Living in the city I’ve never been big on applying bug repellents on my kids; the chemicals their skin would absorb far outweighed the benefit of avoiding the occasional bug bites. However, this crazy spring weather and a friend’s mosquito bite related blood poisoning story has me re-evaluating my stance.
I’m still not a fan of applying most of the chemical laden products but after a visit at the Eco Beauty Market hosted by Environmental Defence this past weekend, it was brought to my attention that you can find natural bug repellants (without making them yourself). Here are 5 that are on my list to try.
Graydon Outdoor (Bug) Spray
This Outdoor (Bug) Spray Graydon is designed with Canadian weather in mind having been tested at the University of Guelph. It is unscented and non-irritating so the whole family can stay
Take A Hike Outdoor Lotion
100% natural and made with organic essential oils, Take a Hike Outdoor Lotion from All Things Jill glides on and absorbs quickly.
Quantum Buzz Away Towelettes
If you are looking for an alternative application method of your bug repellent,Quantum’s Buzz Away comes in a handy 12 pack of moist towelettes. This pure essential oil formula has been laboratory tested too.
Anoitment Shoo! Outdoor Body Spray
Shoo! Outdoor Body Spray from Anointment delivers a citronella-free outdoor oil in a spray form, perfect for the whole family, including pets. Plus the combination of Lemongrass, cedarwood, and eucalyptus leaves you with a pleasant aroma.
Sigrid Forest Girl Healing Salve
For those bites you just can’t escape, Forest Girl Healing Salve fromSigrid Natural Skin Careis designed for skin irritants like sunburn, rashes and yes, Inset bites.
If homemade is more your thing, you might be interested in the Bug Off pdf put together by the David Suzuki Foundation. It is full of great tips and even includes recipes for homemade bug repellent and candles.
How have you been avoiding the bites this year? Do the ingredients in a bug repellant play a factor in whether you use it on your kids or is the efficacy more important. Have you tried any natural or homemade bug repellants that you love? Please share them below.