Finding an insect repellent that's right for your children can feel like a bit of a minefield. You want to keep those pesky bugs at bay whilst keeping the little ones happy, which is easier said than done when there are so many options to pick from.
So, where do you start? Here’s our advice on what to consider when you’re picking a repellent for your kids.
7 child-friendly insect repellent features to look out for
1. Check age suitability
The first thing you’ll want to check is if a repellent is suitable for your children, from babies and toddlers through to young adults.
Different active ingredients and formulations have different minimum ages, so it’s always a good idea to check the label for minimum ages and any restrictions — a product suitable for older children may not be appropriate for young infants.
And don’t forget to consider the entire family. If you can get one product that’s suitable for the age ranges of the children and adults in your family, then you’re onto a winner. No more buying and carrying multiple repellents!
2. Look at the ingredients
You’re going to want to know exactly what you’re putting on your children’s skin, so always look at what different insect repellents are made from.
Three common common ingredients you’ll see are chemical-derived DEET and icaridin (picaridin), and plant-based Citriodiol. Both synthetic and natural ingredients will vary in their effectiveness and level of protection offered, so it’s good to compare them to see what best fits your needs.
3. Consider sensitive skin
If you have children that have skin that’s prone to irritation, dryness or itching, finding a gentle repellent is just as important as finding one that’s effective.
Check the full ingredient list for anything that your children have previously reacted to, including perfumes and fragrances. Even some natural repellents can cause irritation or allergic reactions.
Before using an insect repellent, speak with a pharmacist or healthcare professional for further advice.
Avoid applying repellent to broken or irritated skin, around the eyes and mouth.
Stop if irritation occurs and seek appropriate medical advice if symptoms are persistent or severe.
4. See how long an application lasts
If you’re on the go, the last thing you’re going to want to do is constantly reapply insect repellent. So checking to see how long a single application lasts is top of the list.
Protection times can vary, with some repellents only offering up to 4 hours of protection whilst others keep your little ones bite free for up to 11 hours. Effectiveness also depends on insect species, so doing your homework here is essential, especially if you’re going to an area that has high populations of a specific biting insect.
5. Weigh in your environment and activities
If you do a lot of water sports or have kids that run around until they’re pools of sweat, then an insect repellent that handles itself well in wet environments will be top of the priority list.
When you’re comparing bug sprays, look for ones that are better for outdoor activities, that are sweat resistant or water-resistant/waterproof, meaning you don’t have to worry about reapplying every 5 minutes or using more repellent than you need.
6. Pick an application method your children will prefer
Finding a repellent is one half of the battle, the other is actually getting it on, especially if you have fussy children or those who have sensitive skin. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most common types:
| Type | Camo | Jungle Formula |
|---|---|---|
| Sprays | Cover large areas very quickly | Can't apply directly to face |
| Lotions and creams | More targeted application | Usually leaves a thick, sticky residue |
| Roll ons | More targeted application | Takes longer to apply |
| Wristbands and bracelets | Easy to slip on and off | You don't have full-body coverage |
Whatever method you take, we recommend:
- Applying repellent before your child gets restless or excited about an activity — the wriggles are real!
- Explaining what you're doing and letting older children choose their preferred method of application.
- Avoid applying more product than the instructions outline.
7. Think about your children’s clothes
If you’ve ever been on holiday, you’ll appreciate how frustrating it is when your clothes are stained with suntan lotion. And unfortunately the same applies for many insect repellents.
Some synthetic ingredients and formulations can stain and damage certain fabrics, plastics or other materials. So, check the label before applying any insect repellents on clothing, sunglasses or outdoor equipment to see if there’s any risk, and see what the manufacturer recommends in case there is any staining.
Choose the right children’s bug spray
Finding the right insect repellent for your children is all about finding the sweet spot between effective protection, skin comfort and peace of mind. By checking the minimum age, understanding the active ingredients, considering sensitive skin and choosing a formula that's easy to apply, you can make a more informed decision about what's right for your family.
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