Stick to nets and long sleeves for newborns

There is no effective non-toxic mosquito repellent approved for infants under two months, so physical barriers are your only safe option.

The reason is simple: babies that young have thinner skin and a higher surface-to-body-weight ratio. Regulators (EPA, CDC, AAP) recommend against any chemical repellent—including DEET, picaridin, and IR3535—for infants under two months. “Natural” options like oil of lemon eucalyptus are actually banned for kids under three. And citronella, lemongrass, or other plant oils? They’re not tested for safety on newborns, and their effectiveness is weak even on adults.

So what actually works? Mosquito nets over the bassinet or car seat. Long-sleeve onesies and pants (lightweight, breathable). Stroller nets. Keep baby indoors at dawn and dusk. If you’re in a high-risk area for dengue or malaria, check with a pediatrician—but in most places, physical protection is plenty.

Don’t take risks with a newborn’s skin. The solution is boring but it works.