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10 Best Midge Repellents
From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
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Buying Guide for the Best Midge Repellents
Picking the right midge repellent is all about understanding where you'll be using it, how sensitive your skin is, and how long you'll need protection for. Midges can be persistent, especially near water or in the evening, so choosing a product that's effective yet comfortable is key. It's also good to think about whether you want something for occasional use or for everyday protection during peak midge season. To choose the best midge repellent for you, focus less on brand names and more on the ingredients, application method, duration of protection, and any extra factors like suitability for children or eco-friendliness.Active IngredientThe active ingredient is the component in the repellent that actually wards off midges. Common ingredients include DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, and natural oils like citronella. Each of these works a little differently and can vary in strength and skin sensation. Higher concentrations tend to last longer but may be harsher on sensitive skin. If you prefer natural options, look for botanical oils, though their effectiveness and duration can be shorter. Pick an active ingredient that matches your comfort with chemicals and your need for powerful versus gentle protection.
ConcentrationConcentration refers to the percentage of the active ingredient in the product. For chemical ingredients like DEET or picaridin, a higher percentage means longer-lasting protection. For short outings, lower concentrations (below 20%) might be enough, but for extended time outdoors, you might choose a product with a concentration of 20-30% or more. With natural products, this value might relate to how much essential oil they contain. Think about how long you'll be exposed: if you're out for hours, go for a higher concentration; for quick trips, a milder formula can suffice.
Application MethodThis tells you how the repellent is applied—spray, lotion, wipe, or wearable (like bands). Sprays are quick to apply over large areas, while lotions allow more precise coverage and can be better for sensitive skin. Wipes are portable and handy for on-the-go use. Wearables offer convenience but may be less effective in high-midge areas. Choose the method that fits your lifestyle: sprays and lotions for thorough coverage at home or camping, wipes for travel, and wearables for infrequent, mild midge problems.
Duration of ProtectionDuration tells you how many hours a single application will keep midges away. This can range from 1-2 hours for some natural products to 6+ hours for stronger chemical repellents. If you'll be outside for long periods without a chance to reapply, look for longer-lasting protection. For short walks or indoor use, shorter protection times may be fine. Match the duration to your typical activity patterns so you're not constantly having to reapply.
Skin Sensitivity and SafetySome people, especially children or those with sensitive skin, might react to strong chemicals or even certain natural oils. Many repellents are tested for skin safety, but it's good to check if the product is labeled as suitable for sensitive skin, hypoallergenic, or safe for children. If you or your family have sensitive skin, opt for gentler formulas and perhaps do a patch test before full use. For babies or toddlers, look specifically for repellents intended for young children.
Scent and ResidueMidge repellents often have a noticeable scent, especially those containing strong chemicals or certain essential oils. Some people are sensitive to smells, or might dislike lingering odors or sticky residue on the skin. Fragrance-free or low-residue options are available if you're concerned about this. If scent matters to you, try smelling a tester (if possible) or look for scent-neutral or lightly-scented formulas.
Water ResistanceIf you'll be sweating a lot or swimming, a water-resistant repellent will be more effective and last longer. Non-water-resistant types might wash off quickly, requiring frequent reapplication. Consider your activities: for hiking, jogging, or days at the beach, choose a water-resistant formula to avoid losing protection after getting wet.