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10 Best Fly Repellents 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Sawyer Products SP874 Picaridin Insect Repellent Spray, 20% Picaridin, 4-Ounce, 1-Pack

The Sawyer Products SP874 Picaridin Insect Repellent Spray is a strong contender in the fly-repellent category. The active ingredient, 20% Picaridin, is highly effective at keeping flies at bay for up to 8 hours, making it suitable for extended outdoor activities like camping, hiking, and backyard gatherings. Additionally, it offers up to 12 hours of protection against mosquitoes and ticks, which is impressive for an insect repellent.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,123
Active Ingredients
Formulation
Duration of Protection

Most important from
47081 reviews

Active Ingredients
Picaridin offers similar efficacy to DEET without harming plastics or synthetic materials, making it a safer and more pleasant option.
Formulation
Fragrance-free and non-greasy formula ensures a comfortable experience without the typical chemical smell.
Duration of Protection
Provides up to 8 hours of protection against flies, and up to 14 hours against mosquitoes and ticks.
Safety and Skin Sensitivity
Gentle on the skin, making it suitable for both adults and children.
#2
10.0 score

Durvet Permethrin 10%, 8oz

Durvet Permethrin 10%, 8oz is a highly effective insecticide concentrate, particularly suited for livestock and household use. The active ingredient, Permethrin, at a concentration of 10%, ensures a rapid kill of a wide range of pests including flies, fleas, ticks, and mites. This broad spectrum efficacy makes it versatile for use on various animals such as dairy and beef cattle, horses, sheep, goats, dogs, swine, and poultry, as well as in homes and livestock premises.

Rating
10.0
Active Ingredients
Duration of Protection

Most important from
6293 reviews

Active Ingredients
This permethrin drops bed bugs fast and is a wide spectrum pesticide that kills basically any insect that is crawling.
Duration of Protection
Save your money and go with this stuff. It's effective while wet but has next to no residual power once it dries.
#3
9.8 score

Absorbine UltraShield EX 32oz Sprayer Insecticide, Kills & Repels Flies, Mosquitoes, Ticks, Fleas, Lice, Use on Horses, Dogs, Premises

The Absorbine UltraShield EX 32oz Sprayer Insecticide is a robust fly-repellent suitable for use on horses, dogs, and premises. One of its main strengths is its ability to kill and repel over 70 species of pests, including flies, mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas. The formulation is water-based and ready-to-use, eliminating the need for mixing, which can be a real time-saver.

Rating
9.8
Active Ingredients
Formulation
Duration of Protection

Most important from
3296 reviews

Active Ingredients
This product is an effective 'industry secret' for flea and tick control in animals that you can't regularly get a topical onto. Safe for canines, but be careful not to use on or around felines due to permethrin.
Formulation
My barn has never been so bug-free, and my horses actually want to be sprayed. The sunblock and lanolin make them shiny and sleek.
Duration of Protection
In five years, I have never had to pull a tick off my dog, nor worry about fleas. It repels mosquitoes too!
Safety and Skin Sensitivity
Dog stopped itching immediately after applying the spray. Fleas dropped off like never seen before. My six labs and two Chihuahuas are so happy now.

Top 10 Best Fly Repellents 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Sawyer Products SP874 Picaridin Insect Repellent Spray, 20% Picaridin, 4-Ounce, 1-Pack

Active Ingredients: 20% Picaridin
Formulation: Liquid
Duration of Protection: 8 hours for flies, 12 hours mosquitoes
Safety and Skin Sensitivity: Fragrance-free, non-greasy, dries quickly
Scent: Unscented

Chosen by 1123 this week

Durvet Permethrin 10%, 8oz

Active Ingredients: Permethrin
Formulation: Liquid concentrate
Safety and Skin Sensitivity: Safe around animals and humans
Environmental Impact: Harmful to aquatic life
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Buying Guide for the Best Fly Repellents

Choosing the right fly repellent can make a significant difference in your comfort and health, especially during the warmer months when flies are most active. Flies are not only annoying but can also carry diseases, so it's important to select a repellent that is effective and safe for your needs. Here are some key specifications to consider when choosing a fly repellent, along with explanations to help you make an informed decision.
Active IngredientsThe active ingredients in a fly repellent determine its effectiveness. Common ingredients include DEET, picaridin, and natural oils like citronella or eucalyptus. DEET is highly effective and long-lasting, making it suitable for areas with heavy fly infestations. Picaridin is also effective and has a milder scent. Natural oils are less potent but are a good choice for those looking for a chemical-free option. Consider your sensitivity to chemicals and the level of fly activity in your area when choosing the active ingredient.
FormulationFly repellents come in various formulations such as sprays, lotions, wipes, and wearable devices. Sprays are easy to apply and cover large areas quickly, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Lotions provide a more controlled application and are less likely to be inhaled. Wipes are convenient for on-the-go use and can be easily packed in a bag. Wearable devices like bracelets or clip-ons offer a hands-free option. Choose a formulation that fits your lifestyle and the specific situations in which you'll need protection.
Duration of ProtectionThe duration of protection indicates how long the repellent will be effective after application. This can range from a few hours to all-day protection. Products with DEET or picaridin typically offer longer-lasting protection, while natural repellents may need to be reapplied more frequently. If you plan to be outdoors for extended periods, opt for a repellent with a longer duration to avoid frequent reapplication. For shorter activities, a product with a shorter duration may suffice.
Safety and Skin SensitivitySafety is crucial, especially if you have sensitive skin or are using the repellent on children. Some repellents can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Look for products that are dermatologically tested and labeled as safe for sensitive skin. Natural repellents are generally gentler but may be less effective. Always perform a patch test before full application to ensure you do not have an adverse reaction. Consider the age and skin sensitivity of all users when selecting a repellent.
ScentThe scent of a fly repellent can affect your comfort and willingness to use it. Some repellents have a strong chemical odor, which can be off-putting. Others are formulated to be odorless or have a pleasant fragrance. If you are sensitive to smells or plan to use the repellent in social settings, opt for a product with a mild or pleasant scent. Natural repellents often have a more agreeable smell due to their essential oil content.
Environmental ImpactConsider the environmental impact of the fly repellent you choose. Some chemical repellents can be harmful to the environment, particularly if they contain ingredients that are toxic to aquatic life. Natural repellents are generally more eco-friendly but may require more frequent application. If environmental sustainability is important to you, look for products that are biodegradable and free from harmful chemicals. Check the packaging for eco-friendly certifications or claims.

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