It’s that time of year again when the kids don’t just need protection from the sun, but also from the biting insects that come along with the great outdoors. Here are some great, natural (DEET-free), kid-friendly products I’ve come across to fend off all the nasty blood-suckers.

Firstly, this Anti-Bug Balm from Badger is touted by “bug magnets” to be the best. It’s a little sticky, but effective. Plus the balm form allows for precise application to just the areas you want (i.e. not in your kids’ eyes).

$7.75 at drugstore.com

Bug Band Insect Repelling Towelettes

I didn’t know bug repellent came in towelette form, let alone a repellent that’s all natural and effective. Instead of using citronella as the main deterrent ingredient, this company uses geraniol, which has been tested and shown to be as safe and even more effective than citronella against blood-feeding insects. Great for use on kids and on-the-go, plus the used towelettes are fully biodegradable.

$6.99 at drugstore.com

Bug Band Insect Repelling Band

The Bug Band company also makes an actual bug-repelling band that you can wear on your wrist or attach to a stroller, backpack, belt loop, whatever- and it keeps the bugs away. Crazy! I’ve never seen such a thing. It’s main ingredient is geraniol, which is safe and effective, even for kids. It’s reusable for up to 120 hours when you keep it in the resealable container, and stays effective even while swimming. It also has a great break-away feature for added safety with kids. When you’re done with it, it can be recycled with your plastics. Pretty cool. $4.95 each at drugstore.com

All Terrain Kids Herbal Armor is supposed to be one of the most effective on the market. If you’re really serious about keeping the bugs off you or your kids, if nothing else has worked, this is the go-to product. It’s also longer-lasting than most other natural bug sprays, lasting 2-3 hours before reapplication is needed. For use on kids 1 and over only. Also available as insect repellent and sunscreen (SPF 15) in one!

$6.55 at drugstore.com

California Baby Bug Repellent Spray

The great thing about this spray is that in addition to repelling biting insects, it soothes existing bug bites you already have. It’s comprised of natural repellent oils- citronella & cedarwood- in a formula that is gentle enough for even sensitive skin. It also contains no nut oils, soy, oat, or dairy, so it’s great for those with allergies. It’s available in a lotion form too, but the spray is quicker and easier for those with squirmy kids.

$10.70 at drugstore.com