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10 Best Mosquito Repellent For Kids 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Sawyer Products SP565 Premium Insect Repellent with 20% Picaridin, 1-Quart Lotion Pump Dispenser,White

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,335
Active Ingredients
Form of Repellent
Duration of Effectiveness

Most important from
47083 reviews

Active Ingredients
Unlike DEET, it doesn't melt plastic and ruin your camera gear or telescope, making it a great alternative.
Form of Repellent
The pump works great, though the handle and stroke are very long, a full pump gives you a huge amount of the lotion.
Duration of Effectiveness
This stuff is awesome. I'm still using the same quart in 2024 that I bought in 2021. It lasts pretty much all day, and mosquitoes absolutely hate it.
Skin Sensitivity
No smell, no rashes, no side effects. In addition, no mosquitoes and no ticks. It has proven to be far superior to other sprays and lotions we've tried.

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.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,335
Active Ingredients
Form of Repellent
Duration of Effectiveness

Most important from
47083 reviews

Active Ingredients
Unlike DEET, it doesn't melt plastic and ruin your camera gear or telescope, making it a great alternative.
Form of Repellent
The pump works great, though the handle and stroke are very long, a full pump gives you a huge amount of the lotion.
Duration of Effectiveness
This stuff is awesome. I'm still using the same quart in 2024 that I bought in 2021. It lasts pretty much all day, and mosquitoes absolutely hate it.
Skin Sensitivity
No smell, no rashes, no side effects. In addition, no mosquitoes and no ticks. It has proven to be far superior to other sprays and lotions we've tried.
#2

Sawyer Products SP5442 Picaridin Insect Repellent, 4 Fl Oz (Pack of 2) - Packaging May Vary

Rating
9.8
Form of Repellent

Most important from
47081 reviews

Form of Repellent
Non-greasy and non-sticky application makes it comfortable to use.

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.

Rating
9.8
Form of Repellent

Most important from
47081 reviews

Form of Repellent
Non-greasy and non-sticky application makes it comfortable to use.
#3

Sawyer Products SP576 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent, Continuous Spray, 6-Ounce

Rating
9.5
Form of Repellent
Duration of Effectiveness

Most important from
47083 reviews

Form of Repellent
The spray is effective but needs to be applied correctly – a full misting spray is recommended to avoid excess liquid.
Duration of Effectiveness
This repellent worked wonders; no insect bites or diseases during travels to Colombia, Mexico, and Central America.

The Sawyer Products SP576 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent is a solid choice for families seeking a reliable mosquito repellent for kids. With 20% Picaridin as the active ingredient, it offers a strong alternative to DEET, known for being effective against mosquitoes and ticks as well as flies, gnats, and chiggers.

The repellent is fragrance-free and comes in an aerosol spray form, which makes it easy to apply and convenient for use on various outdoor adventures like camping, fishing, or even just backyard playtime. One of its standout features is its long-lasting protection, offering up to 12 hours of effectiveness against mosquitoes and ticks, and up to 8 hours against other pests, which can provide peace of mind during extended outdoor activities.

However, it's worth noting that aerosol sprays can sometimes be less environmentally friendly. Additionally, while the product is designed to be comfortable and non-greasy on the skin, some children with particularly sensitive skin might still experience irritation, so it’s recommended to perform a patch test before widespread use. The product is also safe for use on clothing and gear, which adds to its versatility. The Sawyer Products SP576 is a dependable mosquito repellent that balances effectiveness with ease of use, making it a good option for families, though parents of children with sensitive skin should exercise caution.

Rating
9.5
Form of Repellent
Duration of Effectiveness

Most important from
47083 reviews

Form of Repellent
The spray is effective but needs to be applied correctly – a full misting spray is recommended to avoid excess liquid.
Duration of Effectiveness
This repellent worked wonders; no insect bites or diseases during travels to Colombia, Mexico, and Central America.

Buying Guide for the Best Mosquito Repellent For Kids

Choosing the right mosquito repellent for kids is crucial to ensure their safety and comfort while protecting them from mosquito bites. When selecting a repellent, it's important to consider factors such as the active ingredients, the form of the repellent, its duration of effectiveness, and any potential skin sensitivities. Understanding these key specifications will help you make an informed decision that best suits your child's needs.
Active IngredientsThe active ingredient in a mosquito repellent is what keeps the mosquitoes away. Common active ingredients include DEET, Picaridin, and natural oils like citronella or eucalyptus. DEET is highly effective and long-lasting but should be used in lower concentrations for kids. Picaridin is also effective and generally considered safe for children. Natural oils are less potent but can be a good choice for short-term protection and for those who prefer natural products. Choose an active ingredient based on the level of protection needed and any potential skin sensitivities your child may have.
Form of RepellentMosquito repellents come in various forms such as sprays, lotions, wipes, and wearable devices like bracelets. Sprays and lotions are easy to apply and provide good coverage, but sprays can be inhaled if not applied carefully. Wipes are convenient for targeted application and less messy. Wearable devices offer a non-topical option but may not provide as comprehensive protection. Consider your child's age, activity level, and ease of application when choosing the form of repellent.
Duration of EffectivenessThe duration of effectiveness indicates how long the repellent will protect against mosquito bites. Products with DEET or Picaridin typically offer longer protection, ranging from several hours to all day, depending on the concentration. Natural repellents usually provide shorter protection, often needing reapplication every couple of hours. Choose a repellent with a duration that matches the length of time your child will be exposed to mosquitoes. For extended outdoor activities, a longer-lasting repellent may be more convenient.
Skin SensitivityChildren's skin can be more sensitive than adults', so it's important to choose a repellent that is gentle and less likely to cause irritation. Look for products labeled as hypoallergenic or specifically formulated for kids. Natural repellents may be less irritating but can be less effective. Always do a patch test on a small area of skin to check for any adverse reactions before applying the repellent more broadly. If your child has known allergies or skin conditions, consult with a healthcare provider before choosing a repellent.

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