Mosquito and midge repellents for children under 1 year of age

Insect protection for children

Repellents are products that repel insects. Nowadays many different types are produced, not all of them can be used for children. They are completely contraindicated for infants under 2 months. At this age, it is necessary to protect the baby with the help of barrier means - those that do not allow insects to enter the body. These are closed light clothing, mosquito nets for a stroller or window.

It is advisable to protect the child in this way for as long as possible. After all, all repellents are based on chemicals. Therefore, it is recommended to use them only as a last resort. The chosen product should:

• do not have a strong odor;
• do not cause allergies;
• designed for babies;
• contain substances that soften the skin and relieve irritation;
• protect for at least 3 hours.

Mosquito protection for children from 2 years old

More recently, bracelets have appeared on sale to protect children from mosquitoes from 2 years old. We also bought one for our child and went to the dacha, where mosquitoes literally flew in flocks (the planting season has not yet been cancelled). Nothing, it helps.

In addition, my grandmother actively uses mosquito coils at her dacha. You put on 1 coil, light it and plant yourself a carrot without worrying about some bloodsucker attacking from the rear. The spirals act within a radius of 2 meters, as if creating an invisible protective cap around themselves.

Release form

There are different repellents available for babies. This is personal protective equipment, for example, lotion, cream or bracelet. For babies, it is better to use repellents that are applied to the stroller, crib or clothing. And indoors, incense sticks or fumigators are more suitable. If placed away from the child, they will not have a harmful effect, but will drive insects out of the room.

Important! The product, which is applied to the skin, can be used no more than 2-3 times a day.

Cream

Such products care for the baby’s delicate skin, they are easy to apply and control the dosage. You can only use those that are intended for children. Use according to instructions.

Lotion

It is well absorbed, cares for the skin, eliminates itching and irritation. Usually has a natural composition and does not cause allergies.

Spray

The repellent in aerosol form is convenient to spray on clothes, mosquito nets, and strollers. When used on babies, do not spray directly on them; the spray may enter the respiratory tract. You need to spray the product first on your hand, then carefully apply it to your body. It is not recommended to spray such products indoors.

Liquid

Used in electric fumigators. Liquids with herbal composition are produced for children. “Nekusayka” and “Picnic” are effective. They contain chamomile extract, are odorless and safe from birth. It is advisable to turn it on in the absence of the baby.

Aroma sticks

Indoors you can use sticks with the scent of cloves, lemon, geranium, eucalyptus, and lavender. They repel insects. But it is recommended to light them only in the absence of children, 1-2 hours before bedtime.

Bracelets

For children, bracelets soaked in essential oils are used. They repel insects and last 1-2 weeks. For small children who put everything in their mouth, it is better to put them on their feet. Due to the fact that they have a pungent odor, they can cause allergies.

What types of mosquito repellents are there?

Products used to protect against annoying insects are called repellents.
This is a type of household chemical or cosmetic product, depending on who you prefer. However, the composition of the repellent is a completely synthetic substance, sometimes including a fraction of natural essential oils. The action of the repellent is to repel the insect, and not to destroy it. Household chemicals with the function of killing insects belong to the category of insecticides; this is still not the same thing as repellents. The use of insecticides in the presence of children is strictly prohibited. Repelling mosquitoes, horse flies, ticks, midges and other summer living creatures from the body and environment of a person (for example, a yard or a forest clearing) can occur in several ways - due to odors unbearable for insects and ultrasonic vibrations, similar to the alarm signal of a male individual. The perception of both smell and sound by insects occurs absolutely naturally, and as a result, they do not get closer to the source. Ultrasound devices are most often represented by portable key fobs or stationary devices - this is less popular. During the season when annoying insects are active, the shelves of supermarkets and pharmacies are overflowing with sprays, creams, emulsions that are applied to the body and the smell of which is unacceptable to insects. There you can also find anti-mosquito coils and fumigants - they also act on the principle of releasing aromas, but are not applied to the body, but release an odor when burned or heated.

Based on the method of action, repellents are divided into olfactory and contact. The former are effective against insects already at a distance, since they act on the nerve endings of the olfactory organs of arthropods. The latter allow direct contact of the insect with the treated surface.

When choosing mosquito repellents for children, it is extremely important to pay attention to the composition of the drug. After all, it is most often applied to the baby’s skin, otherwise it can be inhaled. The following fundamental components are currently recognized as the most effective against mosquitoes:

• diethyltoluamide,
• benzoylpiperidine,
• oxamate,
• rebemid,
• carboxide,
• dimethyl phthalate.

Most likely, you will see them among the first components in the composition of the protective product. In addition to them, the composition may include:

• benzimine or hexamide,
• dibutyl phthalate,
• dimethyl phthalate,
• diethyltoluamide or DEET,
• carboxide,
• kuzol-acetyl 1,2,3,4-tetrahydroquinoline,
• repellin alfa is a proven combination of components consisting of 48% dimethyl phthalate, 50% benzylpiperidine and 2% ethylcellulose.

All these difficult-to-pronounce chemical terms do not at all create a desire to purchase the drug, because they may not be recommended for use, especially by children. Such fears are slightly exaggerated. All of the names listed above, although they are not capable of improving health (they are not given such a function), will not cause much harm to the body, albeit under small conditions. If their user does not have an allergic reaction or individual intolerance to a specific component.

Before using mosquito repellent for children , be sure to do an allergy test. Apply a small amount of the drug to the inside of your wrist and wait 10 minutes. If after the allotted time no redness or similar skin reactions appear, then the product will not cause allergies or intolerance.

Unlike those listed above, there are components of repellents that are simply prohibited for use. These include toxic ones that accumulate in the body:

• organochlorine compounds - tend to accumulate,
• carbamates and organophosphorus compounds are toxic.

Pyrethrins and similar pyrethroids deserve special attention. These are the most harmless repellents recommended for use. Pyrethrins are natural; they are obtained, for example, from dried Caucasian chamomile flowers. They are also found in moderate quantities in natural essential oils. Pyrethroids are synthetic analogues of pyrethrins, but these are relatively new agents that are still difficult to obtain.

The most effective repellents

There are many repellents available on the market. But children are only allowed to use those that are marked “children’s” or have a specified age. These are repellents from Picnic, Mosquitall, Gardex, “Moe Solnyshko”.

Chemical based

Chemical-based products are considered the most effective. But they can be toxic, so they are not recommended for children under one year old.

DEET is most often used in such products. This is an effective but toxic substance. It repels not only mosquitoes, but also flies, midges, horseflies, mosquitoes, and ticks. Not recommended for use in children under 3 years of age. The concentration of this substance is important. Typically, no more than 30% is used in children's products. When combined with dimethyl phthalate, the toxicity of DEET is reduced. A more modern and safer substance is IR3535. But it can also be used only for babies over a year old and no more than 2 times a day.

Naturally based

Children's insect repellents are often plant-based. Mosquitoes and other pests cannot stand the smells of cloves, geraniums, lavender, citronella, and eucalyptus. They are mainly used as part of clips or bracelets, but there are sprays and creams. They are not as effective as chemical agents and do not provide good protection against ticks. Some babies cause allergies.

Ineffective

Research by scientists has determined that some popular products are not effective against mosquitoes. These are ultrasonic repellers, bracelets with chemicals and some folk remedies.

Mosquito repellent bracelets and clothespins

mosquito bracelets for children
Anti-mosquito bracelets for children were invented recently and have already gained wide popularity among mothers who prefer safe mosquito protection for their babies. It is recommended to put such a device on the child’s arm or leg, or attach it to a stroller or crib; the range of action on insects is 40-60 cm.

The most popular scare bracelets:

• BugSTOP, Farewell Squeak - are a microfiber tape impregnated with citronella oil, there are no toxic substances. Protection lasts 170 hours. However, it is recommended to use it only from 3 years of age. Price 140-290 rub.
• Gardex Baby is a mosquito repellent bracelet with a removable cartridge; geranium, lavender, citronella and mint oils are used for impregnation; it is used in children from 2 years of age. Price for a set with 3 plates – 300 rub.
• Clothespin or clip Gardex Baby with a removable plate - fastens to the baby’s clothes or stroller, helps protect the child from the attack of blood-sucking insects in the open air, repelling with the smell of essential oils. Price 300 rub. For children from 2 years old.
• Green luck (China) with citronella oil - will help protect your baby from insects for up to 480 hours, sold in several colors, price 200 rubles.

Review

I bought 2 bracelets for my daughter specifically for a trip to the forest, attached one to the leg, the other to the side of the stroller. However, I was disappointed, because in nature they did little to help against mosquitoes; I also had to save myself from the bloodsuckers manually, swatting them with newspaper.

Alina, Moscow

How to use it correctly

Almost all repellents are chemicals. They should be used only as a last resort, when it is not possible to protect the child from bites in other ways. When using such products, you need to follow several rules that will help avoid poisoning or an allergic reaction:

• use the product strictly according to the instructions, without exceeding the dosage;
• if possible, apply repellents to clothing, stroller canopy, and blanket;
• use such products only while walking, use barrier methods or fumigators at home;
• You cannot apply them to your palms and fingers, as the baby may lick them;
• for this reason, it is recommended to put bracelets on the child’s legs;
• It is not advisable to apply products to the face, especially around the eyes, mouth and ears, when the child sweats, chemicals may flow down with sweat;
• Do not apply such products to areas of the skin where there are scratches, wounds or inflammation;
• If any allergic reactions occur, immediately wash off the product and do not use it again, ventilate the room;
• After returning from a walk, be sure to wash off the repellent from your skin and wash the treated clothing.

Important! Repellents for children can only be purchased in special stores or pharmacies. It must be indicated that the product is for children.

Preventing mosquito attacks on children

For mothers taking walks with their babies in the fresh air, it is recommended to follow the rules that will help not attract blood-sucking insects to themselves and their child:

• mosquitoes fly towards the scent of perfume, dark clothes or bright lipstick, so using them is not recommended;
• there is no need to apply a large amount of anti-mosquito agent to the skin; it would be optimal to use clothes or a stroller visor for this, which is safer for the child;
• You cannot use protective medications too often; it is better to apply them immediately before going outside;
• You must follow the instructions for storing the drug and monitor its expiration date.

Protective agents against “bloodsuckers” for young children, especially infants, must be highly effective and as safe as possible. For children under 6 months, it is better not to use cosmetic products at all, but only folk remedies for mosquitoes for newborns, made at home.

Folk remedies

There are also effective folk remedies that protect your baby from insect bites. The most commonly used essential oils are lavender, clove, eucalyptus, chamomile, geranium, and basil. They cannot be applied to the skin in its pure form; it is better to use it in an aroma lamp or drip it onto a cotton swab and place it next to the baby. If there is no allergy, you can add it to baby cream.

There are several more folk recipes:

• heat the valerian tincture over a candle so that it evaporates;
• spread mint or elderberry herbs around the room;
• mix vanillin powder with vegetable oil or baby cream;
• cut a lemon, stick a few clove buds into the pulp.

Repellents for children will help avoid bites from blood-sucking insects. They will provide your child with sound sleep and comfortable rest. And parents will be calm that the baby will not develop skin irritation. You just need to choose the right product.

Tips and tricks

Experienced parents and pediatricians give the following advice on protecting babies from mosquitoes:

1. You should not use perfumes, deodorants, or air fresheners in your baby’s room, as mosquitoes are attracted to the smells.
2. All drugs are used for children in accordance with the recommended time; repellents should not be used constantly.
3. It is better to apply the products not to the baby’s skin, but to clothing and nearby objects.
4. Do not use drugs longer than the permitted period of use.
5. It is better to use simple products on the skin (vanillin, lavender, cloves), mixing them with baby cream or vegetable oil.
6. After using anti-mosquito products on the skin, you should wash your child thoroughly.

At the dacha around the house it is useful to plant tomatoes, elderberries, keep geraniums in the room, sachets with herbs of wormwood, basil, eucalyptus, anise, pyrethrum. The short Russian summer is overshadowed by the presence of insects that spoil the lives of children and deprive parents of peace. It is important to remember that it is better to use natural means of protection in rooms where a child under one year old is constantly present. Carefully seal cracks in windows and doors, and cover all openings with mosquito nets. Cover the stroller with muslin when walking.

Use any mosquito repellent only for a short time, recommended by the manufacturer and pediatricians, so as not to harm the babies.

Rating

Best up to a year

Levrana spray against mosquitoes and insects Citronella Anti-Bug Spray

Advantages

• Effective
• Nice smell
• Natural

Flaws

• Individual effect, may not work

Best of the Year

Mosquito repellent Picnic Baby spray, 120 ml

Advantages

• Effective
• Natural composition
• Good size

Flaws

• Consumes quickly

DETA AQUA spray for little ones 2 in 1

Advantages

• Contains soothing aloe vera
• Price
• Works
• Good smell
• Convenient to take with you

Flaws

• Small volume

Aerosol Gardex Baby 2 in 1 against mosquitoes and midges for children from 1 year

Advantages

• Qualitative
• Price
• Works

Flaws

• The smell is not very pleasant

Best from 2 years

Spray My sun from mosquitoes

Advantages

• Qualitative
• Price
• Works

Flaws

• Small volume

Best for allergy sufferers

Picnic Hypoallergenic mosquito repellent spray

Advantages

• Possible from 1 year
• Effective
• Unobtrusive smell

Flaws

• No

Best Safe

Mommy Care oil for repelling mosquitoes

Advantages

• Effective
• Nice smell
• Safe composition

Flaws

• Need to update frequently
• High consumption

Best by reviews

Cream OFF! Kids mosquito repellent

Advantages

• Helps
• Nice smell
• Price

Flaws

• High consumption
• Short duration

Spray Mosquitall Universal protection

Advantages

• Action time 3 hours
• Works
• Price

Flaws

• Suitable for children from 5 years old

Mosquito protection for children 1-2 years old

When a child turns 1 year old, the arsenal of mosquito protection products expands significantly. Manufacturers offer creams, milks, sprays, lotions designed for sensitive children's skin, with a stronger effect. We also used them, and did not notice any allergic reactions or dissatisfaction on the part of the little one. It’s better, of course, to try the product on your skin first, well, you never know.

Mechanism of action

Mosquito repellent for children over 1 year old is made taking into account the individual characteristics of the body and delicate skin. Apply to the body or clothing.

DEET is used as an insecticidal substance in minimal concentration. The baby product kills mosquitoes and midges, but does not harm the baby. The exception is the individual characteristics of the components, or excess concentration. Insects land on the skin, come into contact with the poison, and die within a few seconds. The insecticide can protect a child for 2-4 hours, depending on the form of release.

The second group of safe products for children over 1 year of age is based on essential oils against mosquitoes: lavender, citronella, mint, cloves and some other plants. They repel midges and mosquitoes with a persistent odor that spreads over a distance of 50-100 cm. On the street, the action lasts for a maximum of 2 hours, after which the protective layer needs to be renewed. Repellents are produced in different forms; anti-mosquito bracelets worn on arms and legs last the longest.

Indoors, to protect children from mosquitoes, electric fumigators are used, which operate on the basis of plates and liquid. The composition includes the same insecticide - DEET or the natural safe substance pyrethrum, which is extracted from certain types of chamomile. When heated, the active substances enter the air and repel or kill mosquitoes. The maximum effect is 8 hours in a row. It does not cause side effects in children, in most cases it is odorless.

Mosquito repellents for children over one year old

Important!

A child's body is an extremely vulnerable system. An allergy can arise from any substance completely unexpectedly. Before actively using any selected mosquito repellent, it is necessary to initially conduct a sensitivity test. Apply a minimal amount to the elbow area. Observe the reaction for 30 minutes.