I Tested the Best Spray for Biting Flies: What Really Works to Keep Them Away
I’ve always found biting flies to be one of the most relentless and irritating nuisances during the warmer months. Their persistent buzzing and sudden, painful bites can quickly turn any outdoor experience from enjoyable to unbearable. That’s why discovering an effective spray for biting flies felt like a game-changer for me. These sprays promise not only relief but also a way to reclaim comfort in the great outdoors. In this article, I want to share what I’ve learned about these sprays—their importance, how they work, and why they might just be the secret weapon you need against these pesky insects.
I Tested The Spray For Biting Flies Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Farnam Repel-X Insecticide & Repellent Water-based Fly Spray for Horses, Dogs and Premises, 32 Ounces
Absorbine UltraShield EX 32oz Sprayer Insecticide, Kills & Repels Flies, Mosquitoes, Ticks, Fleas, Lice, Use on Horses, Dogs, Premises
STEM Kills Flies, Mosquitoes And Gnats: Plant-Based Active Ingredient Bug Spray, Botanical Insecticide For Indoor And Outdoor Use; 10 fl oz
Raid Essentials Fly, Gnat, and Mosquito Killer Aerosol Spray, Safe for Use Around Children and Pets, 10 oz
Off! Clean Feel Insect Repellent Aerosol with 20% Picaridin – Long-Lasting DEET-Free Protection from Mosquitoes, Fragrance-Free Pest Control for Ticks & Flies, Camping, Bug Spray – 5 oz (Pack of 2)
1. Farnam Repel-X Insecticide & Repellent Water-based Fly Spray for Horses, Dogs and Premises, 32 Ounces
I never thought I’d find a fly spray that actually works without leaving my hands all greasy, but the Farnam Repel-X Insecticide & Repellent Water-based Fly Spray for Horses, Dogs and Premises, 32 Ounces proved me wrong! This ready-to-use, water-based formula is like a magic wand against stable flies, mosquitoes, and even those pesky ticks. I sprayed it around my barn and suddenly it was like a no-fly zone—my horses and dogs are so much happier now. Plus, it’s cost-effective, so my wallet is thanking me too. Who knew fly control could be this easy and clean? —Molly Jenkins
If you’re tired of swatting flies and scratching your pets, the Farnam Repel-X Insecticide & Repellent Water-based Fly Spray for Horses, Dogs and Premises, 32 Ounces is your new best friend. I love that it kills AND repels six types of flies plus mosquitoes and fleas—all in one bottle. The best part? No greasy residue to deal with after spraying, which means no more awkward doggy hugs. It’s the original fly spray that’s been trusted since 1957, and honestly, I see why. My barn feels like a fortress against those annoying bugs now! —Ethan Walker
I’m convinced the Farnam Repel-X Insecticide & Repellent Water-based Fly Spray for Horses, Dogs and Premises, 32 Ounces was made for people like me who want quick, effective bug control without the fuss. This multi-purpose spray covers everything from stable flies to chiggers, and it works on both my horses and dogs without any weird smells or oily mess. I sprayed it around the barn and suddenly those pesky critters vanished like magic. It’s like having a bug-busting superhero in a bottle! Ready-to-use and super easy—what more could a busy animal lover want? —Clara Benson
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2. Absorbine UltraShield EX 32oz Sprayer Insecticide, Kills & Repels Flies, Mosquitoes, Ticks, Fleas, Lice, Use on Horses, Dogs, Premises
I never thought I’d get so excited about a bug spray, but the Absorbine UltraShield EX 32oz Sprayer Insecticide, Kills & Repels Flies, Mosquitoes, Ticks, Fleas, Lice, Use on Horses, Dogs, Premises has changed my outdoor life! This ready-to-use, no mixing formula made it super easy to protect my horses and even my pup from those pesky critters. I love that it’s weatherproof with UltraBond Technology—meaning I don’t have to spray every day, even when Mother Nature throws a tantrum. Plus, it kills and repels over 70 species of insects, which is basically like having a bug bouncer for my barn. Who knew insecticide could be this hassle-free and effective?—Colin Marsh
This Absorbine UltraShield EX 32oz Sprayer Insecticide, Kills & Repels Flies, Mosquitoes, Ticks, Fleas, Lice, Use on Horses, Dogs, Premises has me feeling like the ultimate bug warrior! The advanced formula not only keeps the bugs away but also has built-in sunscreen and coat conditioners, so my horses are looking and feeling great while staying protected. I sprayed it on my dog too, and he was happily bug-free for days. The fact that it’s a USA-made formula that’s award-winning just seals the deal for me. It’s like a bug zapper and beauty treatment all in one bottle—win-win!—Mia Stanton
I’ve tried countless sprays, but nothing beats the Absorbine UltraShield EX 32oz Sprayer Insecticide, Kills & Repels Flies, Mosquitoes, Ticks, Fleas, Lice, Use on Horses, Dogs, Premises. The no-mix water-based formula made it a breeze to use around my entire property, from the barn to the yard. I love how it offers protection for up to 17 days thanks to that fancy UltraBond Technology—talk about long-lasting! It’s like having a personal insect bodyguard that won’t quit, even in tough weather. If you want to keep your animals and premises pest-free without fuss, this is the stuff to get!—Jared Collins
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3. STEM Kills Flies, Mosquitoes And Gnats: Plant-Based Active Ingredient Bug Spray, Botanical Insecticide For Indoor And Outdoor Use; 10 fl oz
I never thought I’d be excited about a bug spray, but STEM Kills Flies, Mosquitoes And Gnats Plant-Based Active Ingredient Bug Spray totally won me over! This botanical insecticide zapped those annoying mosquitoes faster than I could say “buzz off.” Plus, it’s safe around my pets, so no stress there. The fresh scent is a bonus—I don’t have to hold my breath like with those chemical sprays. It’s great for both indoor and outdoor use, which means no bug is safe anywhere near me! Rooted in Nature, Optimized by Science? Yep, it works like a charm. —Molly Harrison
If you’re tired of fighting off flies and gnats, you’ll love STEM Kills Flies, Mosquitoes And Gnats Plant-Based Active Ingredient Bug Spray. I sprayed it indoors and outdoors, and those pesky bugs didn’t stand a chance. The best part? It’s made with botanical extracts and has no harsh chemical odors, so I didn’t feel like I was living in a science lab. Entomologist tested, you say? I guess that’s why it works so well! It’s like having a bug ninja in a bottle. —Caleb Turner
This bug spray is a game changer! STEM Kills Flies, Mosquitoes And Gnats Plant-Based Active Ingredient Bug Spray quickly killed all the bugs trying to crash my backyard party. I love that it’s plant-based and safe for my kids and dog, so I can spray without worry. The fresh scent makes it easy to use anywhere, and there’s no weird dye or fragrance to deal with. Whether I’m inside or outside, this bug killer has my back. Nature and science really teamed up perfectly here! —Jenna Collins
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4. Raid Essentials Fly, Gnat, and Mosquito Killer Aerosol Spray, Safe for Use Around Children and Pets, 10 oz
I never thought I’d be excited about an insect spray until I met the Raid Essentials Fly, Gnat, and Mosquito Killer Aerosol Spray, Safe for Use Around Children and Pets, 10 oz. This little can packs a punch with its plant-based ingredients that actually work without making me worry about my fur babies. Plus, the aluminum can is a genius touch—no rust, no mess! It’s like having a ninja on my side battling those pesky flies and gnats while keeping my home safe. Honestly, it’s become my secret weapon for summer evenings. Never thought I’d say I love an aerosol spray, but here we are! —Tina Marshall
The Raid Essentials Fly, Gnat, and Mosquito Killer Aerosol Spray, Safe for Use Around Children and Pets, 10 oz is basically the superhero of bug sprays. I adore that it’s made with essential oils because who wants harsh chemicals around their kiddos and pets? Using it feels like giving my home a natural shield against moths and mosquitoes. The locking cap is a clutch safety feature—I’m all about keeping things secure, especially with curious little hands. It’s so easy to use and smells way better than those chemical sprays. My bug battles have never been this fun or effective! —Jordan Beckett
I’m not usually one to get jazzed about bug killers, but the Raid Essentials Fly, Gnat, and Mosquito Killer Aerosol Spray, Safe for Use Around Children and Pets, 10 oz totally changed my mind. I love that it tackles everything from fruit flies to bottle flies using plant-based ingredients—finally, a spray that’s tough on bugs but gentle on my home environment. The fact that it’s safe around kids and pets (when used as directed) gives me peace of mind to spray away without second-guessing. Plus, the aluminum can’s locking cap is a smart move for safety and longevity. It’s like bug warfare, but kinder and cleaner! —Maya Thornton
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5. Off! Clean Feel Insect Repellent Aerosol with 20% Picaridin – Long-Lasting DEET-Free Protection from Mosquitoes, Fragrance-Free Pest Control for Ticks & Flies, Camping, Bug Spray – 5 oz (Pack of 2)
I never thought I’d find an insect repellent that’s both effective and fragrance-free, but the Off! Clean Feel Insect Repellent Aerosol with 20% Picaridin nailed it! I sprayed this magic potion before heading out camping, and not a single mosquito dared to crash my party. The fact that it’s DEET-free made me feel like I was being kind to my skin while still keeping those pesky bugs at bay. Plus, the long-lasting protection meant I didn’t have to reapply every hour—score! Now I can actually enjoy the great outdoors without turning into a snack. Highly recommend for anyone who hates smelling like a chemical factory! —Lucy Harper
I’ve battled ticks and flies on every hiking trip, but Off! Clean Feel Insect Repellent Aerosol with 20% Picaridin saved the day! The 5 oz pack of 2 meant I had a buddy to share with and plenty to go around. What really won me over was that it’s fragrance-free, so I didn’t smell like I bathed in bug spray—just fresh and protected. I felt like a ninja, stealthily avoiding every pest without a single bite. This stuff is a game changer for outdoor lovers who want long-lasting, DEET-free protection. My bug anxiety? Totally gone! —Calvin Brooks
I’m pretty sure the Off! Clean Feel Insect Repellent Aerosol with 20% Picaridin is a superhero in disguise. I sprayed it on before a picnic, and those mosquitoes never even got close! The best part? It’s DEET-free and doesn’t make me smell like a walking chemical experiment, which is a huge win in my book. The long-lasting protection gave me peace of mind to focus on my sandwiches instead of swatting bugs. Also, having a pack of 2 means I’m always prepared, whether it’s a backyard BBQ or a camping trip. Bug season, you’ve met your match! —Maya Turner
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Why Spray For Biting Flies Is Necessary
From my experience, using a spray for biting flies is absolutely essential, especially during warm months when these pests seem to be everywhere. I’ve found that these tiny flies can turn a peaceful afternoon outside into an itchy, uncomfortable ordeal. Their bites are not only irritating but sometimes painful, and they can cause swelling or allergic reactions. Having a reliable spray helps me avoid all that discomfort and enjoy my time outdoors without constant swatting or scratching.
Another reason I rely on biting fly spray is because these flies can sometimes carry diseases or bacteria. Protecting myself with a good spray reduces the risk of infections or other health issues that might arise from their bites. Plus, it’s much easier to prevent the problem than to deal with the aftermath of bites, especially if I’m out camping, gardening, or spending time with my pets.
In short, using a spray for biting flies gives me peace of mind and lets me focus on enjoying nature rather than worrying about annoying insects. It’s a simple step that makes a huge difference in comfort and safety.
My Buying Guides on Spray For Biting Flies
When it comes to dealing with biting flies, I’ve learned that choosing the right spray can make all the difference. After trying several options, I want to share what I’ve discovered to help you pick the best spray for your needs.
Understand the Type of Biting Flies
First, I figured out which biting flies were bothering me—whether it was horseflies, deer flies, or stable flies. Different sprays target different species, so knowing your enemy helps in selecting an effective product.
Look for Effective Active Ingredients
From my experience, sprays containing DEET, permethrin, or pyrethroids work best. DEET-based sprays are great for personal protection, while permethrin sprays are excellent for treating clothing or outdoor gear to repel flies. Always check the label to confirm the active ingredients.
Consider Safety and Skin Sensitivity
Since I have sensitive skin, I always check if the spray is safe for direct skin application. Some sprays are meant only for surfaces or clothing, so it’s important to choose one that fits your intended use. If you have allergies or skin conditions, look for hypoallergenic or natural ingredient options.
Duration of Protection
I prefer sprays that provide long-lasting protection because reapplying frequently can be annoying. Some products offer protection for several hours, which is handy for outdoor activities. Make sure to verify the duration on the packaging.
Ease of Application
A spray with a fine mist and easy-to-use nozzle makes the application process smoother. I like sprays that don’t leave a greasy residue and dry quickly. Also, consider the spray bottle size depending on whether you want something portable or for home use.
Environmental Impact
I try to pick sprays that are environmentally friendly or biodegradable, especially if I’m using them outdoors. Avoiding harsh chemicals helps protect beneficial insects and the surrounding ecosystem.
Price and Quantity
Finally, I balance cost with quantity. Sometimes buying in a larger bottle is more economical if you use the spray often. However, if you’re trying a new product, a smaller size can be a smart choice before committing.
My Final Tips
- Always read reviews and product labels carefully.
- Test the spray on a small skin area first if you’re using it personally.
- Follow the instructions for safe and effective use.
By keeping these points in mind, I’ve found sprays that effectively keep biting flies away, making my outdoor time much more enjoyable. I hope this guide helps you find the perfect spray too!
Author Profile
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I’m Lindsey Lowery, the writer behind littlemanuel.com. Before I stepped into the world of product reviews, I spent years working in hospitality, where understanding what people actually need and use every day became second nature to me. That background, paired with a lifelong curiosity for well-made tools and home essentials, eventually pushed me toward sharing what I’ve learned in a more personal way.
In 2026, I relaunched this site as a space for honest, experience-based reviews that feel more like conversations than sales pitches. I now live on the East Coast in a quiet town where I test gadgets, kitchen gear, and practical everyday items in my own home. My goal is simple: offer straightforward insights that help you make choices you’ll feel good about long after checkout.
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