Elmer Gray, a public health extension entomologist, was recently quoted in a CNN article about the best bug sprays.
CNN compiled a list of the best bug sprays, using information and advice from experts. The experts largely echoed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
They praised the effectiveness of ingredients like oil of lemon eucalyptus, picaridin, p-Methane-3,8-diol, 2-Undecanonone and IR3535. Still, DEET was heralded above all else as the industry standard.
“DEET is still the gold standard to many in the public health profession,” Gray said.
Many of his peers also agree.
The article continued to emphasize that after weeks of testing, three bug sprays that stood above the rest included Cutter Backwoods Insect Repellent, Proven Insect Repellent Spray and Coleman SkinSmart DEET-Free Insect Repellent Spray.