10 Best Insect Repellent For Kids 2025 in the United States

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.

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.

Avon Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus Picaridin Towelettes offer a DEET-free option for protecting kids from mosquitoes, ticks, and other biting insects. The active ingredient, Picaridin, is effective yet gentler on the skin compared to DEET, making these towelettes suitable for sensitive skin and children. The product comes in convenient individual wipes stored in a resealable bag, making it easy to apply and carry during outdoor activities.

The formula is oil-free, unscented, and dermatologist-tested, which adds to its appeal for families concerned about skin irritation or strong chemical smells. It covers a broad range of insects, including no-see-ums and deer ticks, which are common concerns for outdoor play and travel. One potential drawback is that wipes may offer slightly less coverage than sprays, so thorough application is important. Also, if longer-lasting or stronger protection is needed, some might prefer repellents containing DEET.

These towelettes provide a practical and skin-friendly choice for parents seeking easy-to-use, reliable insect protection for kids during outdoor adventures.