It’s second nature for moms to be protective—making sure their kids eat nourishing snacks, keeping up with regular pediatric care, watching closely during playtime, and soothing their fears when the lights go out. Protecting them from harm means protecting them from pesky mosquito bites, too.

In this article, we’ll cover the risks of insect repellents with harmful chemicals, explain how natural alternatives may offer safer protection, and help you choose the right one for your family.

Rethinking What’s in Your Repellent: Why Some Parents Skip DEET

DEET is often the first thing that comes to mind for bug protection—but what does it really mean for your child’s health?

Back in the late 1980s, a study conducted on park workers found that about a quarter experienced side effects linked to DEET, such as rashes, skin irritation, numb or burning lips, nausea, headaches, and dizziness. Additionally, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) reports occasional cases of serious reactions from overusing DEET, including seizures, low blood pressure, agitation, and skin irritation.

While some sources consider DEET generally safe (but not recommended for infants under 6 months) when used exactly as directed, would you really want to take the risk with your kids? 

Monitoring the use of potentially harmful chemicals on children isn’t easy, and accidental overexposure can happen—especially since toddlers often put their hands in their mouths, rub their eyes, or chew on their fingers, increasing the risk of ingesting or spreading the product. That’s why many parents choose to avoid DEET altogether, especially when safer, natural alternatives offer effective protection without the worry.

What to Look for in a Natural Insect Repellent

Choosing an insect repellent for your family isn’t just about keeping bugs away—it’s about doing so with care and safety. Here’s what to look for:

  • Free from harmful chemicals
     Skip common irritants and questionable ingredients linked to health and environmental concerns:
    • DEET – widely used but associated with skin irritation and potential toxicity with overuse
    • Mineral oil – a petroleum byproduct with potential immune and respiratory effects, and known environmental impact
    • Synthetic fragrances – may trigger allergies and often conceal harsh, undisclosed chemicals
    • Parabens and phthalates – ingredients that have been identified as potential endocrine disruptors in some studies, and are commonly found in conventional cosmetics
    • Artificial dyes – offer no benefit and may cause allergic reactions
  • Powered by proven natural ingredients
    Opt for plant-based ingredients with insect-repelling benefits:
  • Gentle and non-irritating
    Look for formulations labeled safe for children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding moms—made with sensitive skin in mind and free from unnecessary additives.

Choose A Safe and Effective Insect Repellent for Your Family

At the end of the day, protecting your family shouldn’t mean taking risks with harsh ingredients. Additives like DEET, mineral oil, and synthetic fragrances might keep bugs away, but they can also irritate young or sensitive skin—and for many parents, that trade-off just isn’t worth it.

Natural insect repellents offer a gentler, safer alternative. Made with plant-based ingredients and thoughtful formulations, they deliver effective protection without the worry.

Choosing safer options doesn’t mean settling for less—it means making informed choices that put your family’s well-being first.