How to Protect your Baby from Mosquitoes in the Monsoon

The monsoons are a welcome relief after a hot summer. But, what’s NOT really welcome is the number of mosquitoes and consequently mosquito-transmitted diseases such as dengue, chikungunya and malaria. Your delicate little ones are especially susceptible to mosquito bites during this weather. So, let’s learn all about how to keep your little ones safe and protected against mosquitoes this monsoon.

Mosquito bites typically look like round red bumps on the skin, with a small puncture mark in the center and can also be swollen. Itching caused by mosquito bites can leave infants fussy & uncomfortable, and can cause their sensitive skin to become red and swollen. In case this itching is accompanied by other symptoms such as vomiting, body aches, rashes, swollen lymph nodes, make sure you contact your child’s heath care provider as these could be signs of an allergic reaction or a mosquito-borne illness.

Older children too are prone to mosquito bites as they spend a lot of time playing outdoors, particularly in the evenings. However, there are many steps that you can take to protect your newborn babies and older children from mosquito bites. Here are some of our top tips on protecting babies & kids from mosquitoes this monsoon.

1. Stay away from mosquito-infested areas and clear any stagnant water in your home or surrounding areas
Keep baby away from mosquito-prone areas. Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, which is more likely to fill up in and around your home during the rains. Make sure you keep your home and surrounding areas clean and get rid of any standing water. Do a proper check not just in your home but around the property as well to clear up any clogged gutters, buckets, flower pots, water tanks, coolers, and anywhere water can collect. You should also trim any overgrown plants and greenery around your home.

2. Dress baby in appropriate clothing
One of the best ways to protect baby from mosquito bites is to cover exposed skin with clothing as far as possible. Dress them in clothing that shields their arms and legs. However, opt for loose, breathable clothing as mosquitoes tend to bite through tight fitting clothes. Breathable, thermo-regulating fabrics such as bamboo are also preferable in the humid weather. Mosquitoes tend to be attracted to bright colours, so try and choose lighter coloured clothing.

3. Use DEET-free mosquito repellent products with natural ingredients on baby’s skin
Keep baby’s skin protected by applying a safe & baby-friendly mosquito repellent that is made without DEET and other harmful chemicals. A DEET-free mosquito repellent such as the Softsens Natural Mosquito Repellent Gel & Spray is designed to be completely safe for babies too. It uses natural oils such as lemongrass, citronella, eucalyptus, lavender etc. to naturally repel mosquitoes, keeping baby’s skin protected. You can safely apply this on baby’s skin at home or before going outdoors.

4. Keep baby cool, dry and sweat free
Mosquitoes also tend to be drawn to sweaty skin. Try and keep baby’s skin cool and dry during this weather. Use our pediatrician-approved baby wipes to keep their skin soft and clean.

5. Keep mosquitoes away with crib/stroller netting and window screens
Avoid commonly used mosquito coils and aerosol sprays that can be dangerous for babies. Instead, protect their sleeping area with a baby-safe netting that can be placed around their cot and even their strollers. Install insect screens on your windows and keep doors and windows closed as far as possible.

6. Pick outdoor playtime wisely
Mosquitoes are more active during dawn, dusk and early evening. Set an appropriate playtime so that your kids are not outdoors when the mosquitoes are most active.

7. Treat bites immediately and try and keep baby from scratching at the skin
Mosquito bites can cause serious itching, which in turn makes the skin even redder and more inflamed or can even cause infection when skin is broken. If you notice that your baby has a mosquito bite, follow these steps to treat it immediately:
- First, gently clean the skin with a mild soap and water.
- Soothe the area by applying a cold compress to the irritated skin
- Apply the Softsens After Bite Recovery roll-on over the area to instantly reduce itching, swelling, and pain. This all-natural, effective, non-stinging formula is enriched with 9 natural oils to soothe & moisturize baby’s delicate skin and treat the bite.
- Prevent your little one from scratching at the skin.

8. Stay up to date regarding common mosquito-borne diseases
Stay informed about mosquito-transmitted diseases and their symptoms so that you can recognize these if in case your little one or someone in the family falls sick. Talk to your child’s healthcare provider for more information if necessary.

We hope this helps you and your little ones stay safe from pesky mosquitoes this monsoon! Click here to explore our Complete Natural Mosquito Repellent Range, that’s safely formulated for infants and the whole family. Know any other tips to helpprotect babies from mosquitobites? Share them in the comments below.