How to Protect Your Family From Mosquitoes

Help your family stay a step ahead of mosquitoes

From the clothes they wear to the types of repellents you apply and more, here are some simple tips to help you protect kids from mosquitoes.

Clothing:

1. Can clothing help protect against mosquitoes?

Yes, but clothes only provide a limited line of defense against mosquito bites.

2. What kind of clothing works the best?

Tightly woven, long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and anything that covers up the body can protect your child from mosquito bites. However, it’s best to go with loose-fitting clothes as mosquitoes can sometimes bite through tight-fitting material.

3. Do colors matter?

Mosquitoes are more attracted towards dark colors. So, opt for something light colored when you and your kids play outside.

Mosquito repellents:

1. How can repellents help?

During the summer, kids are often playing outside, which makes long, tightly woven clothing uncomfortable. This is where repellents come into play. While there are a variety of children’s options for repelling mosquitoes, they certainly are not equal. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), insect repellents that contain ingredients such as DEET are the most effective at protecting from mosquitoes.

Check out the OFF!^® Product Finder to find the right repellent for you

2. Can I use repellents that contain DEET on family members of any age?

When applied correctly, DEET is appropriate for use on children. According to the CDC and the Environmental Protection Agency, you can begin using insect repellents containing DEET on children 2 months old or older.

3. How do I properly apply repellent to my child?

Always read and follow the instructions on the label. OFF!^® recommends the “hand first” method. Spray the palm of your hand, then put the product on your children.

To learn more about how to correctly apply insect repellent, visit our blog

Outdoors:

1. Are mosquitoes more active during certain times of day?

Most mosquitoes are more active during dusk and dawn but they can still be a nuisance during other times of the day. Protect your children so they can get the most out of playtime.

2. How can I help rid my backyard of mosquitoes?

There are easy things you can do to make your backyard more play friendly. Empty out any standing water around the home. Mosquitoes tend to breed in puddles, gutters and any place that gathers water.

Get more information on the little areas you need to watch to help keep mosquitoes away.

With these simple tips, keeping children protected from mosquitoes doesn’t have to be a chore.