Can you put mosquito repellent on babies?
William Smith
Published May 25, 2026
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Likewise, what kind of insect repellent is safe for babies?
The American Academy of Pediatrics says that insect repellents containing deet are safe for children as young as 2 months. Bug repellents with deet come in varying strengths -- some contain up to 30-percent deet. A higher concentration of deet doesn't mean a product is stronger, only that it lasts longer.
Beside above, what can you put on babies to keep mosquitoes away? Once your baby is a little older, you can add repellent sprays and lotions to your bug-fighting kit. According to the CDC, insect repellent is the best way to protect your baby from mosquito bites -- as long as you use it correctly.
Babies Over 2 Months
- DEET.
- I5353.
- Picaridin.
Beside above, can mosquito repellent be used on infants?
The most common chemical that is used in mosquito repellent creams and lotions are DEET, IR3535, or picaridin. These do not only repel mosquitoes but work as baby safe bug repellents too. However, don't use any of these if your baby is less than 2 months old.
Can I use DEET on my baby?
The answer is yes. Insect repellents containing DEET have been tested and approved for kids when used as directed. You can use DEET-containing bug repellents on children ages 2 months and older, but there are some guidelines to follow: Products containing DEET should be used only once per day on children.
Related Question AnswersWhat is the safest mosquito repellent?
Picaridin is probably going to be your best bet. Ingredients with 20 percent picaridin were found to be just as effective and long-lasting as DEET at repelling Zika-carrying mosquitoes.I'm So Zika These Mosquitoes!
- DEET.
- Picaridin.
- IR3535.
- Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus / PMD.