10 Best Insect Repellent For Kids 2025 in the United States

The Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bracelets offer a natural, DEET-free way to keep mosquitoes away, using essential oils like citronella as active ingredients. These bracelets are convenient because they come individually wrapped and are easy to wear, making them a good choice for kids and adults alike. The stretchy bands adjust to fit most wrist sizes comfortably, which adds to their practicality for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, or visiting parks.

Since they rely on essential oils, they may be gentler on sensitive skin compared to chemical repellents, though those with very sensitive skin should still test them cautiously. As a non-chemical option, these bracelets are a handy, low-mess alternative but may not provide as strong or long-lasting protection as DEET-based products. They are well-suited for families seeking a simple, natural repellent for casual outdoor use, especially for kids who prefer not to use sprays.

The Sawyer SP5442 Picaridin Insect Repellent is a strong option for families looking for a safe and effective way to keep bugs away, including for kids. It uses 20% Picaridin as its active ingredient, which is known to repel mosquitoes, ticks, flies, and other pests without the strong smell or skin irritation sometimes caused by DEET. This makes it suitable for sensitive skin, including children’s, as it is fragrance-free, non-greasy, and dries quickly.

The repellent provides long-lasting protection—up to 12 hours against mosquitoes and ticks, and about 8 hours against flies and gnats—meaning fewer reapplications during outdoor activities. It comes in an easy-to-use aerosol spray that won't harm plastics or clothing, which is great for active kids who wear backpacks or sunglasses. One possible downside is that it is an aerosol, so younger children might need assistance during application to avoid inhaling the spray. Also, while the label states it’s safe for the whole family, parents should still test a small skin area first to ensure no reaction occurs.

This repellent carries high customer ratings and endorsements from trusted sources, indicating it is effective and well-liked. It fits well for families seeking a reliable, gentle product for daily outdoor use, such as playground visits, camping, or sports, especially when avoiding stronger chemicals is a priority.

BuzzPatch Mosquito Patch Stickers are a natural and kid-friendly option for keeping mosquitoes away. Made from plant-based ingredients like citronella essential oil, these patches avoid harsh chemicals such as DEET, making them a safer choice for toddlers and children, especially those with sensitive skin. The patches are easy to apply—just stick them on clothing or nearby—and their medical-grade, water-resistant adhesive means they stay put during outdoor activities.

Protection is strongest within the first 8 hours but can last up to 72 hours, though effectiveness may vary depending on conditions. Kids often enjoy the colorful smiley designs, which makes wearing them less of a hassle. The patches are lightweight and portable, ideal for travel, hikes, or everyday use in the yard or park.

While generally safe for babies from 2 years old, very young infants might need more cautious use. Additionally, some parents might find that the scent, centered on lavender and citronella, may not appeal to every child or could cause mild sensitivities. These patches provide a convenient, chemical-free way to protect kids from mosquitoes but may not replace stronger repellents needed in high-risk areas.