Quick Facts – Bug Sprays for Kids
- EPA-registered repellents offer reliable protection for kids.
- Picaridin, DEET, and Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus are safe when used correctly.
- Consider reapplication time, scent, and ease of use before buying.
- Sawyer Picaridin is a strong all-round repellent for families.
- OFF! Family Care gives budget-friendly protection for daily use.
Kids love being outdoors, but mosquitoes and biting insects can turn playtime into a problem. With so many repellents available, choosing the best bug spray for kids can feel confusing. The good news is that safe, kid-friendly options do exist — including mild formulas, plant-based blends, and sprays tested for long wear.
Below, you’ll find the most effective bug sprays for children, plus clear tips to choose the right one.
Best Overall Bug Spray for Kids
Sawyer Insect Repellent (Picaridin)
Sawyer Insect Repellent stands out as a strong everyday choice. It uses picaridin, a CDC-recommended ingredient that provides effective protection without a greasy feel.
Why parents like it:
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Works against mosquitoes, ticks, flies, and more
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Easy to spray on skin or clothing
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Light scent that fades quickly
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Safe for frequent outdoor play
The compact bottle fits easily in a diaper bag or stroller, so you’re always ready for time outside.
You can watch a quick overview here:
(Video credit to Backcountry Exposure)
Best Budget-Friendly Family Repellent
OFF! Family Care Insect & Mosquito Repellent
Suppose you want reliable protection at a low price, OFF! Family Care is a good match. It contains DEET, which has been used safely for decades when applied correctly.
Great for:
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Picnics
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Short hikes
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Backyard activities
It sprays evenly and dries fast. However, always avoid DEET for babies under 2 months old.
(All images are AI-generated)
Best for Kids With Dry or Sensitive Skin
Cutter Skinsations Insect Repellent
Cutter Skinsations combines DEET with aloe and Vitamin E, making it gentle on skin while still offering protection.
Why it works well:
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Softens skin instead of drying it
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Pleasant scent compared to many sprays
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Effective against mosquitoes and ticks
Do a small patch test if your child has sensitive skin, since some may react.
Best for Gear or High-Bug Areas
Repel Sportsmen Max Formula
This option is better for outdoor trips where bugs are everywhere. It uses a higher level of DEET, so it lasts longer.
Best used on:
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Backpacks
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Tents
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Outer clothing
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Shoes
Because it’s strong, keep it off the skin and apply only in open areas.
(All images are AI-generated)
Best Clothing Pre-Treatment
Sawyer Permethrin Spray
Sawyer Permethrin is designed for clothing, hats, socks, and camping gear. Once applied, it stays effective for weeks — even after several washes.
Good for:
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Camping trips
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Scout activities
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Hiking
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Travel
Keep treated items away from cats until they are scorched. Some fabrics may darken slightly, so test a small area first.
Best Plant-Based Natural Option
REPEL Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent
This spray uses Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, a plant-derived ingredient approved by the CDC for kids over three years old.
Pros:
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Fresh scent
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Contains no synthetic chemicals
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Easy to apply
However, it does not last as long as picaridin or DEET, so expect to reapply more often.
Best Choice for Low-Risk Areas
Cutter Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent
Another plant-based pick, this repellent is suitable for areas with moderate mosquito activity.
Key notes:
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Natural scent
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Simple spray application
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Not ideal for heavy mosquito zones
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May irritate sensitive skin
Use a small patch test before applying widely.
Bug Spray Safety Tips for Kids
Choosing the right repellent is only part of the process. Using it safely matters as much.
Choose EPA-registered options
EPA-registered sprays are tested for safety and protection levels. Look for:
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Picaridin
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DEET
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Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE)
All three are approved for children when used as directed.
Avoid essential oil-heavy sprays for long trips
Plant-based sprays are mild but wear off faster and can irritate sensitive skin.
Follow age guidelines
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No DEET for babies under two months
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OLE is only for kids aged three and older
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Picaridin is mild enough for most ages, but always follow instructions
If your child has allergies or eczema, talk with a pediatrician before using new products.
Expert Tips for Choosing Bug Sprays for Kids
Dermatologists, toxicologists, and insect-science specialists agree on a few things:
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DEET and picaridin remain the most reliable options
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Natural sprays can work for quick trips, not for long outdoor days
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Reapply based on the label — not on guesswork
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EPA-registered formulas are the most dependable
Their advice ensures your child stays safe without exposing them to unnecessary risk.
FAQ
Sawyer Insect Repellent with picaridin is a strong overall choice. It protects well and is comfortable on the skin.
OFF! Family Care Insect & Mosquito Repellent gives good protection at a lower price.
Cutter Skinsations Repellent contains aloe and Vitamin E, which help keep the skin soft.
Repel Sportsmen Max Formula works well for high-bug environments. Use it only on gear, not skin.
Sawyer Permethrin Spray is ideal for treating clothing and gear. It stays effective even after several washes.
Plant-based sprays like REPEL Lemon Eucalyptus can work, but they do not last as long and may irritate sensitive skin.
It works well in low-risk areas. However, it may not give enough protection in regions with high mosquito activity.
Choose an EPA-registered formula, read the label, and follow age guidelines. Always apply it as directed.
Dermatologists and insect specialists can offer guidance based on your child’s skin type and local bug concerns.
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