10 Best Mosquito Repellent For Kids 2025 in the United States

The Sawyer Products SP565 Premium Insect Repellent is a lotion-based mosquito repellent containing 20% Picaridin. It's particularly suitable for kids due to its non-greasy, fragrance-free formulation and quick-drying properties. The lotion is gentle on the skin, making it less likely to cause irritation even for those with sensitive skin. The pump dispenser also offers a convenient application method, especially for parents managing young children.

One of the key strengths is its long-lasting protection – it offers up to 14 hours of defense against mosquitoes and ticks, and up to 8 hours against flies, gnats, and chiggers. This makes it an excellent option for day-long outdoor activities and adventures. Additionally, it does not damage plastics or synthetic coatings, so it is safe to use on clothing and gear like backpacks and watches, which is a big plus for active families.

However, at 2.2 pounds and a quart volume, it may be considered bulky for carrying around during trips, and some might prefer a smaller, travel-friendly size. For families looking for a safe, effective, and skin-friendly mosquito repellent, this product is a strong contender.

The Sawyer Products SP5442 Picaridin Insect Repellent is a strong choice for families, particularly for kids, given its active ingredient, Picaridin, which is known for its effectiveness against a range of pests. The repellent promises up to 12 hours of protection from mosquitoes and ticks, and 8 hours from flies, gnats, and chiggers, making it ideal for long outdoor activities.

Being non-greasy, fragrance-free, and quick-drying, it's comfortable for daily use and won't damage clothing or accessories, which is a big plus for children who are often on the move. Additionally, its 20% Picaridin formulation is noted for being more effective than DEET against certain biting flies, and it offers protection from serious diseases like Lyme and Zika viruses.

However, while its effectiveness and long duration are significant strengths, one potential drawback is that it might need reapplication, especially for activities extending beyond 8-12 hours. Users with highly sensitive skin should also do a patch test first, even though it's designed to be skin-friendly. Although it is marketed as safe for the whole family, always ensure to apply it as directed for kids to maximize safety and efficacy.

The Repel Plant-Based Lemon Eucalyptus Insect Repellent is a good choice for families looking for a DEET-free mosquito repellent for kids. With oil of lemon eucalyptus as its active ingredient, it offers a more natural alternative to chemical-based repellents. It boasts up to 6 hours of protection, making it suitable for both short outings and more extended outdoor activities.

The refreshing lemon scent is a pleasant change from the typical bug spray odor, and the non-greasy formula ensures that it’s comfortable on the skin. Some users may find that its effectiveness varies depending on the environment and level of mosquito activity. Additionally, since it’s an oil-based spray, it might need reapplication more frequently in very hot or humid conditions where sweating is more intense.

This product stands out for its natural ingredients and skin-friendly formula, although families should be mindful of the potential need for more frequent reapplications in certain conditions.