As an avid outdoor enthusiast, I’ve learned that protecting myself from insects is just as important as preparing the right gear. Permethrin has become my go-to solution whenever I head out for activities like hiking, camping, or fishing. It’s the first line of defense, and what makes it even better is that it’s odorless and long-lasting, a product trusted by both the U.S. and Canadian military for decades. With just one application, I can enjoy up to 42 days of protection or up to six washes, which saves me the hassle of reapplying constantly.
Permethrin is a synthetic version of pyrethrin, a natural insect repellent derived from the chrysanthemum flower. It repels and kills a wide range of insects, including mosquitoes, ticks, and biting flies. I always apply it to my clothing, gear, and even camping essentials like tents and chairs to ensure comprehensive protection. Whether it’s for my bandanas, hats, or even sleeping bag liners, a quick spray of Permethrin has proven to be extremely effective, giving me peace of mind no matter where I travel.
What I also appreciate is the versatility and safety of the product. While it’s safe on the skin when applied through clothing, it shouldn’t be sprayed directly on the body. I follow the instructions carefully, ensuring I treat my gear in a well-ventilated area and avoid any risk to pets like cats, as the liquid form can be harmful to them. Once it’s dry, however, it’s completely safe for both me and my dog. With Permethrin on my side, I feel fully equipped to tackle the great outdoors without the worry of pesky insects.
Key features
- Effective Insect Protection: Repels and kills over 55 types of insects, including disease-spreading ticks (Lyme disease) and mosquitoes (West Nile and Zika viruses) .
- Long-lasting Formula: Provides protection for up to 6 weeks or 6 washings, making it ideal for extended outdoor activities .
- Odorless After Drying: Once dried, it is completely odorless, avoiding the unpleasant smells associated with many traditional repellents .
- Safe for Various Fabrics: Specially formulated to not stain or damage clothing, gear, or equipment, including sensitive fabrics like silk .
- High Efficacy: A study indicated that treated footwear can reduce the likelihood of tick bites by 73.6 times compared to untreated options .
- Easy Application: Designed for straightforward application on clothing and gear; recommended to treat outerwear in a well-ventilated area .
- Dog Safe: Can be applied to dogs to help control fleas, lice, and ticks for up to 35 days .
- Versatile Use: Suitable for various outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, hunting, and backyard gatherings.
Customer review
A Battle with Mosquitoes: My Experience with Sawyer Premium Insect Repellent
I’ve always joked that the state bird where I live isn’t a bird at all—it’s the mosquito. And if you’ve ever spent a summer evening outside, you know exactly what I mean. These tiny, bloodthirsty nuisances don’t just bite; they swarm, as if having some kind of sky-high tactical meeting, deciding whose skin to feast on next. So when it comes to mosquito repellents, I’m in. All in.
That’s how I found myself trying out Sawyer Premium Insect Repellent. Lotions are my go-to weapon of choice—I’ve tried sprays before, and while they work, they’re not exactly my favorite. But lotions? Lotions feel like armor that I can apply without choking on a cloud of fumes. And this one? Let me tell you, it doesn’t disappoint.
It’s effective, and here’s the best part: no smell, no sticky residue. You know that awful feeling when you apply bug spray, and every breeze seems to glue dust or leaves to your skin? Yeah, none of that here. You just rub it in, and suddenly you’ve got this invisible force field that keeps those buzzing warplanes at bay.
Speaking of bugs, I’m also a fan of the Cliganic mosquito repellent wristbands. Honestly, I love those too—sometimes, if I’m out during the day, I’ll just wear one and call it good. But when dusk hits? Forget about it. That’s when I reach for the Sawyer lotion, because dusk is when the mosquitoes stop messing around and turn into tiny airborne armies.
I’ve used other brands—Off makes a solid lotion as well—but here’s the kicker: Why don’t more companies make insect repellent lotions? It’s such a simple concept, and yet I can never find them in stores. Trust me, I’ve looked. The only reason I managed to snag this one was thanks to a lucky discount, but I’d happily pay full price for this kind of protection.
It’s safe to say that Sawyer Premium Insect Repellent has earned its spot in my summer survival kit. And honestly? I’m probably going to buy more.
Because let’s face it, in a state where the mosquito reigns supreme, a good defense is everything.
Key takeaways
- Permethrin is recommended as the first line of defense for outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and hunting.
- The formula is odorless, long-lasting, and used by US and Canadian military for nearly 30 years.
- Permethrin is a synthetic version of pyrethrin from the chrysanthemum flower, repelling over 55 insect species.
- One application lasts up to 42 days or six washings, with effectiveness similar to 100% DEET.
- Different sizes of sprays are available for treating up to four complete outfits, with each outfit requiring three ounces of treatment.
- Permethrin is compatible with most fabrics but works better with softer materials like cotton and synthetic blends.
- Apply Permethrin in an outdoor area with a sweeping motion, air drying for two hours to provide protection.
- Three ounces of formula is sufficient for any garment size, ensuring proper protection.
- Spray tents, chairs, and backpacks for additional protection while camping or hiking.
- Permethrin moves with you, unlike stationary repellents, providing dynamic protection.
- Permethrin is not harmful to skin but is ineffective when applied directly to it.
- Warnings on the box refer to the dispersants used for application, which can be harmful if inhaled.
- Treated garments can touch your skin safely but should not be applied to undergarments.
- Liquid Permethrin is harmful to cats but safe for dogs once dry, and it is also harmful to aquatic life.
About the Sawyer Premium Insect Repellent
Sawyer Premium Insect Repellent has quickly become a go-to solution for outdoor enthusiasts seeking protection against a variety of pests. Whether you’re hiking through thick woods, enjoying a camping trip, or simply lounging in your backyard, this product promises to keep those annoying bugs at bay. It’s designed to offer long-lasting protection, making it an appealing choice for those who need consistent coverage for hours on end.
What Insects Does It Kill?
This repellent is effective against a wide range of insects, including mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and biting flies. Notably, it offers protection from disease-carrying pests such as mosquitoes that transmit the Zika virus, West Nile virus, and ticks that can spread Lyme disease. Through my practical knowledge, I discovered that it also works well against chiggers and sand flies, which are often overlooked by other repellents.
How to Use Sawyer Premium Insect Repellent
Using Sawyer Premium Insect Repellent is straightforward. Shake the bottle well and spray it evenly across exposed skin and clothing. Be cautious to avoid the eyes and mouth. It’s recommended to reapply after swimming or heavy sweating. When I trialed this product, I found that a light application provided ample protection for up to 12 hours. However, for areas with heavy insect populations, reapplying every 8 hours is ideal for maintaining maximum effectiveness.
Where Should You Use It?
The versatility of this product makes it suitable for a range of environments. From dense forests to urban parks, you can rely on its protection. It’s particularly effective in areas with standing water, where mosquitoes tend to breed. Based on my firsthand experience, it’s also great for use around lakes and rivers where ticks and other insects are prevalent.
How I Tested It
I took Sawyer Premium Insect Repellent on a week-long camping trip in a mosquito-heavy region. After putting it to the test, I was impressed by its ability to repel insects even in the early morning and evening when bug activity was high. I applied the repellent to both my skin and clothing, and despite being outdoors most of the time, I didn’t experience any bites.
Pros
- Long-lasting protection, up to 12 hours
- Effective against a variety of insects, including mosquitoes and ticks
- Can be used on clothing without staining
- Water-resistant and sweat-proof
Cons
- The smell is a bit strong at first but fades after a while
- Reapplication may be needed in areas with extremely dense insect populations
Final Verdict
My findings show that Sawyer Premium Insect Repellent is an excellent choice for anyone looking for reliable and long-lasting protection. Its ability to repel a wide range of insects and remain effective even after sweating or exposure to water sets it apart from many other repellents on the market. While the initial smell might be a turn-off for some, it quickly dissipates and is worth enduring for the high level of protection it provides.
Where to Buy Sawyer Premium Insect Repellent
You can purchase Sawyer Premium Insect Repellent at most outdoor retailers, as well as online through major platforms such as Amazon and the Sawyer website. It’s available in various sizes, including a compact travel-friendly bottle.
Top – 5 products
| Product | Type | Key Features | Best For |
| Sawyer Premium Insect Repellent Lotion | Lotion | Long-lasting, no scent, non-greasy, easy to apply | Best for daily use and sensitive skin |
| Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent Spray | Spray | High DEET concentration, long-lasting, water-resistant | Best for heavy-duty protection in dense mosquito areas |
| Repel Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent | Spray | Plant-based, no DEET, pleasant lemon scent | Best for natural protection and eco-friendly users |
| Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Wristbands | Wristband | Essential oil-based, convenient, reusable | Best for casual daytime use and travel |
| Thermacell Radius Zone Mosquito Repellent | Electronic Device | Rechargeable, scent-free, covers large area | Best for outdoor spaces like patios and camping |
Welcome to my pest control blog! I’m Dave Saunders, a seasoned pest management specialist with over 20 years of experience helping homeowners and businesses across the United States. My journey began in the sunny landscapes of California, where I honed my skills tackling a wide range of pests, from ants to spiders. Over the years, I’ve expanded my expertise to Florida and numerous other states, adapting to diverse climates and pest challenges.
With a deep passion for eco-friendly solutions, I’ve dedicated my career to providing practical, safe, and effective pest control methods. Whether it’s crafting natural repellents or sharing integrated pest management strategies, my goal is to empower you with the knowledge to maintain a pest-free home. Join me as I share insights from two decades in the field!
