Best Bug Sprays for Babies and Toddlers: Hike-Friendly Options
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It’s that time of year again. It’s nice outside, and those darn mosquitoes and ticks have returned (sigh). Like many moms, I've been bombarded with bug spray advice. From "natural" solutions to chemical repellents, everyone has an opinion! I've seen moms try everything – – those plastic bracelets that look like they came straight out of the 80s, even those little mosquito stickers. Honestly, these "solutions" make me laugh! And although I knew these “solutions” didn’t work, I was, honestly, just as confused about what was safe and effective for my family. I knew what I could use while pregnant and breastfeeding, but wasn’t sure or couldn’t remember when I could begin using those same repellents on my babies. It's all so overwhelming, especially as a new mom!
So, let's break it down.
Table of Contents
How Do Bug Sprays Work? Understanding Repellents and Insecticides
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Bug sprays work in two main ways: they either repel bugs or kill them.
Repellents: Most bug sprays are repellents. These products don't kill bugs; instead, they keep them away! They work by either smelling or tasting bad to insects like mosquitoes, ticks, flies, and gnats. Imagine a stinky or bad-tasting shield that bugs don't want to go near. Odorant repellents, the ones that work by smell, are usually the most effective at preventing bug bites.
Insecticides and Pesticides: These bug sprays are designed to kill bugs. They work by affecting the bug's nervous system when the bug touches or eats the chemical. Think of it like a light switch that gets turned off—the bug can't move or function properly anymore. Insecticides specifically target and kill insects. Pesticides are a broader category and can kill other pests, like fungus and bacteria, in addition to insects.
Why Natural Insect Repellents (Essential Oils, etc.) Can Be Risky for Children
While the idea of using "all-natural" bug sprays on your kids might seem appealing, it's important to understand the potential risks. "Natural" doesn't always equal "safe," especially when it comes to insect repellents.
The Problem with Natural Repellents:
Limited Effectiveness: Many natural repellents, often essential oils, only repel some mosquitoes and other insects, leaving you and your family susceptible to bites from other bugs like ticks.
Short-Lasting Protection: The protection offered by natural repellents is typically very short, often lasting only 30 minutes to a maximum of two hours. This means constant reapplication, which can be impractical and may increase the risk of skin irritation.
Lack of Regulation and Research: Unlike chemical repellents, most natural oils used in insect repellents haven't been rigorously studied for safety or effectiveness, especially for children. They are not regulated in the same way, and their long-term effects are unknown.
Variable Quality and Concentration: The quality and concentration of essential oils can vary widely, making it difficult to know exactly what you're applying to your child's skin.
Potential for Skin Irritation: Essential oils, even when diluted, can irritate sensitive skin, especially in children. Reactions like redness, itching, and rashes are possible.
Toxicity to Pets: Many essential oils, including citronella, are toxic to dogs and cats. Even inhaling, absorbing, or ingesting small amounts can cause neurological problems and even death. It's crucial to keep essential oils and natural repellents out of reach of pets.
Commonly Used but Questionable Natural Oils:
Many natural oils are touted as insect repellents, but their effectiveness is often questionable. These include (but are not limited to): allspice, basil, cedar, cinnamon, citronella, lemon eucalyptus oil (note: oil of lemon eucalyptus is a different, EPA-registered repellent), garlic, geranium, lavender, lemongrass, peppermint, pine, rosemary, and thyme. While they might offer some very mild and fleeting repellency, they are not a reliable way to protect your children from mosquito or tick bites and the diseases they can carry.
Ineffective Mosquito Repellents: Dryer Sheets, Wearables, and More
Many products claim to repel mosquitoes, but some simply don't work. It's important to avoid relying on ineffective methods, as this can leave your family vulnerable to mosquito and tick bites and the diseases they can transmit.
Debunking the Myths:
Vitamin B12: While some people believe that vitamin B12 supplements make them less attractive to mosquitoes, there's little scientific evidence to support this claim. Taking B12 is not a reliable way to prevent mosquito bites and should not be used as a substitute for proven repellents.
Dryer Sheets: Fabric softener dryer sheets, like Bounce, may repel gnats, but they are not effective against mosquitoes. Even for gnats, they leave large areas of your body unprotected. While they contain some ingredients that repel gnats (like linalool and beta-citronellol), these ingredients are not present in high enough concentrations to be truly effective and are not designed for mosquito repellency.
Wearable Repellents: Clip-on devices, wristbands, stickers, and other wearable "repellents" offer very limited protection. They only protect the immediate area around the device, leaving most of your body exposed and vulnerable to bites. I’ve even seen mosquitoes land right next to these devices!
Repellent Candles: Citronella candles and other scented candles marketed as mosquito repellents are largely ineffective. While smoke can deter some insects, and mosquitoes dislike citronella, the candles don't distribute the repellent widely or evenly enough to provide meaningful protection. While they create a beautiful ambiance, they don’t effectively keep the bugs away.
Are Allethrin Products Safe for Kids?
Allethrin is a synthetic insecticide that mimics the natural pyrethrins found in chrysanthemum flowers. It's used in some battery-operated devices, like those made by Thermacell, as a localized form of mosquito control.
The Concerns About Allethrin and Children:
While allethrin can be effective against mosquitoes, there are important safety concerns to consider, especially when it comes to children:
Irritation: Allethrin fumes can cause mild to severe irritation of the skin, airways, and eyes. Direct contact with skin requires immediate removal of contaminated clothing and thorough washing of the affected area.
Inhalation Risks: Inhaling allethrin fumes can be particularly problematic, potentially leading to headaches, dizziness, asthma-like symptoms, and, in cases of high exposure, even seizures or loss of consciousness. Children are more vulnerable to these effects due to their smaller size and developing respiratory systems.
Not Recommended for Young Children: Because of these potential risks, especially the inhalation hazard, devices that disperse allethrin are generally not recommended for use around young children.
Important Usage Information:
Limited Duration: These devices are only effective while they are running, with a maximum recommended usage of around 4 hours.
Outdoor Use Only: Allethrin devices should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas. Never use them indoors.
The Bottom Line:
While allethrin devices can be effective for mosquito control in certain situations, the potential risks, especially for children, make them a less desirable option for families with young kids. Prioritize safer and better-researched repellents for your children, particularly those designed for use on skin or clothing.
Safe and Effective Mosquito Repellents for Kids (Picaridin, IR-3535, DEET, and OLE/PMD)
Picaridin:
Photo by Sierra Wilde
What it is: A plant-derived chemical repellent safe for babies 2 months and older.
Why you'll love it:
Long-lasting protection (8-14 hours)
Repels ticks, mosquitoes, and some flies
Nearly odorless and doesn't irritate skin
Safe for pregnant and nursing moms
Safe for use on clothing and gear
Things to consider:
Not safe for dogs
Where to buy:
IR-3535:
What it is: A synthetic chemical repellent safe for babies 2 months and older.
Why you'll love it:
Effective for 4-8 hours
Repels mosquitoes and most ticks
Safe for pregnant and nursing women
Safe for dogs
Environmentally friendly
Things to consider:
Doesn't repel flies
Shelf life is about 2 years
Where to buy:
Get Avon's Skin So Soft or Zevo On Body Bug Spray now
DEET (10-30%):
What it is: A synthetic chemical repellent safe for babies 2 months and older. Use concentrations of 30% or less.
Why it can be a good option:
Effective against ticks, mosquitoes, and flies
Offers varying levels of protection depending on the concentration
Important Safety Information:
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, when using insect repellent on children 2 months and older, the concentration of DEET should be 30% or less to help prevent the spread of diseases like West Nile, Lyme, Zika, and more
Follow product label instructions carefully
Can damage plastics
Toxic to dogs
Learn more:
Where to buy:
Get OFF FamilyCare Smooth & Dry Bug Spray (15% DEET) now
Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE/PMD) (30%):
What it is: A plant-derived chemical repellent safe for children 3 years and older.
Why you might choose it:
Repels some ticks, mosquitoes, and flies
Plant-derived
Things to consider:
Not as thoroughly studied as DEET
May cause mild skin irritation in some people
Not recommended for children under 3, pregnant or nursing women, or dogs
Can damage plastics
Learn more:
Where to buy:
Permethrin (for Clothing and Gear):
What it is: A plant-derived chemical repellent and insecticide for treating clothing and gear. Do not apply directly to skin.
Why it's helpful:
Repels ticks and mosquitoes
Safe for use on children's gear and clothing (3+ months)
Safe for use around dogs (with precautions)
Important Considerations:
Do not use on baby’s clothing, or gear, if under 3 months
Do not apply directly to skin
Use with caution if pregnant or nursing
Harmful to aquatic life
How long it lasts:
Up to 70 washes for pre-treated clothing
Up to 6 washes for user-treated clothing
Loses effectiveness after 6 weeks of outdoor exposure
Where to buy:
As parents, we all want what's best for our kids, and that includes keeping them safe from bug bites. We know how overwhelming it can be to choose the right bug spray, so we hope this post has taken some of the guesswork out of the equation. To help you make the best decision for your family, we've put together a free printable guide. Download "Which Bug Repellent is Right for You? A Printable Guide" for a quick and simple way to compare different options and enjoy a bite-free summer!
Best Bug Spray for Kids: A Printable Comparison Chart
As a parent, you’re juggling a lot. Choosing the right bug spray for your kids can be confusing, especially when you have little ones of different ages, or if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. This free printable chart makes it easy! Quickly compare safe and effective options side-by-side to find the perfect protection for everyone in your family. Download it now and keep it handy - like in the diaper bag or on your fridge - so you can check it whenever you need.
