Review: Sawyer Permethrin Clothing Insect Repellent Spray
Each time I go out for a stroll around my yard, I quickly spray my boots with Sawyer Permethrin Spray – the peace of mind and repellant factor is reassuring. I have dedicated high boots that live in my garage just for the yard (they are made by Nat’s). With this spray, I feel I can walk around the yard knowing any ticks will be repelled from my boots.
And then, on days when I do dedicated yard work, my entire suit has been treated with this permethrin spray — even my hat and gloves! I spray once, let it dry, and I’m good for many outings.
Now, let’s get into the full review:
An Introduction for Sawyer Permethrin Spray
If you’re someone who spends time outdoors and wants to avoid the worry of ticks and tick-borne illnesses, Sawyer Permethrin Spray can be a game-changer. Whether you’re simply walking your property, hiking, gardening, or clearing brush, ticks are an unwelcome companion. This review is for homeowners, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone serious about tick prevention — people like you who want to feel confident that their clothing is actively working against ticks.
Sawyer Permethrin Spray Summary
Overall, Sawyer Permethrin Spray is an effective, long-lasting tick repellent for treating clothing and gear — and I highly recommend it to anyone spending time in tick-prone areas. It offers reliable protection, is simple to apply, and remains effective through multiple outings and even several washes.
Sawyer Permethrin Spray Pros
- Effective against ticks (and other insects) — Proven to repel and kill ticks, mosquitoes, chiggers, and mites.
- Long-lasting — One application lasts up to 6 weeks or 6 washes.
- Odorless after drying — No lingering smell on clothes.
- Versatile — Can be applied to boots, clothing, hats, backpacks, tents, and more.
- EPA-registered — Backed by studies and approved for safe use on clothing and gear.
- Doesn’t stain or damage fabrics — Safe on most materials, including synthetics and natural fibers.
Sawyer Permethrin Spray Cons
- Takes time to dry — Needs about 2 hours (or longer in humid conditions) to fully dry before use.
- Not for skin — Can only be applied to clothing and gear, not directly to skin.
- Needs reapplication — After 6 washes or 6 weeks, retreatment is necessary for continued effectiveness.
- Slightly higher price point — Compared to some DIY permethrin concentrates.
My Experience With Sawyer Permethrin Spray
I’ve been using Sawyer Permethrin Spray consistently on my yard boots and outdoor work clothing. The experience has been exceptional. As someone who’s serious about minimizing tick exposure — especially in spring and summer when ticks are most active — having a layer of protection on my gear gives me real confidence.
I treat my boots, gloves, pants, shirt, and even my yard hat. Once dry, there’s no noticeable odor or residue. The spray has not discolored any of my fabrics, and the treated items stay effective for multiple yard sessions. I’ve even noticed fewer mosquitoes bothering me when I wear my treated gear.
Having reliable, science-backed protection helps me focus on what I’m doing outdoors, not on worrying about ticks hitching a ride. I trust Sawyer and always keep a bottle handy.
What is Sawyer Permethrin Spray?
Sawyer Permethrin Spray is a clothing and gear insect repellent designed to kill and repel ticks, mosquitoes, chiggers, mites, and more. Unlike skin-applied repellents like DEET, this spray is applied to fabrics and gear, bonding to the fibers and remaining effective through several washes. For those spending time outdoors, it provides an invisible barrier that actively reduces the risk of tick bites and tick-borne diseases.
Who is Sawyer Permethrin Spray for?
- Homeowners and Yard Workers
Anyone managing their own property, clearing brush, gardening, or mowing in tick-prone areas will benefit from permethrin-treated clothing and boots. - Hikers, Campers, and Outdoor Enthusiasts
Trail walkers, backpackers, and campers exposed to wooded or grassy environments where ticks thrive should treat their clothing and gear before heading out. - Hunters and Fishermen
Those spending extended hours in fields, woods, or along waterways where insects are abundant can use permethrin spray for added protection.
What Benefits Does Sawyer Permethrin Spray Provide?
Here’s a list of benefits that Sawyer Permethrin Spray provides for outdoor enthusiasts and homeowners:
- Long-lasting protection from ticks and insects
- Reduced risk of tick-borne diseases like Lyme
- Odorless, non-greasy, and easy-to-apply treatment
- Versatile use on a variety of outdoor clothing and gear
Benefit #1 — Long-lasting tick and insect protection
Sawyer Permethrin bonds tightly to fabric fibers, providing up to 6 weeks (or 6 washes) of continuous protection. This means you don’t need to reapply before every outing — just treat your gear and go.
Benefit #2 — Reduced risk of tick-borne diseases
By killing and repelling ticks on contact, Sawyer Permethrin reduces your exposure to ticks that can carry Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and other illnesses common in many regions.
Benefit #3 — Easy and versatile application
The spray nozzle makes it simple to coat boots, pants, hats, socks, backpacks, and even tents. Once dry, your gear remains protected without noticeable residue or odor.
Sawyer Permethrin Spray Pricing — How Much Does it Cost?
As of May 2025, Sawyer Permethrin Spray (24-ounce trigger spray bottle) typically costs $16–$20 depending on the retailer. A single bottle can treat several outfits or multiple pieces of gear and is widely available at outdoor stores, Amazon, and Sawyer’s official site.
You can often find packs of two bottles for better value.
Sawyer Permethrin Spray Alternatives
- Ben’s Clothing and Gear Insect Repellent (Permethrin)
Similar formulation and protection duration, slightly smaller bottle size, comparable price. - Ranger Ready Permethrin 0.5% Clothing Spray
Another EPA-registered option, comes in larger bottle sizes for treating more gear. - Sawyer Permethrin Aerosol Spray
Same formula as the trigger spray, but in an aerosol can for slightly different application style (better for fine mist on clothing seams).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I spray Sawyer Permethrin directly on my skin?
A: No. Sawyer Permethrin is for clothing and gear only. Use a skin repellent like Sawyer Picaridin for exposed skin.
Q: How long does Sawyer Permethrin last?
A: One application lasts up to 6 weeks or 6 washes, whichever comes first.
Q: Does Sawyer Permethrin damage fabrics?
A: No — it’s safe for most fabrics including cotton, nylon, wool, and synthetic blends. Always spot-test delicate fabrics if unsure.
Q: Is permethrin safe for pets?
A: Permethrin is toxic to cats when wet but safe once dry. Keep treated items away from cats during drying. Dogs can safely wear permethrin-treated gear once dry.
Conclusion — Is Sawyer Permethrin Spray Worth It?
If you’re serious about tick prevention and want reliable protection on your outdoor gear and clothing, Sawyer Permethrin Spray is absolutely worth it. For homeowners, hikers, and anyone spending time where ticks lurk, it provides peace of mind and real, long-lasting defense.
I keep a bottle in my garage year-round — and I recommend you do the same.
Have you used Sawyer Permethrin Spray? Share your experiences or questions in the comments below!
