Using Insect Repellents for Kids

As warmer weather invites more outdoor playtime for your child, protecting them from insect bites that can cause discomfort and spread illnesses such as West Nile virus and Lyme disease is important.

Here’s a simple guide to using insect repellent safely:

For babies under 2 months, skip the repellent entirely. For children between 2 and 12 months, use a repellent with up to 20% DEET (diethyltoluamide). For those over 12 months, you can use up to 30% DEET, but avoid higher concentrations.

When applying repellent, stick to exposed skin and outer clothing, avoiding areas under clothing. Be careful to steer clear of the eyes, mouth, and any cuts or irritated skin. Instead of spraying directly on the face, apply a small amount to your hands first, then gently spread it on your child’s face.

Always have an adult apply the repellent to prevent accidental ingestion. After outdoor play, wash the repellent off with soap and water.

Skip combination products that mix DEET with sunscreen since sunscreen needs to be reapplied frequently, while repellent should be used sparingly. Natural repellents like citronella or peppermint oils aren’t proven to protect against serious insect-borne illnesses.

If your child has a reaction like a rash, stop using the repellent and wash their skin right away. Contact your pediatrician if needed. To further protect your child, keep your environment safe by removing standing water and ensuring door and window screens are in good shape.