Let's be real with this review: bug sprays without DEET or picaridin aren't as effective or as long lasting as those with DEET or picaridin. This is a fact.
On to this bug spray. The active ingredient in this spray is p-Menthane-3, 8-diol (also called PMD). PMD is found in eucalyptus oil in small quantities, hence the botanicals name. However, the bottle (and this page) clearly state that the compound has been derived from other sources (pine oil); this does not change the effectiveness.
Pros:
- Repels mosquitos decently well for up to 2 hours after being applied to the skin
- Will not dissolve your clothes/shoes/plastics like DEET
- Safer for aquatic animals/creatures than DEET (and probably picaridin)
- No strong smell (it does have a slight rubbing alcohol scent that goes away as soon as it dries)
- Dries quickly
- No greasy/sticky residue
Cons:
- Does not work nearly as well as a DEET or picaridin based bug spray
- Not suitable for deep woods/back country
- Last a very short period of time (it is pretty ineffective at the 2 hour mark)
- Pump spray applicator does apply as evening as an aerosol applicator
- Only 10% PMD, which is fairly low. Repel Lemon Eucalyptus insect repellent is 30% lemon eucalyptus oil, which is about 65% PMD; that means that, in total Repel Lemon Eucalyptus insect repellent is 19.5% PMD to OFF's 10%.
CONCLUSION:
This is a decent "natural" bug spray; it works fairly well to repel mosquitos, without leaving any bad odor or sticky residue. That said, it doesn't last long (it's pretty ineffective after about an hour and totally ineffective by hour 2), and it doesn't work as well as picaridin or DEET based bug spray. Additionally, there are better PMD based bug sprays; look for one that is 30% lemon eucalyptus oil/~19% PMD.
Overall, though, this spray works well enough for me when I take the dog out for a walk in the evenings in my suburban/urban neighborhood.
If you are doing to be doing anything in the woods or back country, get yourself a picaridin based bug spray. DEET is another alternative, but it leaves a greasy residue on the skin, can dissolve plastics (including elastics/synthetic fabrics on clothes), and is highly toxic to aquatic animals.
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From the manufacturer
OFF! Botanicals
OFF! Botanicals provides effective, dependable protection from mosquitoes without DEET. These products are available in easy-to-use spritz and towelettes and offer protection for up to 2 hours whether you are at the park, playground, or relaxing in the backyard. For protection that lasts more than 2 hours, chose a DEET-based repellent.
Effective Plant-based Active Ingredient
We use a plant-based formula with an active ingredient chemically synthesized from pine oil extract, delivered with a variety of easy-to-use forms to help you and your family enjoy the outdoors to the fullest.
Why Choose OFF!
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Helping Protect Your Time OutsideWe believe in the freedom to enjoy the outdoors, because we think that when we’re outside we’re happier, healthier, and more relaxed. That’s why it’s our goal to help protect your time outside. |
Committed to CaringWith the largest privately owned urban entomology center in the world, we create products that help keep you and your family secure. We are committed to giving your family protection you can trust. |
Perfect for Outdoor OccasionsOFF! repellents let you enjoy all kinds of outdoor activities from relaxing in the backyard to hiking, fishing, and hunting. Choose the product that’s perfect for your activity and enjoy effective protection. |
Protection for the Whole FamilyOur repellents are the ideal solution for the whole family with a variety of active ingredients and forms to choose from, so you can find products that are suited for everyone on your next family activity. |
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