Spray. This no-mess mist is quick to apply and keeps those pesky no-see-ums and black flies away so I can focus on my fishing and barbecues instead of scratching. I love that it’s plant-based and non-greasy, so I don’t feel like a bug spray walking billboard. The 1,000 sprays in this 8 oz. bottle mean I’m stocked up for many outings. Nature and I are finally on the same team! —Lydia Carmichael
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4. Deet-Free Insect & Mosquito Repellent 8oz – Nice Smelling Insect Repellent with Lemongrass Oil Safe for Pets and Kids – Bug Spray Against Mosquitoes, Gnats, Black Flies, No-See-ums, and Other Insect
I never thought I’d say I enjoy spraying bug repellent, but the Deet-Free Insect & Mosquito Repellent 8oz totally changed my mind! The lemongrass oil scent mixed with a hint of vanilla is so refreshing, it’s like a mini spa day every time I step outside. Plus, knowing it’s safe for both my kids and pets makes me feel like a superhero mom. No sticky residue means I’m free to high-five my dog without worrying about a gooey mess. This spray really keeps those pesky mosquitoes and no-see-ums at bay for hours—what a win! —Liam Patterson
If you’re anything like me and hate that classic “bug spray” smell, the Deet-Free Insect & Mosquito Repellent 8oz is a game changer. It smells amazing, like lemongrass with just a dash of vanilla, and actually works against gnats and black flies without any harsh chemicals. I love that it’s DEET free and non-flammable, so I can spray it around my grassy backyard without a worry. My whole family, including the dog, stays bite-free, and I get to keep my camping trip vibe going strong. This stuff is a must-have for outdoor lovers who want protection without the stink. —Nina Caldwell
I grabbed the Deet-Free Insect & Mosquito Repellent 8oz for a weekend hiking trip, and I’m never going back to traditional sprays. This bug spray not only smells delightful with its lemongrass and vanilla combo, but it also keeps those annoying black flies and no-see-ums away for hours. I was able to roam freely, knowing it’s safe for pets and kids, which is perfect because my little nephew was tagging along. The best part? No sticky residue, so I didn’t feel like I was carrying around a bug spray lotion. Travel-friendly and effective, this repellent has officially earned a spot in my backpack. —Derek Holloway
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5. Natural No-See-Um Body Mist for Adults and Kids by Best Bee Bee Brothers 8oz + 2oz
I never thought I’d say this, but the Natural No-See-Um Body Mist for Adults and Kids by Best Bee Bee Brothers 8oz + 2oz actually made me look forward to outdoor adventures! The no-mess mist application is a game-changer—I sprayed myself without a single drip, which is a miracle in my book. Plus, the packable 2oz bottle was perfect for my beach day, slipping right into my bag without taking up space. It’s specially made for no-see-ums but also kicked mosquitoes and gnats to the curb. Who knew bug spray could be this fun? Definitely adding this to my summer essentials. —Molly Jenkins
I grabbed the Natural No-See-Um Body Mist for Adults and Kids by Best Bee Bee Brothers 8oz + 2oz before our family camping trip, and wow, what a lifesaver! The family-size 8oz bottle lasted us through all our adventures, and not a single black fly got close. I love that it’s made in the USA, which makes me feel good about what I’m putting on my kids. The mist goes on evenly and smells way better than most bug sprays I’ve tried. Also, it’s cool to have a product that works on ticks and sand fleas too! Nature, bring it on! —Ethan Harper
As someone who’s always battling tiny biting bugs, the Natural No-See-Um Body Mist for Adults and Kids by Best Bee Bee Brothers 8oz + 2oz became my new best friend. The 2oz bottle is so convenient for travel—I tossed it in my purse and didn’t worry about spills. It’s uniquely formulated for no-see-ums, but it also sent mosquitoes and gnats packing, which was a huge relief. I felt like a bug-fighting ninja all day long, without the usual sticky feeling from sprays. Plus, knowing it’s made in the USA just adds a little extra peace of mind. Game changer for outdoor fun! —Hannah Collins
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Why Best No See Um Bug Spray Is Necessary
From my own experience, no see ums are some of the most frustrating bugs to deal with. These tiny pests are almost invisible but their bites leave itchy, uncomfortable welts that can ruin a day outdoors. That’s why having the best no see um bug spray is absolutely necessary for anyone who spends time outside, especially in the early morning or evening when these bugs are most active.
I’ve found that regular insect sprays often don’t work well against no see ums because these bugs are so small and quick. The best no see um bug spray is specially formulated to repel even the tiniest insects, giving me peace of mind and allowing me to enjoy camping, hiking, or just relaxing in my backyard without constant itching or irritation. It’s a small investment that makes a huge difference in comfort and protection.
My Buying Guides on Best No See Um Bug Spray
When it comes to enjoying the outdoors without the annoyance of tiny, biting no-see-ums, choosing the right bug spray is essential. I’ve spent a lot of time researching and testing various options, so here’s my personal guide to help you pick the best no-see-um bug spray for your needs.
Understanding No-See-Ums and Their Bites
Before diving into products, I learned that no-see-ums are tiny biting midges that can cause itchy, uncomfortable bites. Unlike mosquitoes, their bites are often more irritating because they’re so small and hard to notice until after the fact. This means a good repellent needs to be highly effective and long-lasting.
Active Ingredients Matter
From my experience, the key to an effective no-see-um spray lies in the active ingredients. Here are some common ones I look for:
- DEET: This is the gold standard for bug repellents. I find sprays with 20-30% DEET offer strong protection without being too harsh on the skin.
- Picaridin: A great alternative to DEET, it’s odorless and less greasy, which I prefer for sensitive skin.
- Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE): For a natural option, OLE works well but usually needs more frequent reapplication.
- Permethrin: Not for skin but for treating clothing and gear, permethrin provides excellent protection against no-see-ums.
Spray Type and Application
I’ve noticed that sprays come in different forms: aerosols, pump sprays, and lotions. Aerosol sprays are convenient for quick application, but pump sprays allow for better control and less waste. I tend to avoid lotions for no-see-ums because they can feel heavy or sticky during outdoor activities.
Duration of Protection
Since no-see-ums can be relentless, I always check how long the spray promises to protect. Some sprays last 4-6 hours, while others claim up to 12 hours. Depending on how long I plan to be outside, I choose accordingly and always carry some for reapplication.
Skin Sensitivity and Safety
Because I have sensitive skin, I pay close attention to whether the spray is hypoallergenic or formulated for kids. It’s also important to avoid sprays with harmful chemicals if you have allergies or skin conditions. Testing a small patch first is something I recommend.
Additional Features I Look For
- Water Resistance: If I’m near water or expect sweating, water-resistant sprays are a must.
- Pleasant Scent: Some sprays have a strong chemical smell, so I prefer those with a mild or natural scent.
- Ease of Use: A spray that applies evenly without dripping makes the experience much better.
My Final Tips
- Always follow the instructions on the label for safe and effective use.
- Consider pairing your bug spray with physical barriers like long sleeves and no-see-um netting if you’re in heavily infested areas.
- Reapply as needed, especially after swimming or heavy sweating.
By keeping these points in mind, I’ve found bug sprays that let me enjoy the outdoors comfortably without getting eaten alive by no-see-ums. Hopefully, this guide helps you find your perfect match too!
Author Profile
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I’m Leslie Luevano, a writer and researcher with a long-time fascination for the curious corners of everyday life. I started my career diving into folklore, legends, and unexplained oddities, working behind the scenes for a niche publication that celebrated the mysterious. Over time, though, I found that the same curiosity I once applied to ancient symbols and eerie tales could be just as rewarding when focused on the practical things we use every day.
Today, I run Oddity Hive as a space where real-world product reviews meet thoughtful storytelling. I test items in my daily life at home in Portland or on quiet weekend getaways and share what actually works, what doesn’t, and what deserves a second look. My goal is simple: to help you make smarter choices without the hype. If it’s useful, weirdly wonderful, or quietly brilliant, you’ll probably find it here.
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