Dear summer: We love you. But we don’t love those pesky mosquito bites that come along with you. As we’re entering prime mosquito month (thanks for the humidity, August), keeping the kids protected from incessant scratching and potential disease is of utmost importance. The only problem: Heavy-duty bug spray isn’t just unpleasant to wear and smell; it can also be harmful to the youngest members of the family. Make the most of the last few steamy, muggy weeks and load up on kid-friendly bug spray that’s safe enough for you and your tiny crew.
8 Bug Sprays That Are Safe Enough to Use on Kids
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Published Aug 6, 2019
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Kinfield
1. Kinfield Golden Hour Deet-free Repellent
Although not technically labeled as a children’s product, we love that this bug spray is made with all natural ingredients that are safe for both kids and adults. A unique strain of Indonesian citronella (yep, the same stuff in repellent candles) fends off mosquitoes and smells like a mix of vanilla and citrus.
Amazon
2. Avon Skin-so-soft Bug Guard Plus Ir3535 Insect Repellent Moisturizing Lotion - Spf 30
Sun protection and bug repellent in one moisturizing lotion—you’ll never have to worry about getting spray in the kids’ eyes or missing a spot.
Amazon
3. Badger Anti-bug Shake And Spray
Not only does this bug spray drive away insects, but it also smells like a refreshing blend of citronella, rosemary and wintergreen. So much better than the chemical scent of the sprays we grew up with.
Amazon
4. Greenerways Organic, Organic Bug Repellent, Deet-free
Concerned about more than just mosquitoes? This spray repels everything from ticks to biting flies to—of course—mosquitoes with a gentle blend of essential oils. One PureWow editor swears by it for daily use, because she's a mosquito magnet. She explains, "I literally put this stuff on before bed at night so that I don't wake up with a million mosquito bites. It smells really herbal, dries quickly and doesn't feel sticky whatsoever."
Amazon
5. Quantum Health Buzz Away Extreme Deet-free Insect Repellent, Essential Oil Bug Spray
Don’t just protect your family—keep the environment safe, too. This spray not only keeps ticks and mosquitoes away for hours, it also contains zero harsh chemicals that could cause harm to the planet.
Amazon
6. All Terrain Kids Deet-free Herbal Armor Insect Repellent
If your kid has sensitive skin, you know how hard it is to find non-irritating products. But this insect spray is one of them. Plus, it won’t stain or damage that cute matching set she’s wearing.
Amazon
7. California Baby Natural Bug Blend Bug Repellent Spray
Made with vegetable- and plant-based ingredients, this bug spray is non-irritating, non-toxic and safe for outdoorsy types of all ages. Bonus: If the kids have pre-existing bites, the natural ingredients in this repellent help to soothe itchy skin.
Buy It ($22)
Amazon
8. Burt's Bees 100% Natural Herbal Insect Repellent, Deet-free Bug Spray
We already love this brand for its hydrating lip balm and skin-care products, but now we love it even more for its 100 percent natural insect repellent. Apply this naturally scented spray liberally and rub it in to create a shield from summer’s most obnoxious mosquitoes and bugs.
