Do Natural Mosquito Repellents Actually Work? A Monsoon Must-Know for Parents
The monsoons are here and with them comes lush greenery, cooler air, muddy puddles, and unfortunately, mosquitoes.
For babies and toddlers, mosquito bites aren’t just itchy inconveniences—they can lead to rashes, infections, and in some regions, even diseases like dengue or chikungunya. Naturally, the instinct is to protect but the question is: how?
With so many repellents in the market, many parents are turning to “natural” or “plant-based” options. But do they really work? And more importantly, are they safe enough for your baby’s delicate skin?
Why Baby-Safe Protection Matters in the Monsoon
Mosquitoes thrive in warm, humid conditions making the rainy season their peak time. Babies, with their soft skin and slower immune responses, are more vulnerable to bites.
But most chemical repellents contain DEET or picaridin ingredients that, while effective, aren’t always recommended for infants under 2 months. Even after that, prolonged or repeated exposure can irritate skin or cause reactions.
That’s why natural mosquito repellents have become a go-to for many cautious parents but they often come with doubts: Do they really do the job?
The Science Behind Natural Bug Repellents
Natural repellents don’t rely on synthetic chemicals. Instead, they use plant-derived oils that mosquitoes instinctively avoid. Common ingredients include:
- Citronella
- Lemongrass
- Lavender
Studies show that some of these, especially citronella and lemongrass, offer mosquito protection comparable to low concentrations of chemical repellents. However, they may need more frequent reapplication.
What Makes a Natural Repellent Actually Work?
Not all natural repellents are created equal. To be both safe and effective, here’s what to look for:
1. Ingredient transparency
Choose formulations that clearly mention the type and percentage of plant oils used.
2. Pediatrician-recommended
Opt for products specifically tested for babies and endorsed by medical experts.
3. Non-toxic and patch-tested
Your child's skin should always be a priority. Look for products that are free from alcohol, parabens, and synthetic fragrance.
Right format for babies
Patches, roll-ons, or sprays? For infants, patches are a safer, non-invasive option that don’t require contact with skin and reduce the chance of accidental ingestion or eye irritation.
At Tots and Bubbles, we designed PatchPal to take the guesswork out of baby-safe protection. Made with plant-based essential oils like citronella, lemongrass, and lavender, these patches provide gentle, effective protection during mosquito-heavy months without ever touching your baby’s skin.
Do natural repellents work? Yes—when you choose the right ones and use them correctly. Monsoons are for splashing in puddles and cozy cuddles, not for worrying about every bite and bump. With a well-formulated natural mosquito repellent, you can stay protected and at peace knowing your baby is guarded by something that’s as safe as it is smart.
Simply stick the patch on their clothes, stroller, or cot and let nature do the rest.
