Best Bug Sprays for Babies

reviewed mark Medically Reviewed by Jesil Pazhayampallil, M.D., F.A.A.P.  | January 12, 2024
bug sprays for babies and toddlers

Nothing will send you running inside on a nice summer night faster than pesky, persistent mosquitos. Although a good bug spray can help protect you from masses of itchy bites, you may wonder if it’s suitable for your baby’s sensitive skin.

The short answer: The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says you can use bug spray on your baby — as long as she's at least 2 months of age and the formula doesn’t contain more than 30 percent DEET (an ingredient used in lots of bug sprays used to ward off mosquitos, ticks and chiggers). Also important to know: Insect repellents that contain oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol / p-Menthane-3,8-diol (PMD) are not recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for children under 3 years old.

But the specifics on using bug spray on babies gets a little complex from there. Here’s everything parents and caregivers need to know.

How we chose the best bug sprays for babies

  • We spoke to Leah Alexander, M.D., F.A.A.P, a pediatrician based in New Jersey, and Tina Feeley, M.D., M.P.H., a pediatrician based in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts and member of the What to Expect Medical Review Board, to learn the benefits of bug spray for babies, how to properly apply it and what ingredients to look for (and avoid) when shopping for baby bug sprays. Per their advice, as well as guidance from the AAP and the CDC, the bug sprays on our list: 
    • Are not in pressurized cans
    • Contain DEET concentrations of 30 percent or less 
    • Don’t contain OLE or PMD, which are not safe for kids under 3 years
  • We combed through reviews and comments from What to Expect Community parents, who have shared intel about the bug sprays for babies that have worked well for them.

Factors to consider when choosing bug sprays for babies

  • Application type: There are lots of different types of bug spray, but the AAP says parents should use sticks, lotions and unpressurized sprays. Sticks and lotions are more targeted, but you’ll need more for full coverage. Sprays are easier to apply, but if you’re not diligent, you may miss some spots. Avoid using them in enclosed areas so you don’t breathe them in.
  • Duration: The concentration of DEET directly correlates to how long the product is effective. A higher concentration works for a longer amount of time. According to the AAP, you can expect 10 percent DEET to provide about two hours of protection, while 30 percent DEET provides about five hours of protection. Meanwhile, 20 percent picaridin translates to about 12 hours of protection. 
  • Size: Some families may need travel sizes that are easier to transport, while others will need a larger supply for more frequent application. Think about your lifestyle: Do you live in an area that has a high concentration of mosquitoes, ticks and other insects? Does your family spend a lot of time outdoors? If yes, you may want to invest in a larger product. 

How to protect babies from bug bites

Bug bites aren’t just itchy and irritating — they can also transmit diseases like Lyme disease and the Zika virus, which means it’s important to keep your baby protected in buggy areas. Dressing your little one in lightweight long sleeves and pants, using mosquito netting over strollers and carriers and avoiding scented soaps or sprays (because they can attract insects) are all good ways to ward off bites.

However, infants may benefit from insect repellents in situations where they are at an increased risk of insect bites that could result in infections — like if you live in or are visiting areas where mosquito-borne illnesses (such as the Zika virus or dengue) are common, says Dr. Alexander. (The same goes for areas where tick-borne illnesses, such as Lyme disease, are prevalent.) Of course, an insect repellent can also be used when those tiny insects are swarming to keep your little one more comfortable during an outdoor activity with the family.

What type of bug spray is safe for babies? 

When selecting bug spray for your child, it’s prudent to follow safety guidelines and choose the right formula. There are a few different types on the market:

  • DEET: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the organization that regulates insect repellents, says DEET is safe for use on babies — if parents follow directions on the label to use the product safely. It is also one of the most effective bug repellents on the market. (As mentioned earlier, you should not use DEET on babies younger than 2 months.) Again, the percentage of DEET in a product indicates how long the spray will be effective. A higher concentration works for a longer period of time — so 10 percent DEET provides protection for about two hours, whereas 30 percent DEET protects for about five hours. Although the latter may seem preferable, the AAP and EPA says higher concentrations can cause skin rashes in children, especially those with sensitive skin, so experts suggest using less concentrated formulas. It should also be used only once per day on children, per the AAP.
  • Picaridin: Other insect repellents contain picaridin — an ingredient that’s also considered safe by the EPA. Like DEET, this ingredient deters biting insects like mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, chiggers and biting flies. The percentage of picaridin in a product also correlates to how long you’ll be protected from insects. Five percent translates to about three to four hours’ protection from mosquitos and ticks, while 20 percent protects you for up to 12 hours. Picaridin products typically have a recommended age of 6 months and up. 
  • Plant-based oils: These "natural" insect repellents include oils and/or ingredients like citronella, geranium, peppermint and soybean oil. While they are considered safe, experts say their efficacy has not been proven by the EPA, so they aren’t recommended if there is a health concern in your area. They can also potentially cause skin irritation. Many of these natural products say on the label that they’re not meant for babies younger than 6 months of age.

You might also find some products that are bug spray-sunscreen combos. Although this might sound like a good idea in theory, the AAP recommends avoiding these products since you need to reapply sunscreen far more often than you should put on bug spray. This may lead to excessive exposure to DEET, which might increase risk of skin irritation, allergic reaction and other adverse effects. 

The AAP also says that popular non-DEET products, like bug-repelling bracelets or ultrasonic bug-repelling devices, have not been proven to be effective. If you choose these products, keep in mind that they might not work well — so purchase with caution. 

It’s also important to apply bug spray only to exposed skin and on clothes (not under clothes, and never to their hands) and to wash it off when your little one comes inside. Parents should also wash kids’ clothes before wearing them again to prevent skin sensitivity, says Dr. Feeley.

How to safely apply bug spray to babies

Applying bug spray correctly not only increases efficacy, but also keeps your little one safe. Always read the label and follow directions outlined. The AAP also says you should only apply insect repellents in open areas on the outside of your child's clothing and on exposed skin—not under clothing. (Never apply bug spray to open wounds or broken or eczematous skin. Cover those areas with light clothing instead.) 

You don’t need a lot, either — just enough to cover your child's clothing and exposed skin. If using a spray, don’t use it directly on your child’s face. Instead, spritz some on your hands first, then gently apply to your little one’s face (avoiding her mouth, eyes and nostrils). And never apply bug repellent of any kind to your kids’ hands, since little ones have a tendency to put their hands in their mouths and rub their eyes. When using both sunscreen and insect repellent, apply sunscreen first, then your bug spray. 

When playtime is over, wash your child’s skin with soap and water to remove any traces of repellent and wash her clothing before she wears it again. And if you live in areas with lots of tick activity, check for ticks on your little one’s hair and skin before coming inside.

Below, the best insect repellents for babies and toddlers.

Why Trust Us?

What to Expect is the world’s most trusted pregnancy and parenting brand for a reason. Our product recommendations are based on expert parent insight, advice from medical professionals and feedback from the millions of parents and parents-to-be in our community. Our editors adhere to the highest research and reporting standards and our team of vetted OB/GYNs, pediatricians and other health professionals ensure our recommended products are safe and effective for you and your baby.

Best Overall Bug Spray for Babies

Avon Skin-So-Soft Bug Guard

avon skin so soft bug guard pump spray
Buying Options
Pros
  • Oil-free
  • contains skin-soothing ingredients
  • pleasing scent
Cons
  • More expensive than others
Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

This bug spray from Avon is a worthy option, especially for parents looking for a DEET-free formula. It contains 10 percent picaridin to ward off mosquitos for eight hours, and other bugs for six hours. Parents say it’s an incredibly effective formula. “I am a mosquito magnet… Avon Skin So Soft bug spray is the only thing that works for me,” says one WTE mom. The spray won’t leave skin parched thanks to aloe and vitamin E, which rehydrate and keep skin smooth. It also has a nice, gentle smell that won’t bother babies. Just remember to wash it off once you get home.

Recommended age: Ask your doctor before using on babies under 6 months

Type: Picaridin

Size: 4 ounces

Community Reviews
  • Avon Skin So Soft also does a nice job of repelling them. I haven’t been bitten in almost six years...” 

  • "I’ve always used skin so soft from Avon. ...The smell is good and it seems to work pretty good"

Best Natural Bug Spray for Babies

Babyganics Natural Insect Repellent Spray

babyganics natural insect repellent
Buying Options
Pros
  • Smells good
  • comes in a variety of sizes
Cons
  • Greasy
  • might irritate skin
  • not ideal for super young babies
Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Many What to Expect parents rely on the Babyganics brand for diaper cream, lotions and other baby care needs — and they love the brand’s bug spray, too. “Babyganics has the best and most effective bug spray,” says one mom. The aerosol-free spray uses rosemary, citronella, peppermint, lemongrass and geranium oils as a natural way to ward off unwanted bugs (although as mentioned earlier, these types of botanicals are not fully proven to repel insects).

What to Expect staffers swear by this spray, too. "I like that this repellent is made with natural essential oils -- so I feel ok about slathering it on my kids' skin. The scent is pretty pleasant, too. It does help to reduce bites if you continue to reapply," says Shelley Gingrich, Executive Director, Brand Solutions at What to Expect. "Definitely agree that the smell was a lot more pleasant than other options, and I felt good about putting an all-natural repellent on my small child. It definitely kept away mosquitoes, which was our main worry when we were camping in the Sierras," adds Joyce Slaton, Commerce Editor for What to Expect.

Just note that it’s not meant for babies younger than 6 months, and all oils in the formula give it a greasy quality that some parents didn’t enjoy. And if you’re in an area with a high risk of insect-transmitted diseases, the AAP recommends using DEET or picaridin formulas instead for more reliable protection.

Recommended age: 6 months and up 

Type: Natural

Volume: 6, 8 ounces

Community Reviews
  • I bought the babyganics... It works BUT it’s crazy greasy. I had to shower before I got in bed” 

  • This is the one I used with my first son when he was under a year and I still do , I even use it because it doesn’t smell bad it smells like lemongrass, it’s made with organic ingredients and it really works!! I took it to Mexico during the summer and mosquitos are crazy over there but I didn’t get bitten.” 

Best Bug Spray Wipes

Cutter All Family Mosquito Wipes

cutter all family mosquito wipes
Buying Options
Amazon
Amazon
$7 for one pack
See Now Opens a new window
Pros
  • Easy to apply
  • convenient to travel with
Cons
  • Each pack goes fast
Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

When your baby is squirming every which way, you may find bug spray wipes more convenient. Since there’s no spray involved, you can hold your little one and deliver a more targeted application, no matter how much he moves. The wipes are oil free and don’t leave behind a greasy feeling on your baby’s skin. And since these wipes are only 7.15 percent DEET (well within the range recommended by the AAP), they're perfectly safe for your little one. Each wipe promises up to two hours of protection against mosquitoes and ticks, ideal for short outings.

Recommended age: Not specified (but AAP says 2 months and up for bug spray in general)

Type: DEET

Size: 3 ounces, 15 wipes

Community Reviews
  • I use Cutter Family Wipes. They’re easy to apply and dry quickly.” 

Best Travel-Sized Bug Spray

California Baby Natural Bug Blend Bug Repellent Spray

california baby 2 oz bug spray
Buying Options
Pros
  • Perfect size for a carry-on
Cons
  • Not all parents love the smell
  • not ideal for very young babies
Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

If you’re looking for a bug spray you can take in a carry on, check out this natural formula from California Baby — a favorite baby care brand among the What to Expect community. The insect repellent is DEET- and picaridin-free, using instead essential oils like lemongrass, cedar and citronella to ward off bugs. “It’s our favorite because it actually works and doesn’t smell horrific like the store brand ones,” raves one WTE community mom. Another mom reports that she always uses this brand on her kids.

It’s available in a 2-ounce bottle — perfect for TSA! — and the sprayer locks with just a twist to avoid unwanted leakage in your bag. (Just remember that the AAP does not recommend these types of formulas if there’s a health concern for insect-borne diseases in your area.)

Recommended age: 6 months and up

Type: Natural

Size: 2 or 6.5 ounces

Community Reviews
  • I use California Baby bug repellant on my kids, and it works great.” 

  • I use the California Baby repellant. It's essential oil-based and smells like lemongrass.

Best Value Bug Spray

Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent

off deep woods bug spray pump
Pros
  • Affordable
  • non-greasy
Cons
  • Strong smell
Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

If you’re planning on hiking or traveling to places where insect-transmitted diseases are common, you’ll want something that will give you the best possible protection from bugs. Enter Off! Deep Woods, which is 25 percent DEET to provide up to eight hours of protection from mosquitos. (It also repels ticks, biting flies and other annoying pests). You get a lot of product for what you pay for (typically under $10 for 6 ounces) and it’s easy to find at lots of retailers. Just be sure to buy the spray pump, not the aerosol version, as the latter is not recommended by the AAP for children.

Recommended age: Not listed (but 2 months and up, per the AAP)

Type: DEET

Size: 6 or 9 ounces

Community Reviews
  • I live in Louisiana and our mosquitoes are ridiculous. Anything with DEET should be fine. I use Off Deep Woods during peak mosquito season.” 

  • Off deep woods spray always works for us. She’s gets eaten up without it” 

Best Bug Spray Lotion

Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent Lotion

sawyer products picaridin insect repellent lotion
Pros
  • No smell
  • works well
  • not greasy
Cons
  • Small size
Why We
Love it
Community
Reviews
Why We Love It

Some parents find that an insect repellent lotion is easier to ensure full coverage against bug bites. Enter the highly-rated Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent lotion, which is recommended by What to Expect staffers. "I found this lotion a couple of years ago after researching mosquito repellent ingredients,” says Stephanie Porter, Creative Director, Brand at What to Expect. “I’m a mosquito MAGNET and they don’t get me with that lotion on, and it works great on my kids too."

This formula is 20 percent picaridin to ensure up to 14 hours of protection from mosquitos and ticks, and up to eight hours protection from biting flies and other pests. Parents love how easy it is to apply. “It's not greasy, and absorbs really well. It also doesn't have a smell to it, which is nice,” adds Porter.

Recommended age: 6 months and up

Type: Picaridin

Size: 4 ounces

Community Reviews
  • 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent works great when I put it on my daughter. She never gets bites with it on.” 

  • American Academy of Pediatrics, Choosing an Insect Repellent for Your Child, July 2022.
  • American Academy of Pediatrics, Red Book: 2021-2024 Report of the Committee on Infectious Diseases, 32nd Ed., 2021.
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Prevent Mosquito Bites, November 2022.
  • National Pesticide Information Center, Picaridin General Fact Sheet, December 2009.
  • United States Environmental Protection Agency, DEET, September 2022.
  • United States Environmental Protection Agency, New Pesticide Fact Sheet: Picaridin, May 2005.
  • Leah Alexander, M.D., F.A.A.P., Pediatrician, Fair Lawn, New Jersey.
  • Tina Feeley, M.D., F.A.A.P., Pediatrician, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts.