The 10 Best Bug Sprays for Kids in 2021

What to Look for When Buying Bug Spray for Kids

Ingredients

Your child’s bug spray may contain a variety of ingredients, but pediatrician Whitney Casares, MD, MPH, notes “parents should avoid using products with more than 30 percent DEET” in them because, as pediatrician Dyan Hes, MD, explains, bug sprays with “more than [this do] not offer better protection". Another ingredient to be on the lookout for is permethrin.

While this ingredient is very effective at preventing tick bites, “Permethrin is an insecticide and it should not be applied directly to the skin,” says Dr. Hes, “but it is very safe in treated clothing". Understanding ingredients in bug sprays can be difficult, so here’s a breakdown of three different ingredients.

DEET

DEET is a chemical that’s been used as the most common ingredient in bug repellents for more than 50 years. There's a lot of uncertainty surrounding DEET because it’s a chemical, but it’s actually very safe to use as long as you’re using it correctly. 

• You only need to apply it once during a single day unless you’re spending time in a heavily wooded area.
• There is a drawback, though—some people do experience skin reactions from DEET, especially if it’s sprayed too close to the eyes.

Natural

There are many parents and caregivers who prefer to go the natural route when picking out bug spray for kids. 

• Natural ingredients, like citronella and lemon eucalyptus oil, are perfect for light protection against mosquitoes.
• If you plan on being in an area where mosquito- and tick-borne illnesses are present, though, you’ll want a stronger repellent. 

Picaridin

This pesticide repels insects, ticks, and chiggers, making them not want to bite.

• Repellents with this ingredient can work as well as repellents containing DEET. 
• While it is considered non-toxic to birds, it is moderately toxic to fish.

Effectiveness

You want to be sure that whatever bug spray you purchase for your family is actually effective at preventing bug bites. You can do this by doing your due diligence and reading user reviews. If you are going to be around a variety of bugs, like ticks and chiggers, DEET-based options are going to be the most effective. Dr. Casares notes these products “provide the best protection against insect bites.” This is especially important if you and your family will be outside for a long period of time. 

Application

Bug sprays come in many different forms, like spray, lotion, wipes, and wearables, so it can be tough to decide which application method works best for you and your family. 

Spray: Typically coming in some type of a bottle, you simply spray the repellent on any areas with exposed skin, or clothing, too. This method is easy to use and typically does not have to be rubbed into the skin. 

Lotion: Similar to applying sunscreen and regular lotion, you rub the lotion into any areas of the body not covered by clothes. You can typically cover more areas of the body when applying via a lotion method.

Wipes: Think of baby wipes, but in bug repellent form, as all you have to do is take a wipe and rub it along the areas with exposed skin. These are convenient since you can carry them in a bag or purse easily.

Wearables: Bug repellents that are wearable come in the form of jewelry-like products, such as a bracelet, and are filled with more natural ingredients, like citronella. These are ideal for kids as they are more likely to forget to apply a bug spray or do so ineffectively. However, they are a less effective method of insect repellent.

FAQs

Is bug repellent safe for kids?

Bug repellents are safe for kids over two months old. For young babies, Dr. Hes suggests parents “use netting over a stroller, crib, or play gym to protect [them] from mosquitos.”

For older kids, it’s safe to apply bug spray to exposed skin, however, “do not apply repellent directly to a child’s face,” explains Dr. Hes, “Rub it on your hands and then apply to the face, avoiding the eyes, nose, and mouth.”

Can toddlers use bug spray?

Yes, children over two months old can use bug spray, however, the application method is key. Dr. Casares says, “For kids over 2 months old, only use enough repellent to cover exposed areas of skin and clothing.” 

Why Trust Verywell Family?

Ashley Ziegler is a full-time parenting writer and mom to a 2-year-old and a 4-year-old and she has personal experience in researching and purchasing children’s products. Key considerations she used when selecting these recommendations include expert advice, ingredients, and user reviews.