The Best Bug Sprays to Keep Your Baby Bite-Free All Summer

No one likes getting bug bites. Even worse is seeing your little one suffer from itchy mosquito bites or a latched-on tick. And with the different diseases that insects can transmit, including Zika and West Nile virus from mosquitoes and Lyme disease from ticks, insect repellent should be top-of-mind before any outdoor adventure (second only to a great sunscreen, of course)–especially in the summer.

But can you even use insect repellant on babies? Thankfully, yes. This list breaks down all the main bug repellent ingredients as well as safe-use recommendations for pregnancy, babies and children. Before you take your little one to the great outdoors, here’s how to keep you and your family safe from annoying bites and potential disease.

Continue reading to learn more about the best bug sprays for your baby, written by Amylia Ryan.

LAST UPDATED

February 7, 2025

Written by
Photo thumbnail Blog Author

Baby List

Media Mentions from Baby List

At Babylist, we put parents first. We provide practical support and unbiased guidance to help new parents make decisions with confidence and get things done.

Babylist is the baby registry that lets you register for exactly what you want for your baby from the retailers of your choice - including your favorite local or independent shops (like Etsy).

Explore More Content

Media Mentions

Whether for gardening, mowing or warm evenings outside, we found Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent to be an excellent choice in every setting.

Health
Media Mentions from Health

Media Mentions

The efficacy of DEET without harsh chemicals. Sawyer Picardin Insect Repellent is our go-to skin protection against mosquitos and ticks. We prefer the lotion to the spray-on, which lasts 8-14 hours.

Adventure Alan
Media Mentions from Adventure Alan

Media Mentions

We recommend this lotion from Sawyer for its effectiveness, thorough application, and easily transportable bottle.

Real Simple
Media Mentions from Real Simple