Bug Bite Thing is a small handheld tool designed to relieve itching and irritation caused by insect bites and stings. The device works by using suction to extract irritants left behind by mosquito bites, bee stings, and other insect encounters.
The product gained widespread attention after appearing on Shark Tank, where the founders demonstrated how the simple suction tool can help remove insect saliva and other irritants from beneath the skin’s surface. After securing an investment from investor Lori Greiner, the product quickly became one of the most recognizable insect bite relief tools to emerge from the show.
Today, Bug Bite Thing is widely sold online and in retail stores, and it has become a popular alternative to creams and chemical treatments for insect bite relief.
Bug Bite Thing Shark Tank Review
Bug Bite Thing appeared on Shark Tank Season 11, when entrepreneur Kelley Higney pitched the insect bite relief tool to the Sharks.
The product immediately caught the attention of the investors because it solved a common problem in a simple and drug-free way.
Key Highlights
- Unique Solution: Uses suction instead of chemicals to relieve insect bites
- Wide Appeal: Useful for families, travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts
- Deal Secured: Lori Greiner invested $150,000 for 10% equity
After the episode aired, the product experienced a significant surge in sales and quickly gained national recognition.
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The Shark Tank Pitch
During the pitch, founder Kelley Higney explained that many people rely on creams, ointments, or medications to relieve itching from insect bites. However, these treatments typically only address the symptoms, such as itching or swelling, rather than the underlying cause of the irritation.
Bug Bite Thing works differently. Instead of applying chemicals to the skin, the device uses gentle suction to help draw out the irritant left behind by insect bites or stings. By removing some of the saliva or venom from the bite area, the device may help reduce itching, swelling, and discomfort.
The entrepreneur entered the Tank seeking $150,000 for 10% equity in the company. After hearing the presentation and watching the product demonstration, Lori Greiner saw strong consumer potential and decided to invest, partnering with the company to help expand its retail distribution.
The appearance on Shark Tank introduced Bug Bite Thing to millions of viewers, leading to a significant increase in public awareness and a major boost in product sales shortly after the episode aired.
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How the Product Works
Bug Bite Thing is designed to use gentle suction to help extract irritants from insect bites and stings. Instead of applying creams or medications to the skin, the device works mechanically to remove substances that may cause itching and swelling.
When a mosquito or other insect bites the skin, it often leaves behind saliva or venom that can trigger an immune response, leading to itching, redness, and inflammation. By placing the device over the bite and pulling the handles, the tool creates suction that may help draw some of the irritant out from beneath the skin.
This process may reduce the amount of irritant present and help relieve itching and discomfort more quickly.
Key Features
Chemical-Free Relief
The device works without creams, sprays, or medications.
Reusable Tool
Bug Bite Thing can be cleaned and used multiple times, making it a long-lasting solution.
Compact Design
The small size makes it easy to carry while traveling, camping, or hiking.
Easy to Use
The device uses a simple suction mechanism that most people can operate in seconds.
Safe for Most Ages
The product is designed to be suitable for both adults and children when used properly.
Because it uses no chemicals or medication, the device is often marketed as a natural alternative for insect bite relief, especially for people who prefer non-medicated solutions.
The Story Behind the Idea
The concept for Bug Bite Thing originated when founder Kelley Higney and her family were dealing with frequent mosquito bites while living in Florida. In warm climates where mosquitoes and other insects are common, bites can quickly become a daily annoyance, especially for families spending time outdoors.
During her search for effective relief, Higney discovered a suction-based insect bite relief device used in Europe. After learning how the concept worked, she saw the potential to introduce a similar solution to the United States market, where most treatments focused on creams, sprays, or medications.
Working with her family, she helped redesign and improve the product, focusing on making it simple, reusable, and easy to use. The device was eventually launched under the name Bug Bite Thing, offering a chemical-free approach to insect bite relief.
The product began gaining traction through online sales and word-of-mouth recommendations before the company applied to appear on Shark Tank. The national exposure from the show helped transform the brand into one of the most widely recognized insect bite relief tools, expanding its reach through major retailers and online marketplaces.
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Why Bug Bite Thing Became So Popular
Several factors contributed to the rapid success of Bug Bite Thing. The product combines a simple concept with a practical solution that appeals to a wide range of consumers.
Natural Solution
Many people prefer natural remedies for minor issues like insect bites rather than applying chemical creams or medications. Because Bug Bite Thing works using suction instead of chemicals, it appeals to consumers looking for a drug-free alternative.
Simple Design
The device features a straightforward mechanical design that is easy to understand and use. It requires no batteries, electricity, or complicated setup, allowing users to treat a bite quickly whenever it happens.
Family-Friendly Product
Since the tool does not contain medication or chemicals, many parents feel comfortable using it for children. This makes it a convenient option for families who spend time outdoors where mosquito bites are common.
Shark Tank Exposure
Appearing on Shark Tank introduced the product to millions of viewers across the United States. The national exposure significantly increased brand awareness and helped the company expand into major retail stores and online marketplaces.
Bug Bite Thing – 2026 Update
As of 2026, Bug Bite Thing continues to be one of the most recognizable insect bite relief tools ever featured on Shark Tank. Since its appearance on the show, the product has gained widespread popularity among consumers looking for a simple, chemical-free way to relieve itching from insect bites.
The company has sold millions of units worldwide and significantly expanded its distribution. Today, Bug Bite Thing is available through major retail stores, pharmacies, outdoor retailers, and online marketplaces, making it easy for customers to purchase the product almost anywhere.
The device remains especially popular in regions where mosquitoes and other biting insects are common, such as warm or humid climates and areas with active outdoor lifestyles. Many people keep the tool at home, in travel bags, or in camping gear so it is available whenever insect bites occur.
Thanks to its simple design, reusable construction, and continued visibility after Shark Tank, Bug Bite Thing remains a widely recognized and frequently recommended solution for insect bite relief.
Company Success
Since appearing on Shark Tank, Bug Bite Thing has experienced rapid growth and become a widely recognized brand in the insect bite relief market. The exposure from the show helped introduce the product to millions of viewers and significantly increased demand shortly after the episode aired.
Today, Bug Bite Thing is frequently recommended as a simple and practical tool for relieving itching caused by insect bites. Its chemical-free approach and easy-to-use suction design have helped it gain popularity among families, travelers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
The product is often mentioned alongside other highly successful Shark Tank products, such as:
These companies demonstrate how a simple but effective idea can grow into a successful business after gaining national exposure on the show. Many Shark Tank products achieve major growth by combining a clear solution to a common problem with strong marketing and retail expansion.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Drug-free insect bite relief
- Reusable and durable
- Easy to carry while traveling
- Simple suction mechanism
- Safe for most ages
Cons
- Works best shortly after the bite occurs
- May not work equally well for every insect bite
Bug Bite Thing vs Insect Bite Creams
Many people compare Bug Bite Thing to traditional anti-itch creams.
| Feature | Bug Bite Thing | Insect Bite Cream |
|---|---|---|
| Treatment Type | Suction removal | Chemical treatment |
| Reusability | Reusable tool | Single-use application |
| Ingredients | No chemicals | Often contains medication |
| Portability | Small handheld device | Small tube |
| Cost | One-time purchase | Ongoing purchases |
Who Should Use Bug Bite Thing?
Bug Bite Thing can be useful for many people who frequently deal with insect bites and want a quick way to relieve itching and irritation. Because the device is simple, reusable, and chemical-free, it appeals to a wide range of users.
People who may benefit from using Bug Bite Thing include:
- Families with children, especially in areas where mosquito bites are common
- Campers and hikers who spend time outdoors in wooded or grassy environments
- Travelers visiting mosquito-prone regions, such as tropical or coastal destinations
- People who prefer natural remedies instead of creams or medications
- Anyone who frequently experiences insect bites during outdoor activities
Because the device is small, lightweight, and portable, many users keep it in a travel bag, backpack, beach bag, or first-aid kit so it is available whenever an insect bite occurs.
Is Bug Bite Thing Worth It?
For many users, Bug Bite Thing offers a simple and reusable alternative to creams, sprays, or other treatments used to relieve itching from insect bites. Instead of applying medication, the device uses gentle suction to help remove irritants that may cause itching and inflammation.
The tool is affordable, easy to use, and reusable, which makes it appealing for people who want a quick solution without relying on chemicals or medications. Because it works mechanically, it can be used whenever a bite occurs without needing additional products.
For people who spend a lot of time outdoors, camping, hiking, gardening, or traveling in mosquito-prone areas, the device can be a convenient addition to a first-aid kit, travel bag, or camping gear. Many users appreciate having a small and portable tool available for immediate relief when insect bites occur.
Where to Buy Bug Bite Thing
Bug Bite Thing is widely available through major retailers and online marketplaces.
Common places to purchase include:
- Amazon
- Walmart
- Target
- Outdoor and travel stores
Many customers prefer purchasing online where they can compare prices and read verified customer reviews.
➡️ Check the latest price on Amazon
Bug Bite Thing FAQs
Did Bug Bite Thing get a deal on Shark Tank?
Yes. Lori Greiner invested $150,000 for 10% equity in the company during Season 11.
Does Bug Bite Thing really work?
Many users report that the suction tool helps relieve itching by removing the irritant left behind by insect bites.
Is Bug Bite Thing safe for children?
The product does not use chemicals or medication, which makes it suitable for most ages when used properly.
What insects does Bug Bite Thing work for?
The device is commonly used for mosquito bites, bee stings, wasp stings, and other insect bites.
Photo: Amazon
