Is DEET Safe? Using Mosquito Repellents on Adults and Children

DEET is one of the most widely studied and used mosquito repellent ingredients, and also one of the most worried-about. Parents in particular ask whether it is safe to put on a child. Understanding what is known and how to use it carefully can help you decide.

This guide is general information, not medical advice. For specific concerns, speak to a doctor or paediatrician and follow the product label.

The short answer

When used as directed, DEET-based repellents are considered by many health authorities to be safe and effective for most people, including children above a minimum age and pregnant women, though recommendations vary by country, so follow the label and medical advice. Safety depends on using the right concentration, applying sparingly to exposed skin only, avoiding eyes, mouth and broken skin, not applying to the hands of young children, washing it off after use and not overusing. Many guidelines advise against use on infants younger than about two months, so use nets and other measures for babies. If you prefer to avoid DEET, other repellents such as picaridin are options.

What is DEET?

• A synthetic repellent developed decades ago and widely used worldwide.
• It works by making you less attractive to mosquitoes rather than killing them.
• Available in different concentrations, which mainly affect how long protection lasts.

Safety in general

• Large reviews of use have found serious reactions to be rare when products are used as directed.
• Misuse, such as swallowing, applying heavily or for long periods or on broken skin, can cause problems.
• Some people experience skin irritation.

How to use it safely

1. Read and follow the label.
2. Choose the lowest concentration that gives the protection time you need.
3. Apply to exposed skin and clothing, not under clothing.
4. Do not apply to cuts, wounds or irritated skin.
5. Avoid eyes and mouth, and apply to the face by hand, not by spraying.
6. Do not spray in enclosed spaces or near food.
7. Wash off with soap and water when you no longer need it.
8. Wash treated clothing before wearing it again.
9. Store out of reach of children.

Children

• Follow the age limits and concentration advice on the label and from your doctor.
• Adults should apply it, not the child. Apply to your own hands first, then to the child, avoiding hands, eyes and mouth.
• Do not use repellent on infants younger than the age stated by guidance, commonly about two months. Use nets and clothing instead.
• Use the lowest effective concentration and limit how often it is applied.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Many health bodies consider repellents such as DEET acceptable when needed, to prevent mosquito-borne diseases, but ask your doctor for advice for your situation.

If there is a reaction

• Wash the skin with soap and water.
• If the product gets in the eyes, rinse with plenty of water.
• If swallowed or if someone has a serious reaction, seek medical help immediately and take the product with you.

Alternatives

Other repellents such as picaridin and IR3535 are options, alongside screens, nets, fans and protective clothing.

When to call a professional

If mosquitoes are a constant problem, reduce the need for repellents by treating breeding sites around your home.

Frequently asked questions

Is DEET harmful to plastic and fabrics?

It can damage some plastics and synthetic fabrics. Keep it away from them.

Does higher DEET work better?

It lasts longer, not better.

Can I use it every day?

Follow the label and wash it off after use.

Is it safe for pets?

No. Do not use human repellents on pets. Ask a vet.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on mosquito control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full mosquito control guide for Bangalore.