5 Ways to Protect Your Children from Mosquitoes

**Collaborative post**

 I generally like to believe that every living creature has its place on this earth – nothing was created by mistake and everything and everyone has a purpose. That was until I had my first encounter with a mosquito – I struggled with these little guys and gals. Mosquitoes are an essential part of our world, providing food for many species of fish and other wildlife. As essential as they are, they can be an absolute pain in the neck…and arm…and leg… Here are 5 ways to keep your kids safe from these teeny tiny vampires.

Citronella Oil

Citronella doesn’t kill mosquitoes, it merely repels them. It’s not even really about that. All citronella does is mask the carbon dioxide and lactic acid scents that mosquitoes are looking for, which means they have a much harder time locating you to feast on. Mozzies are drawn to these scents so if they don’t smell them then they will move along to find food somewhere else.

Bug Sprays

Most bug sprays contain DEET which is the most popular ingredient because it is so effective at protecting people from mosquitoes, ticks, and other creepy crawlies. There are many alternatives to DEET bug sprays but they are perfectly safe for use – use a lower percentage mix on babies and toddlers – around 15% DEET is great and it works.

Peppermint Oil

Mosquitoes are not a fan of minty fragrances so rub the sap from peppermint plant leaves on your children’s arms and legs to keep these biting buggers at bay. Peppermint oil doesn’t just keep mosquitoes away; it has been known to be repulsive to many crawling critters, including spiders! The best part about this plant/oil is it can be used on bites to effectively relieve the itch if you’re travelling with the kids and don’t have anything else on hand.

Lavender Oil

Many studies have shown that lavender oil works effectively at keeping adult mozzies away. This is quite handy to have close by for camping and hiking trips, especially if you’re like me and you’re wondering when do mosquitoes go away. Take some lavender oil and rub it between your palms and then rub down your kids, especially their exposed skin. This will help keep your kids protected from nasty itchy bites while they play in the garden.

Spray Their Clothing

Bug spray can be used on your kid’s clothing too, and not just their skin. Be very careful not to get any spray in their eyes or their mouth. Remember to spray over the clothing and not under it, mosquitoes can bite through clothing that is not tightly woven enough. When you’re spraying, pay close attention to any areas where there is an opening in outer clothing, like cuffs, sleeve openings, and at the bottom of pant legs. Most bug sprays are safe to use on clothing. You can also spray bug spray in their bedrooms; around 2 hours before bedtime to make sure all of the mozzies in there have left, long before your kids enter dreamland.