safe bug sprays? Does one exist?

[BusyMommy]

Well, now that you've depressed me w/the thread on sunscreens, anyone have any recommendations for bug spray?

I know I used to have some that was wonderful, but have no idea where it came from.

We're thinking of getting OFF Skintastic for Kids.

Thanks!

[mdl]

There are lots of really great essential oils that repel bugs. I use a synergy (mixture) called "Skeeterbeater" from www.naturesgift.com. You can pretty easily make it into a spray or put it on with some carrier oil. Just be sure to skin test first before slathering it all over the kids, especially babies.

I also try to plant "bug repelling" plants near where the kids play. Sweet woodruff near the sand box keeps the flies at bay. Peppermint repels lots of things too.

[m&m]

I use "Swy Flotter" by Kiss my Face, a safe, natural spray sold at herbal stores here. It is made from coconut oil, silica, citronella, bay, cedarwood, lavender, vetivert, patchouli, juniper, tea tree, lemon, tansy, and goldenseal. It smells great. And I have found it works quite well. good against many insects and ticks.

Much more expensive than Off etc, but much safer.

[SquirelNutkin]

I just ahve to say that i and some others have had terrible experience with Bert Bee's bug repellent. But we are in Texas, so maybe we jsut have more nastier bugs.

I have read that avoiding bannanas and a daily supplement of b12 works well- but obviously this would have to be just for adults.

I have resorted to Avons Skin so Soft - although we dont use it very often.

good luck
b

[Lila]

I love Green Ban For People. It works very well. Smells a bit piney, but it is all natural and contains no harmful chemicals. You can read about it here:
http://www.kokogm.com/Products/gb-002.html
For the babes, I mix it with fragrance-free lotion so it is gentler.

[Jazmommie]

i got 2 to try-
Neem Naturals the outdoor spray by Lotus Brands Inc$6.49
Dschungel Juice by Nutribiotic $3.99

I read both labels-seems safe for kids.

[Gladmom]

What about Avon's Skin so Soft lotion? I bought some and am going to try it when we camp.

[Mommy StormRaven]

Lots of garlic is good for repelling mosquito's but we use a mixture of Tea Tree and Lavendar essential oils in an almond oil base and rub it everywhere it has worked better than anything else we have tried!

[mamachiquita]

Burt's Bees Lemongrass Bug Lotion works great!

[Kiddoson]

Originally posted by Mommy StormRaven
Lots of garlic is good for repelling mosquito's but we use a mixture of Tea Tree and Lavendar essential oils in an almond oil base and rub it everywhere it has worked better than anything else we have tried!

How much of this do you use? Where do you get almond oil?
Thanks!
Kim

[srain]

We've had no luck with any "natural" repellents, and resorted to sewing a bug hat for my toddler when in the blackfly-infested Adirondacks last weekend. We spent a week talking to him about it ahead of time, and despite being generally stubborn, he was willing to wear it. That's something to consider.

Also, consider putting sprays/lotions on clothing rather than directly on the skin. [Some require contact with the skin to work correctly, but many do not.]

[Mommy StormRaven]

I usually get the almond oil from an herb or health food shop (it's fairly cheap too. As for how much I use - usually 10-15 drops each of lavendar and tea tree oil. Usually does the job -DD hasn't gotten a bite yet!