Can You Use Bug Spray on Babies and Toddlers?
"My baby gets lots of bug bites when we go outside. Is it okay if I apply mosquito repellent? What kinds are safe for her?"
When masses of mosquitoes and other hordes of biting insects are on the attack (and have you ever known a summer without them?), it would certainly be nice to encase your baby in a giant, breathable, bug-resistant bubble, wouldn't it?
But unfortunately, that's not possible. To the rescue: bug spray and other insect repellents, which can offer some safe relief from those tiny biting beasties — if used carefully.
Safe and effective bug sprays and repellents for babies and toddlers
Effective insect and mosquito repellents come in many forms, from aerosols and sprays to liquids, creams and sticks. And the good news: A lot of them are safe for babies over 2 months old.
For the under-2-month set, bug repellent isn't recommended, though you might want to consider placing insect netting around your little one's stroller or bassinet for protection. Formulations for insect repellent generally fall into four main categories.
You can continue reading the repellent breakdown here.
October 21, 2024
What to Expect
Your go-to resource for preconception, pregnancy and parenting advice.
What to Expect is the world’s best-known, most trusted pregnancy and parenting brand, helping every parent know what to expect, every step of the way. Building on the bestselling What to Expect book series by Heidi Murkoff, What to Expect Digital reaches over 15 million parents and parents-to-be each month with its popular website and top-rated apps for Android, iOS, and Amazon Echo.
Explore More Content
Media Mentions
For clothing and gear (but not skin), Sawyer Products’s permethrin repellent is as effective as similar formulas at repelling ticks and mosquitoes, and its trigger spray is easier to control.
Media Mentions
Top Bug Repellent - Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent
Media Mentions
There's nothing worse than running out of water mid-hike, but with the Sawyer Mini Water Filtration System, you can make any fresh water ready to drink in minutes. It filters out everything from sediment to bacteria from the water, and can be a real lifesaver in a pinch.
From the Squad
Campfire conversations with our community, from Squad Members and Ambassadors to Brand Partners and the Sawyer team.
