Insect Bites in Babies: Care & Repellent Safety | Parenting Hub
How to treat mosquito, midge and tick bites in babies, plus repellent safety for under-12-months in Australia.
Most insect bites are mildly itchy red bumps that settle within days. Here's how to soothe them, when to remove a tick safely, and what's actually safe to use on baby skin.
What bites look like
Mosquito and midge bites are firm pink-red bumps, often in clusters on exposed skin. Babies often react bigger than adults — a 2–3 cm raised lump is normal. Bites usually itch and settle over 3–7 days.
Soothing at home
- Cool compress for 10 minutes to ease itch and swelling.
- Plain emollient or calamine lotion is fine; antihistamine creams aren't recommended under 2.
- Keep nails short to reduce scratching and secondary infection.
- If a bite gets warm, red, weepy or spreads — see infected insect bites.
Repellent safety for babies
Australian guidance (RCH): DEET-based repellents up to 10% can be used sparingly on babies over 3 months. Picaridin up to 10% is also acceptable. Apply to clothing rather than skin where possible, avoid hands and face, and wash off when you come inside. For under-3-months, physical barriers (mosquito nets, long sleeves) are preferred.
Ticks
In tick-prone areas of Australia, freeze the tick in place with an ether-based spray (e.g. Wart-Off) rather than pulling — pulling can trigger an allergic reaction. Then see your GP. Never twist or squeeze a tick on a baby.
When to seek help
- Swelling of lips, face or tongue, or any breathing difficulty (call 000)
- Tick attached and you're unsure how to remove it
- Bite becomes red, hot, swollen, weepy or painful (possible infection)
- Fever or unwell baby after a tick bite
Common questions
Can I use insect repellent on a newborn?
Avoid chemical repellents on babies under 3 months. Use mosquito nets on prams and bassinets, and dress in light long sleeves and pants.
Should I pop the bite if it blisters?
No — keep it intact. Cover with a light dressing if your baby keeps scratching.