The Best Insect and Pest Repellent Sprays
We compared eight insect and pest repellent sprays based on owner ratings and feedback. Here's what we found.
Updated
The bottom line
The Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer (B01N0TGJHB) is our top pick for its effectiveness against a wide range of insects and long-lasting protection. Priced at $17.23, it offers a great balance of performance and value. The Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Insect Repellent Spray (B07JBRJH79) is a solid budget alternative at $18.98, offering a natural, pet-friendly solution with a fresh minty scent. However, it may not prevent insects from returning if not reapplied. The Ortho Home Defense Max Indoor Insect Barrier (B07WHJW3FR) is a close runner-up, providing 365 days of protection on nonporous surfaces, but it may require additional measures for complete effectiveness.
Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer $17.23
Best overall insect and pest repellent spray
The Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer is effective against a wide range of insects and provides 12 months of protection on non-porous surfaces. Priced at $17.23, it offers great value for its performance. However, users have expressed safety concerns regarding its use near edible plants and indoors.
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Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Insect Repellent Spray $18.98
Best budget-friendly, natural insect repellent
The Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Insect Repellent Spray is a natural, pet-friendly solution that is effective for both indoor and outdoor use. Priced at $18.98, it offers a fresh minty scent and is safe for use around pets and children. However, it may not prevent insects from returning if not reapplied.
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Ortho Home Defense Max Indoor Insect Barrier $22.98
Best long-lasting indoor insect barrier
The Ortho Home Defense Max Indoor Insect Barrier provides 365 days of protection on nonporous surfaces and is easy to apply with an Extended Reach Comfort Wand. Priced at $22.98, it is effective against a wide range of insects. However, it may require reapplication or additional measures for complete effectiveness.
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- Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer Best overall balance of effectiveness and value 9.0/10 $17.23 Amazon
- Ortho Home Defense Max Indoor Insect Barrier Best long-lasting indoor insect barrier 8.5/10 $22.98 Amazon
- Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Insect Repellent Spray Best budget-friendly, natural insect repellent 8.0/10 $18.98 Amazon
- Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Insect Repellent Spray Good for whole-home coverage, but expensive 7.5/10 $37.98 Amazon
- Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Insect Repellent Spray Effective but may not prevent insects from returning 7.0/10 $34.98 Amazon
- Mighty Mint Peppermint Oil Insect Repellent Good for indoor and outdoor use, but requires mixing 6.5/10 $29.99 Amazon
- Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer Effective but may require multiple applications 6.0/10 $14.98 Amazon
- Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer Good for cracks and crevices, but may not fully prevent pests 5.5/10 $11.82 Amazon
What to consider
When choosing an insect and pest repellent spray, consider the product's effectiveness, longevity, ease of use, and safety. Effectiveness is crucial, as you want a product that can kill and deter a wide range of insects. Longevity is important for convenience and cost-effectiveness, as you don't want to reapply the product too frequently. Ease of use is also a factor, as you want a product that is easy to apply and doesn't create a mess. Finally, safety is a consideration, especially if you have pets, children, or edible plants in your home.
Also-rans
The Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer (B0DV6HRC5B) and the Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer for Cracks & Crevices (B071S88VPT) did not make our top picks due to their lower effectiveness and longevity scores. The Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer (B0DV6HRC5B) may require multiple applications to achieve desired results, while the Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer for Cracks & Crevices (B071S88VPT) may not fully prevent pests from returning.