DEET-Free Mosquito Protection: Your Complete Guide for 2026

DEET has been the go-to mosquito repellent for decades — and it works. But more and more Australians are looking for alternatives, whether it's for sensitive skin, young kids, or simply a preference for fewer synthetic chemicals in their daily routine.

The good news: going DEET-free doesn't mean going unprotected. Here's your complete guide to effective mosquito protection without DEET, updated for the 2026 Australian mozzie season.

Why people are ditching DEET

DEET (N,N-Diethyl-meta-toluamide) is highly effective, but it comes with some well-known downsides: it can irritate skin, damage synthetic fabrics, and isn't recommended for infants under 2 months. Many parents and outdoor enthusiasts are looking for alternatives that are gentler but still reliable.

The best DEET-free alternatives

1. Picaridin

Picaridin is the most widely recommended DEET alternative by health authorities, including the Australian Department of Health. It's odourless, non-greasy, and safe for use on children. Products with 20% picaridin provide protection comparable to DEET for most Australian mosquito species, including those that carry Ross River virus.

2. Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE)

OLE (not to be confused with lemon eucalyptus essential oil) is a plant-derived repellent that's TGA-approved and proven effective against a range of mosquito species. It's a good option for adults and children over 3 years. Reapply every 2–3 hours for best results.

3. Repellent-treated clothing

This is the most hands-off DEET-free option — and increasingly, the most popular. Repellent is bonded directly into the fabric fibres, so you get protection simply by getting dressed. No spraying, no reapplying, no sticky residue.

Our Original Classic Tee and Mosquito Repellent Socks are made from 100% organic cotton with built-in repellent lasting up to 70 washes. They're ideal for everyday wear, outdoor activities, and anyone who wants protection without thinking about it.

4. Environmental controls

No repellent strategy is complete without reducing mosquito populations around your home. Eliminate standing water in pots, gutters, and containers. Use mosquito nets for sleeping and outdoor entertaining. Install fly screens on windows and doors.

Building a DEET-free protection stack

The most effective approach combines multiple layers:

• Wear repellent-treated clothing (tee + socks) as your base layer of protection
• Apply picaridin or OLE to any remaining exposed skin
• Eliminate breeding sites around your home
• Use nets or screens when stationary outdoors at dawn and dusk

This layered approach gives you comprehensive, DEET-free coverage for the full Australian spring and summer season.

Ready to go DEET-free?

Start with the easiest win: repellent clothing you can wear every day. Shop the Borne Clothing collection and make this your most bite-free season yet.