Best Repellents for Midges: Top Outdoor Protection Picks
Midges can spoil outdoor plans, especially in damp or marshy areas. The right combination of repellent and barrier keeps you comfortable while you enjoy the outdoors. This guide spotlights five products that perform well against midges and other biting pests, including picaridin-based lotions and wipes, a reliable spray, and a protective head net. Each option offers distinct advantages for travel, camping, hiking, or everyday outdoor activity.
| Product | Type | Active Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sawyer SP564 Premium Insect Repellent Lotion | Lotion | 20% Picaridin | Up to 14h mosquitoes/ticks; 8h other pests |
| Avon Skin So Soft Towelettes, 16 Packets | Towelette | Picaridin | DEET-free; portable for on-the-go use |
| Ranger Ready Picaridin Spray | Spray | 20% Picaridin | Up to 12h ticks/mosquitoes; 8h others |
| Proven Insect Repellent Lotion | Lotion | 20% Picaridin | Up to 14h mosquitoes/ticks; 8h others |
| Timbuktoo Midges Head Net | Head Net | None (physical barrier) | DEET-free; natural barrier against midges |
Sawyer 20% Picaridin Lotion
Sawyer SP564 Premium Insect Repellent Lotion uses 20% picaridin to deliver long-lasting protection. It is non-greasy, fragrance-free, and odorless, dries quickly, and won’t damage plastics or synthetic coatings. Safe for clothing, backpacks, watches, sunglasses, fishing lines, and firearm finishes. Provides up to 14 hours of protection against mosquitoes and ticks, and up to 8 hours against flies, gnats, and chiggers. As a DEET alternative, picaridin offers strong bite deterrence with a milder skin feel, making it suitable for family outdoor activities.
Avon Skin So Soft Towelettes, 16 Pack
Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus Picaridin Towelettes offer DEET-free, oil-free protection against mosquitoes, deer ticks, gnats, no-seeums, sand flies, and biting midges. The resealable bag holds 16 packets, making it easy to grab-and-go for backpacks, purses, or cars. The towelettes provide a light, low-odor formula that’s gentle on skin and dermatologist-tested for safety, suitable for most skin types. They deliver reliable, portable protection during outdoor activities where quick application matters.
Ranger Ready Picaridin Spray
Ranger Ready Repellents Picaridin Insect Repellent Spray delivers up to 12 hours of protection from ticks and mosquitoes, and up to 8 hours against gnats, biting flies, chiggers, no-see-ums, and fleas. The formula is non-greasy and odorless, making it comfortable for extended outdoor use. It is family-friendly and suitable for adults and kids 1 year and older, providing a reliable option for households seeking effective, skin-friendly protection.
Proven Insect Repellent Lotion
Proven Insect Repellent Lotion offers protection from mosquitoes, ticks, black flies, biting flies, stable flies, gnats, chiggers, sand flies, and no-see-ums. A single application can repel mosquitoes and ticks for up to 14 hours, and flies, gnats, chiggers, and no-see-ums for up to 8 hours. The lotion uses picaridin and is considered safe for use on the whole family when used as directed, including children older than 2 months. This makes it a versatile option for a wide range of outdoor activities.
TIMBUKTOO Midges Head Net
TimBuktoo Midges Head Net uses a fine soft mesh with over 620 holes per inch to block mosquitos, midges, black flies, and no-see-ums while preserving visibility and airflow. It features a generous size with an 8-inch top and 26-inch length, easily covering hats and larger headgear. This chemical-free barrier provides natural protection against tiny insects, making it a practical choice for gardeners, hikers, and outdoor workers who prefer a lightweight, breathable solution without repellents.
Buying Guide
Key considerations help you choose the right option for midges and other biting pests. First, decide between chemical repellents (active ingredients like picaridin or DEET) and physical barriers (netting). Picardin at 20% is a common, effective DEET alternative that tends to be lighter on the skin and less oily. For sensitive skin or children, DEET-free options or towelettes can be convenient and portable. Form factor matters: lotions provide long coverage, sprays offer quick application, and towelettes are ideal for travel. For midges specifically, consider a head net or protective netting as a supplementary barrier. Always follow product directions for application and reapplication, and assess compatibility with gear and clothing. When traveling, carry a mix of forms to adapt to changing conditions and activities.
- Active ingredient: Picardin vs DEET and their skin feel and safety profiles.
- Form factor: Lotion, spray, towelettes, or barrier nets; portability and ease of use.
- Protection duration: Hours of protection per pest (mosquitoes, ticks, midges, etc.).
- Safety: Age recommendations and skin sensitivity considerations.
- Barrier options: Use head nets or nets in conjunction with repellents for added midges protection.
- Gear compatibility: Check whether repellents contact plastics or fabrics and whether they leave residues.