A Mama’s Guide on Bug Spray for Littles: Natural Protection for New England Summers

Disclaimer:
I’m a mama, not a doctor or licensed medical professional. The bug spray recipes and recommendations shared in this blog post are based on personal research, experience, and trusted holistic sources. Every child is different, and essential oils can affect individuals in unique ways. Please consult your pediatrician or a qualified healthcare provider before using any essential oil products on infants or toddlers, especially under the age of two. Always patch test a small area first, and avoid applying oils near the face, eyes, or hands. These recipes are for external use only.

Summer in New England is a season we look forward to all year — the wildflowers bloom, the days stretch long, and there’s something deeply grounding about letting our little ones run barefoot through the grass. But alongside the barefoot joy comes the not-so-welcome buzz of mosquitoes and the silent creep of ticks. And as mamas — especially those of us raising our littles with a holistic and faith-rooted perspective — we’re often faced with a hard choice: do we protect them from bites with conventional sprays or avoid exposing their delicate skin to questionable chemicals?

At The Untamed Mama, we’re all about living connected to nature, to our values, and to the rhythms of creation. That means choosing protection that is both effective and clean. But the bug spray aisle can be overwhelming. What's safe? What's greenwashed? What really works for toddlers?

This blog post was created to cut through the noise, blending research, holistic alternatives, practical mama-tested recipes, and trustworthy resources (not just trendy headlines). Whether you're packing the diaper bag for a hike in the White Mountains, an evening by the lake, or just backyard playtime, this post will walk you through everything you need to know: from the science of bug bites in New England to safe DIY spray recipes and faith-aligned stewardship of our children’s health.

Let’s explore the best ways to keep our littles bite-free, without compromising our values or their well-being.

The Upside of Bug Spray

A Proven Shield
Some days, we just need reliable protection — especially when ticks are thick in the grass and mosquitoes seem to swarm the moment we step outside. EPA-registered repellents with ingredients like DEET, picaridin, or IR3535 have been shown to work well against both mosquitoes and ticks. When used correctly, they can offer real peace of mind, especially for those longer days out in the woods or evenings by the lake.

Flexible for Everyday Adventures
Whether it’s a backyard picnic, a morning at the playground, or a trail walk through the pines, bug sprays offer a convenient and portable way to help keep the bites at bay. You can toss a bottle in the diaper bag and know you’ve got a layer of defense no matter where your day takes you.

Long-Lasting Protection
Some sprays are designed to last for hours — a huge win for busy mamas who don’t want to reapply every 20 minutes. That extended coverage is especially helpful when you're juggling snacks, sunscreen, and toddler-wrangling on a sunny hike.

The Trade-Offs to Keep in Mind

Chemical Concerns
As much as we want to trust the labels, many conventional bug sprays raise red flags, especially when it comes to young, sensitive skin. Some children may experience rashes or irritation, and many of us mamas simply feel uncomfortable spraying synthetic chemicals on our babies’ skin, no matter how “safe” they’re said to be.

Tricky Application
Getting even coverage on a wiggly toddler? Not always easy. Plus, many sprays have a strong scent (read: chemical fog), and some can leave a sticky residue or unpleasant feel on the skin. It’s not exactly the cozy, outdoor freedom we imagine when we think “summer with littles.”

Age Limits Matter
Not every spray is made for every age. Many conventional options aren’t recommended for infants under two months, and even with older children, there are guidelines around how much to use and how often. It can be hard to know what’s truly safe, especially when product labels don’t always make that clear.

Age-Appropriate Bug Spray Recommendations

Before we dive into the next section, let’s take a moment to remember why we’re doing all this. This isn’t just about avoiding itchy bites (though that’s a gift too!). It’s about protecting our littles in a way that honors their bodies and the natural world we’re raising them to love. That’s the heart behind these DIY recipes — simple, nourishing ingredients you can feel good about spraying on tiny arms and legs. These blends are mama-made, toddler-tested, and built on the belief that less really can be more — less chemical load, more nature. Here are three first natural bug spray recipes to tuck into your toolkit:

Everyday Defender DIY Bug Spray for Toddlers

A quick and simple recipe for everyday use — gentle, effective, and mama-approved.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz witch hazel (alcohol-free preferred)

• 2 oz distilled water

• 10 drops lavender essential oil

• 10 drops citronella essential oil (plant-based)

• 5 drops tea tree essential oil

Instructions:
Combine witch hazel and distilled water in a 4 oz glass spray bottle. Add the essential oils, then shake well to blend. Shake before each use and store in a cool, dark place.

Why it works: This toddler-friendly blend offers daily protection without overpowering their sensitive skin. Lavender soothes, citronella repels, and tea tree adds a gentle antimicrobial boost — a beautiful trio for backyard play or afternoon walks.

Note: Suitable for children aged 3 and up. For younger toddlers, reduce essential oil amounts by half and spot test first. Always avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and hands.

Calm + Protect Lavender-Citrus Spray

A gentle, calming spray perfect for infants over 3 months and toddlers.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz witch hazel (alcohol-free if possible)

• 2 oz distilled water

• 10 drops lavender essential oil

• 5 drops citronella essential oil (plant-based, not synthetic)

• 5 drops lemon eucalyptus essential oil

• 1 tsp vegetable glycerin (optional, for staying power)

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a glass spray bottle. Shake gently before each use. Mist onto clothes or skin, avoiding hands and face on littles. Store in a cool place out of sunlight.

Why it works: Lavender is soothing and calming for the skin and mind. Citronella and lemon eucalyptus provide natural mosquito-fighting power.

Woodland Defense Herbal Vinegar Repellent

An old-school, earthy recipe with serious bite-fighting power.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar (organic, with the mother)

• 1/2 cup distilled water

• 1 tbsp dried rosemary

• 1 tbsp dried peppermint

• 1 tbsp dried lavender

• 10 drops tea tree essential oil (optional for added tick defense)

Instructions:
Add herbs to a mason jar and cover with vinegar. Let it infuse for 1–2 weeks in a cool, dark place, shaking daily. Strain the herbs, dilute the vinegar with equal parts water, and pour into a spray bottle. Add essential oils if using. Use on clothing, shoes, stroller fabric, or even on dog fur.

Why it works: This folk-style repellent is packed with bug-repelling herbs. Apple cider vinegar helps balance skin pH and naturally deters pests — and while the scent is strong at first, it fades quickly.

Next up, we’ll explore the best non-toxic bug sprays on the market for those days when you don’t have time to DIY — because let’s be honest, some weeks we’re in our homemade era, and some weeks we’re just trying to make it out the door with our snacks and sanity intact. Let’s take a look at mama-trusted brands that balance safety, efficacy, and natural ingredients.

• Badger Anti-Bug Shake & Spray: Made with organic ingredients like citronella and lemongrass.

• California Baby Natural Bug Blend: Utilizes essential oils such as citronella and cedar.

• Babyganics Natural Insect Repellent: Features a blend of plant-based ingredients.

• All Terrain Herbal Armor: Contains a mix of natural oils like citronella and peppermint.

You can also check out products like BuzzPatch that offer DEET-free, plant-based repellent stickers that can be applied to clothing, providing up to 12 hours of protection.

Sometimes the simplest solutions are the most effective. While we often focus on sprays and lotions to keep bugs at bay, physical barriers like bug nets offer a gentle, chemical-free way to protect our babies from mosquitoes and other pests.

Stroller bug nets are a must-have for outdoor-loving families. These lightweight, breathable covers fit snugly over your stroller, creating a protective shield without compromising airflow or visibility. They're especially handy during evening walks or trips to the park when mosquitoes are most active.

Top Picks:

• Bumbleride Single Stroller Bug Net: OEKO-TEX certified and made from recycled nylon, this net is designed to fit snugly over Bumbleride strollers, ensuring your little one stays protected without overheating.

• The Original Drawstring Baby Mosquito Net: A versatile option with an adjustable drawstring, making it compatible with various stroller models and car seats. I use this most often - it goes over our stroller, car seat, and pack-n-play, definitely my most recommended mosquito net!

• Wonderfold Mosquito Net (W Series): Tailored for Wonderfold wagons, this net offers comprehensive coverage, ensuring your child remains bug-free during adventures.

• Nuby Stroller & Carrier Netting: With elastic edges that stretch to fit most strollers and carriers, this breathable mesh keeps bugs out and fresh air flowing.

• Mockingbird Stroller Net: Built specifically for Mockingbird strollers, it’s easy to attach and withstands toddler curiosity.

• Nuna Insect Net: Lightweight and sheer, this net wraps securely with elastic binding—great for quick attachment on the go.

For mamas who prefer babywearing, bug protection can be a bit trickier. Many mamas in babywearing communities recommend simple tuck-in muslin swaddle blankets or drape a thin cotton scarf over the carrier—and add a few clothespins—to mimic a hand-made bug net. You can also wear one of the larger mosquito nets over your head and over baby (they are completely breathable) and tie around your waist to help limit bugs.

If you often wear your little one in a sling or soft carrier, pop one of the many mosquito net options into your diaper bag—you can drape it over baby and secure it with a scarf or clip when you stop for a snack, sit under a tree, or wander near water. For a more custom setup, some thoughtful mamas have crafted their own using lightweight bug netting with bias-tape edges—simple, handmade, and totally portable.

A well-fitted net is pure gold for those buggy sunset walks. Whether store-bought or handmade, it’s a gentle, chemical-free layer of protection, letting you and your littles explore and breathe easy all summer long.

While a breathable bug net is often the first go-to for outdoor outings, it’s not the only line of defense, and sometimes, it's not the most convenient. Whether your little one keeps pulling it off or you’re simply looking for additional layers of protection, there are thoughtful, non-toxic alternatives that blend seamlessly into your daily rhythm.

Protective Clothing with Purpose

Long sleeves and pants might seem like a lot for summertime, but lightweight, breathable fabrics can make all the difference. Look for organic cotton, linen, or bamboo pieces with a loose fit — they allow airflow while keeping tiny arms and legs covered. Neutral tones and earth shades are not only beautiful but less likely to attract mosquitoes (who love bright colors!). For extra peace of mind, consider clothing with built-in insect-repelling properties made from natural fibers — but always double-check that the treatments used are safe for sensitive baby skin.

Repellent Clips for On-the-Go Defense

For a hands-free option that doesn’t touch baby’s skin, repellent clips can be a simple solution. Brands like Para’Kito offer wearable wristbands infused with essential oil blends like citronella and rosemary. They’re especially helpful on hikes or at the park when you’re moving around and don’t want to reapply spray constantly. Just remember: while convenient, they work best in tandem with other repellents, not as a standalone.

Stroller-Safe Essential Oil Sprays

A mama favorite for a reason — a light spritz of essential oil spray on the stroller fabric, carrier straps, or even mama’s own clothes can help keep bugs at bay without ever touching baby’s skin. Lavender, cedarwood, and citronella are gentle but effective. Just make sure the spray is properly diluted (especially if you’re DIY-ing it), and do a scent test first to ensure it’s not overpowering for your little one. You can also spray it onto muslin cloths or stroller covers that sit between baby and the outside world.

At first glance, protective clothing, repellent clips, and essential oil sprays might seem like small choices, but they’re part of a much bigger picture. As mamas, we’re not just fending off bug bites; we’re safeguarding our children’s comfort, health, and peace while helping them grow up close to creation. And in places like New England, where mosquito and tick populations are no small matter, these mindful choices matter even more. From itchy bumps to more serious concerns like tick-borne illness, understanding what we’re up against helps us feel more empowered, not overwhelmed.

Let’s take a closer look at two of the biggest bug-related worries for New England families: mosquitoes and ticks. We’ll cover what they carry, where they thrive, and how to check for bites with confidence — plus, what symptoms to watch for when something doesn’t look quite right. Because the more we know, the better we can protect our little ones with wisdom, intention, and grace.

Mosquitoes: Tiny, Yet Troublesome

In Massachusetts, mosquito activity typically peaks from late spring through early fall. These pests are not only a nuisance but can also transmit diseases such as West Nile Virus and Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE). While the overall risk remains low, certain areas may experience higher activity, especially after heavy rainfall or in regions with standing water. It's essential to stay informed through resources like the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, which provides updates on mosquito-borne disease activity.

Ticks: Small Creatures, Significant Concerns

Ticks, particularly the black-legged tick (commonly known as the deer tick), are prevalent in New England. They're most active from early spring through late fall, with a significant presence in wooded and grassy areas. These ticks can transmit Lyme disease, which is most frequently diagnosed in children and older adults during the summer months. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health offers monthly tick-borne disease reports to help residents stay informed.

I’ll never forget the day I was bitten by a tick. I was just a second grader on a field trip to the zoo — nothing out of the ordinary, just a day full of wide-eyed wonder and packed lunches. But a few days later, my knee swelled to the size of a basketball. The pain was overwhelming, and soon I became incredibly sensitive to bright lights and loud noises. That was my first experience with Lyme disease. It wasn’t just one symptom — it was layers of discomfort that lingered. Even now, as an adult, I still notice those lasting effects: I’m sensitive to light, and there are days when my joints feel achy out of nowhere.

Lyme disease, transmitted by black-legged ticks, can cause symptoms like fever, headache, fatigue, and a characteristic skin rash. Lyme disease isn’t a one-size-fits-all illness. There are multiple strains — some that affect your joints and others that target your muscles. I know people who have suffered from both, and it can be deeply challenging, even frightening. It’s not just a rash or a bite — it can impact your quality of life for years if it’s not caught early.

If you or your little one are ever bitten by a tick and you notice a red ring or bullseye-shaped rash around the bite site, it’s crucial to call your doctor right away. That classic ring is a strong indicator that the tick may have been carrying Lyme. Early treatment with the right medication can make all the difference in how your body responds and recovers.

Checking for Bites: A Gentle, Daily Habit

After a day of exploring the backyard, hiking your favorite New England trail, or even just playing in tall grass, it’s wise to get into the rhythm of daily skin checks, especially during bug season. Think of it as a little post-adventure ritual, a way to protect those tiny toes and curious limbs after they’ve spent the day soaking up the wild and free.

Where to Look

Ticks and other biting bugs are sneaky. They love warm, hidden places — so when you're doing your once-over, be sure to check:

• Behind the ears

• Along the hairline and scalp

• Under the arms and behind the knees

• Around the waistline and diaper area

• Between fingers and toes

A flashlight and a fine-toothed comb can help when you’re checking through your child’s hair, especially after wooded or grassy play. If you find a tick, remove it right away using fine-tipped tweezers and save it (in a small plastic baggie or container) in case your pediatrician recommends testing.

When to Call the Doctor

Most bug bites are harmless and heal quickly with a little TLC — a cool compress, soothing balm, and lots of snuggles. But it’s important to stay alert for signs that something more serious may be going on.

Call your doctor if your child shows any of the following:

• Allergic Reactions: Sudden hives, significant swelling (especially around the eyes or mouth), or any signs of difficulty breathing require immediate medical attention.

• Signs of Infection: If a bite becomes increasingly red, warm to the touch, or starts oozing pus, it could be infected.

• Possible Tick-Borne Illness: Symptoms like fever, unusual fatigue, body aches, or a spreading rash, particularly one that looks like a bullseye, may indicate Lyme disease or another tick-related illness.

Trust your mama instincts. You know your child best, and if something feels off, it’s always worth reaching out to a trusted healthcare provider.

Final Thoughts from One Mama to Another

Protecting our little ones from insect bites isn’t just about sprays and nets — it’s about creating a safe, nurturing space for them to explore the world freely, without fear or harsh chemicals. It’s about knowing when to lean on nature’s gifts, when to reach for science-backed solutions, and always tuning into that God-given mama instinct that tells us what’s right for our child.

Whether you're blending up a homemade bug spray, slipping a repellent clip onto the stroller, or doing nightly tick checks with a flashlight and a cuddle, you're already doing the beautiful, hard work of intentional, heart-led motherhood. And here in New England — with our woods, waters, and wildflowers — that kind of care matters even more.

So as you head into the warmer months, let this post be your gentle reminder: stay informed, stay grounded, and don’t be afraid to ask questions or pivot when needed. Your child’s safety doesn’t have to come at the cost of their well-being — or yours. You’ve got this, Mama.

Note: Always speak with your pediatrician before introducing new products to your child’s routine, especially when it comes to essential oils or bug repellent ingredients. Every child is different, and your family’s health choices deserve personal attention.