Best Bug Sprays for Babies

BEST BABY BUG SPRAYS

  • Best Overall Bug Spray for Babies : Avon Skin-So-Soft Bug Guard
  • Best Natural Bug Spray for Babies : Babyganics Natural Insect Repellent Spray
  • Best Bug Spray Wipes : Cutter All Family Mosquito Wipes
  • Best Travel-Sized Bug Spray : California Baby Natural Bug Blend Bug Repellent Spray
  • Best Value Bug Spray : Off! Deep Woods Insect Repellent
  • Best Bug Spray Lotion : Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent Lotion

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, written by Brigitt Earley.

LAST UPDATED

October 26, 2024

Written by
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Brigitt Earley

Brigitt Earley is a freelance writer and editor based in New Jersey. When she's not typing away, you can find Earley cooking something new, starting some new renovation or organization project at home, and playing with her four young children.

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