10 Best Bug Sprays for Kids 2020

One of the most difficult things to deal with as a parent is the exploratory nature of children; as much as we’d just love to let our kids run around and play, we also know that there are more dangers around than our little ones can recognize. For instance, the lush green grass that kids love to roll and play in is often home to some dangerous disease-carrying bugs.

Because no parent wants to stifle their children when it comes to playing and exploration, finding ways to protect them while still allowing them to discover the world around them is the best possible solution. In the case of bugs and insects, defending your child is as simple as covering in them in the best bug spray for kids. Not sure which one is right for your little playful persons? Find out here.

Top 10 Bug Sprays for Kids Chart

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1. OFF!® FamilyCare Insect Repellent lll, Tropical Fresh, 6 fl ozSpray$$4.4
2. Cutter All Family Insect Repellent (Pump Spray) (HG-51070) (6 fl oz) Spray$$4.1
3. All Terrain Kids Herbal Armor DEET-Free Natural Insect RepellentSpray$4.0
4. Lafe's Baby Organic Insect Repellent, 4 Ounce Spray$$4.0
5. LureLux Natural Bug Repellent DEET-Free 8oz Spray Repel Mosquitoes & Insects - Kids SafeSpray$$$$4.0
6. Simba Natural Mosquito Repellent Sticker (16pcs) with Citronella and Lemon Extract Sticker$$3.8
7. Cliganic Natural Mosquito Repellent Bracelet Waterproof | 10 Pack | Bug & Insect Protection Bracelet$$$$3.8
8. Vitchelo Keep Bugs Away w/ VITCHELO Citronella Bracelet DEET & Picaridin FREE Bracelet$$$3.7
9. Creekside Natural Therapeutics INSECT ARMOUR---5 oz. All Natural Safe for Children Insect Repellent Spray$$$3.7
10. Babyganics Natural DEET-Free Insect Repellent, 6oz Spray Bottle (Pack of 2) Spray$$$3.6

Note: Some of the options on the chart are not spray-on insect repellents and are instead insect repellent stickers and bracelets. These are specifically designed for kids for the same purpose.

Consider This When Buying Bug Spray for Your Kids

Common sense would tell you that all bug sprays should generally be the same and regarding function, they pretty much are. The difference lies in the effects of their formulation, as well as the way your child might react to the solution itself. That said, there are some specifics you may want to look into when making a purchase to make sure you get nothing but the best bug spray for kids.

  • Spray Versus Stickers and Bracelets. The first thing that comes to parents’ minds when figuring out a way to prevent bugs from biting their babies is bug spray. These options are perfect for bigger kids who love playing outdoors, or who are simply exposed to the dangers of insect bites. A thorough coating of bug spray will leave a protective barrier over the child’s skin, which makes it unsafe for bugs and insects to make contact.

Another popular option, however, is the bracelet or sticker bug repellent. Some kids don’t like the feeling left behind by bug spray or bug lotion, while others risk ingesting the formula while it is on their skin. This is particularly true for kids in the oral exploratory phase at around two years old and under, which is the time when all things are inspected with the mouth. By using a sticker or bracelet, the child will be protected and avoid ingesting any substances, but keep in mind that a bug repellent bracelet may not be as potent as sprays.

  • Specific Insects. Not all insects are avoidant of the same chemicals. For instance, ticks and fleas may not be repelled by the same ingredients used to repel mosquitoes. For that reason, it is important to consider what kinds of insects your child might come into contact with so you can choose the best bug spray for kids in your specific situation. There are some sprays and repellents that target multiple kinds of bugs; however, so if you want to be able to give your child over-all protection, make sure to read the labels.

Top 3 Best Bug Spray for Kids Reviews

1. OFF!® FamilyCare Insect Repellent lll, Tropical Fresh

OFF! is potentially one of the biggest brands when it comes to bug repellents, and their FamilyCare Insect Repellent is easily the top bug spray for kids according to consumer reviews. This spray is specifically formulated to repel mosquitoes, gnats, chiggers, and other biting insects to keep your little ones safe and bite-free.

The FamilyCare spray is a low-DEET solution that incorporates a light tropical fresh scent that prevents discomfort caused by other products that smell like chemicals. Effects can last for up to two hours after application, and can effectively repel insects for the duration of its effectiveness.

When it comes right down to it, the OFF! FamilyCare Insect Repellent gets the job done effectively. Plus, at a very affordable price, it’s never a problem to have more than one bottle in stock in your home.

2. Cutter All Family Insect Repellent

Another popular choice in the bug spray department is Cutter All Family Insect Repellent. This safe, family-friendly product is known to eliminate the chances of getting mosquito bites, lasting for up to three hours after application. The formula is highly effective and causes zero skin irritation on even the most sensitive kids.

Cutter All Family Insect Repellent is highly effective for repelling mosquitoes but falls short when it comes to other bugs such as gnats and fleas. So unless you’re dealing with just mosquitoes, this product may not provide your kids the protection you want. Another thing to keep in mind is that the formula can feel sticky on the skin. For kids that are particularly sensitive, this can make them feel restless until they shower.

3. All Terrain Kids Herbal Armor Insect Repellent

Moms and dads looking for an all-natural and 100% safe product for their babies and kids will love All Terrain Kids Herbal Armor DEET-Free Natural Insect Repellent. This formulation is made from completely organic ingredients and has been tested to cause zero side effects and allergic reactions.

The formula is very mild on skin and doesn’t leave an uncomfortable feeling on the surface after application. Results can last up to 3 hours, but because the ingredients are all-natural, it may not be quite as effective as other clinically developed products.