The Best Bug Spray for Kids to Keep Pests Away

Protect children from itchy welts and dangerous insect-borne viruses with the best bug spray for kids.

Protecting kids from biting insects during warmer months is important, especially with the potential for these bloodsuckers to carry dangerous illnesses such as Lyme disease, West Nile virus, and Zika virus. But identifying which active ingredients in bug sprays are safe for kids can be a confusing process. Some bug sprays use the powerful chemical DEET to repel bugs, while others employ more natural ingredients, such as picaridin or essential oils.

This guide explores the most important factors to consider when shopping for the best bug spray for kids, including demystifying these active ingredients, while reviewing some of the top-rated options on the market to keep pesky insects away from your children.

  1. BEST OVERALL: Sawyer Products 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent
  2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Natrapel Insect Repellent Spray
  3. BEST NATURAL: REPEL Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent
  4. BEST WIPES: Cutter Resealable Pouch, Family Mosquito Wipes
  5. BEST FOR SENSITIVE SKIN: Cutter Skinsations Insect Repellent Pump Spray


Explore the complete guide for best bug sprays for kids written by Tony Carrick here.

LAST UPDATED

October 18, 2024

Written by
Photo thumbnail Blog Author

Bob Vila

Media Mentions from Bob Vila

You probably know Bob Vila from TV, where for nearly 30 years he hosted a variety of shows: This Old House, Bob Vila’s Home Again, Bob Vila, and Restore America with Bob Vila. Or perhaps you caught Bob starring as himself on Tim Allen’s sit com, Home Improvement. You can now watch Bob's full TV episodes online.

Before his life in broadcasting, Bob launched his own residential remodeling and design business. Earlier still, he served as a Peace Corps volunteer, building houses and communities in Panama. He learned first-hand about home building from his father, who hand built their family home. He's written 12 books about remodeling your home, buying your dream home, and visiting historic homes across America. It’s fair to say that buildings, especially homes, are his life’s work.

Now he's breaking new ground on the web, at BobVila.com.

Explore More Content

Media Mentions

Jennifer Pharr Davis
Hiker, Speaker, Author

Media Mentions

“Our mission is for everyone in the world to have access to clean water,” maintained Beth.

KNA
KNA Press

Media Mentions

We tested four portable water filters and recommend the Sawyer Mini Water Filter.

Doug Mahoney and Joshua Lyon
Staff Writers