Whether you are hiking, camping, or just enjoying your backyard, no-see-ums (biting midges) can quickly ruin the fun. They are incredibly small—often small enough to slip right through standard window screens—and their bites leave intensely itchy, red welts that can last for days.
Unlike mosquitoes, standard mosquito repellents often don’t work well on no-see-ums because these midges are so tiny. You need specialized repellents, and you need to treat both your skin and your gear to keep them away.
We have researched the top-rated options to find the best no-see-ums repellents on the market. For a complete overview of dealing with biting insects, see our Complete Mosquito Control Guide.
Quick Comparison: Top 5 No-See-Um Repellents
- Best Natural Spray: Bug Soother DEET-Free Natural Spray
- Best for Clothing & Gear: Sawyer SP657 Permethrin
- Best for Sensitive Skin: Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus
- Best Botanical Option: Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Natural
- Best Heavy-Duty DEET: Repel 94101 40% DEET Max
1. Bug Soother DEET-Free Natural Spray (Best Natural Spray)
This DEET-free spray repels no-see-ums and other insects such as biting gnats, black flies, and mosquitoes. It is safe for your skin and pets, making it an excellent choice for family use. Its natural ingredients ensure that you are not exposed to harsh chemicals.
- Pros: Natural ingredients safe for kids and pets; pleasant scent; versatile use for outdoor activities.
- Cons: Potentially more expensive than chemical-based options; requires frequent reapplication.
2. Sawyer SP657 Permethrin (Best for Clothing & Gear)
Sawyer SP657 uses permethrin to repel and kill no-see-ums, mosquitoes, and ticks. It is particularly effective when applied to clothing and gear, offering long-lasting protection (up to 6 weeks or 6 washings). This makes it a great choice for campers and hikers.
- Pros: Long-lasting protection for fabrics; odorless after drying; protects against Lyme disease and West Nile virus.
- Cons: Harmful to cats when wet; must only be used on gear and clothing, never directly on the skin.
3. Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus (Best for Sensitive Skin)
For decades, campers have sworn by Avon Skin So Soft. This specific product uses 20% Picaridin (DEET-free), which is highly effective against biting midges and mosquitoes. The addition of Vitamin E and Aloe moisturizes your skin, making it perfect for sensitive skin.
- Pros: DEET-free; non-greasy; pleasant scent; protects for up to 12 hours.
- Cons: May need to be reapplied more often than DEET-based repellents in heavily infested areas.
4. Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Natural (Best Botanical Option)
Repel’s Lemon Eucalyptus spray is a natural alternative to chemical repellents. It effectively keeps no-see-ums and other biting insects at bay. It is an ideal option for those who prefer natural products and want to avoid the potential side effects of chemical repellents.
- Pros: Plant-based and biodegradable; refreshing scent; gentle on sensitive skin.
- Cons: Requires frequent reapplication; some individuals might be sensitive to essential oils.
5. Repel 94101 40-Percent DEET Max (Best Heavy-Duty)
Repel 94101 offers robust protection with 40% DEET, making it suitable for heavily infested outdoor areas. It effectively repels no-see-ums, mosquitoes, and ticks. It provides protection for up to 8 hours, making it perfect for long outdoor activities such as hiking or camping.
- Pros: High DEET content for strong protection; long-lasting; water-resistant against sweat and rain.
- Cons: Strong chemical odor; can damage plastics and synthetic fabrics if not used cautiously.
Additional Tips for No-See-Um Protection
- Wear Protective Clothing: Long sleeves, pants, and hats can help protect your skin from bites.
- Avoid Peak Activity Times: No-see-ums are most active during dawn and dusk. Plan your outdoor activities accordingly.
- Use Insect Screens: Install fine mesh screens on windows and doors to keep no-see-ums out of your home.
- Eliminate Standing Water: No-see-ums breed in stagnant water. Regularly empty and clean bird baths and pet water dishes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do no-see-um bites itch so much?
No-see-ums inject an anticoagulant saliva into your skin to keep your blood flowing. Your body’s immune response to that saliva causes the intense itching and swelling. Do not scratch, or it can become infected.
How do I treat no-see-um bites?
Wash the area with soap and water, apply an ice pack to reduce swelling, and use an over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream or antihistamine to stop the itching.
How small are no-see-ums?
They are typically 1 to 3 millimeters long. They are so small that they can easily pass through the holes in standard 16-mesh window screens. You need a 20-mesh screen or finer to keep them out.
Conclusion
Protecting yourself from no-see-ums is essential for enjoying your time outdoors. By combining a skin repellent with a permethrin clothing treatment and eliminating standing water around your home, you can stay bite-free and comfortable.