Are Mosquito Coils or Plug-in Repellents Safe to Use Around Babies?

Are Mosquito Coils or Plug-in Repellents Safe to Use Around Babies?

09-05-2025

Dengue, malaria, chikungunya, yellow fever, and the zika are all diseases spread by mosquito bites. We have been using mosquito coils and electric plug-in mosquito repellents for ages to combat these mosquito-borne diseases. Yes, they offer some relief, but what about their side effects? Are these mosquito control products safe to use if you have a baby at home?

Small babies are unaware of these pesky pests approaching them for a bite and are more vulnerable. So, as a parent or caregiver, we must find the best way to protect them from the tormenting mosquitoes. Physical barriers like mosquito nets work best, but they might not offer an optimum solution in all places; hence, we need to choose products that are practical and effective yet safe.

Read on to get a reality check of whether mosquito coils and plug-in repellents are safe for babies. If not, then what is a safe mosquito repellent for your baby?

Table of Contents

HiCare AutoMos – The Safest Mosquito Killer for Babies, Adults, and Pets

So, if neither the coils nor the plug-ins are safe for your babies, what should you try to protect them from mosquito bites? It is time you switch to the new AutoMos Mosquito Repellent Dispenser from the house of HiCare, a pioneer in providing digital hygiene and pest solutions. It is India’s 1st automatic mosquito repellent machine that emits 4 times less chemicals and is, therefore, considered safe for babies, the elderly, pregnant women, and pets at home.

Why Try AutoMos HiCare Mosquito Machine?

Curious to know why to try AutoMos and not any other mosquito repellent machine? You will get answers to all your concerns about this revolutionary mosquito control product. Check out a one-to-one comparison between AutoMos and mosquito coils and plug-ins, and you will decide for yourself what makes AutoMos the best mosquito repellent machine.

Feature

AutoMos Machine

Mosquito Coils

Plug-in Repellents

Safety

100% safe for babies, grandparents, pregnant ladies, and pets

Long-term exposure may cause side effects like nausea, headaches, dizziness, cough, and irritation in the eyes

Long-term exposure may cause side effects like nausea, headaches, dizziness, cough, and irritation in the eyes

Ingredients

12% Transfluthrin

Pyrethrum Powder, Pyrethrins, Tabu Powder, Sawdust, and Heavy Metals

Picaridin, Permethrin, Para-menthane diol, and DEET

Effectiveness

24-hour mosquito protection, even with open windows and doors

Effective up to an extent in rooms with closed windows and doors

Effective up to an extent in rooms with closed windows and doors

Easy to Use

Automatic battery-operated machine with a light sensor that works on its own after a one-time installation

Burning coils and leaving them unattended may cause fire accidents. You need to burn one coil every time for mosquito protection

Plug-ins are useless if there is a power cut. Need to Switch ON/ OFF daily before/ after use

Affordable

Costs just Rs. 5 per day because 1 original refill of AutoMos lasts for a good 90 days

One coil is worth approx. Rs. 8-10 will burn out per night.

Need to replace the mosquito repellent refills, worth approx. Rs. 50-60 every fortnight

Are Mosquito Coils Safe for a Baby?

Although trusted by several people as a go-to mosquito-repellent product, these incense coils are made using a dry paste of pyrethrum powder. However, if used for long hours, these mosquito coils can pollute the entire home and harm your baby's health. Too much exposure to mosquito coil smoke might cause nausea, dizziness, coughs, headaches, and respiratory issues.

Are Electric Plug-In Mosquito Repellent Machines Safe for a Baby?

The two most common electric plug-in mosquito repellents available in India come in the form of mats and vaporisers. These most widely used mosquito repellents release a smell that repels mosquitoes in a room. One of the shortcomings of these plug-in repellents is that they will be useless during power cuts. Using these repellents in your baby’s room for long hours might cause respiratory issues, cough, headaches, and dizziness.

Understanding Mosquito Coils

Mosquito coils are spiral-shaped incense sticks made from powdered insecticides and natural fillers. When lit, they release smoke containing active ingredients like allethrin, which repel mosquitoes by affecting their nervous system.

Although effective, experts caution against using mosquito coils as mosquito repellent for newborns, as the smoke can irritate delicate lungs, trigger allergies, or even worsen respiratory conditions. Coils work best outdoors or in well-ventilated areas, but for infants, safer, contact-free alternatives are always recommended.

Understanding Plug-in Mosquito Repellents

Plug-in mosquito repellents are electric devices that heat and vaporize liquid insecticides or mats to keep mosquitoes away. These repellents typically contain synthetic chemicals like prallethrin or transfluthrin, which spread into the air and disrupt mosquito behavior.

They’re popular for their convenience and continuous coverage, especially at night. However, parents should be cautious when using plug-in mosquito repellents around babies or newborns due to possible chemical exposure, making non-contact methods like nets or gentle natural repellents safer choices.

Potential Risks of Mosquito Coils for Babies

Using mosquito coils around babies can pose several health risks due to the smoke and particles they release:

  • Respiratory Irritation: Babies’ lungs are sensitive; coil smoke can trigger coughing, wheezing, or asthma-like symptoms.
  • Chemical Exposure: Burning coils produce particulate matter and chemicals like allethrin, which may affect developing lungs.
  • Eye and Skin Irritation: Close exposure can cause redness or itching.
  • Fire Risk: Lit coils placed near bedding or soft furnishings can accidentally cause burns or fire.

Because babies breathe faster than adults, they absorb more airborne pollutants, making coils unsuitable for use in nurseries or sleeping areas.

Potential Risks of Plug-in Repellents for Babies

Using plug-in repellents around babies can also raise health concerns:

  • Chemical Inhalation: Many devices release synthetic chemicals (such as prallethrin) that can irritate a baby’s nose, eyes, or skin.
  • Allergic Reactions: Sensitive infants may develop rashes or sneezing.
  • Electrical Safety: Plug-ins must be kept out of reach to avoid burns or shock risks.
  • Continuous Exposure: Babies spend hours sleeping in the same room, thereby increasing their potential for chemical absorption.

To reduce risks, experts recommend using natural mosquito repellents for babies or opting for non-contact options, such as mosquito nets or devices like AutoMos, which work without direct skin exposure.

Safer Alternatives for Mosquito Protection for Babies

Choosing a mosquito repellent for babies requires extra caution to protect delicate skin and health. Instead of harsh chemicals, try these safe mosquito repellent for infants options:

  • Mosquito Nets: Place over cribs, strollers, and play areas to create a natural barrier without chemicals.
  • Protective Clothing: Dress babies in lightweight, long-sleeved clothes and socks to reduce exposed skin.
  • Natural Repellents Nearby: Use mild essential oils like lavender or citronella in diffusers — never apply directly to babies’ skin.
  • AutoMos Mosquito Repellent Machine: This contact-free device releases repellent safely in the air, keeping mosquitoes away without touching the baby.
  • Keep Surroundings Clean: Remove stagnant water from pots and trays to prevent mosquito breeding indoors.
  • Use Fans: Mosquitoes avoid strong air movement, so a fan near the crib adds extra protection.

Tips for Using Mosquito Repellents Safely Around Babies

If you’re wondering how to get rid of mosquitoes while keeping your baby safe, follow these expert tips:

  • Avoid Direct Exposure: Do not apply repellents directly to a baby’s skin; instead, spray on clothing or fabrics nearby.
  • Use in Ventilated Spaces: Ensure good airflow when using coils or plug-ins to prevent irritation.
  • Keep Devices Out of Reach: Place mosquito killer machines or coils far from cribs and play areas.
  • Opt for Gentle Alternatives: Consider natural repellents or contact-free solutions like the AutoMos Mosquito Repellent Machine.
  • Limit Use During Sleep: Prefer mosquito nets around the crib for nighttime protection.

Expert Recommendations on Mosquito Control for Babies

When it comes to protecting babies, pediatricians and health experts stress extra care while choosing mosquito repellents:

  • Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Repellents with high DEET concentrations are not recommended for infants under 2 months.
  • Prefer Natural Repellents: Mild, plant-based products with ingredients mosquitoes hate can be safer alternatives.
  • Use Physical Barriers: Install mosquito nets over cribs, strollers, and windows instead of relying solely on sprays.
  • Choose Contact-Free Devices: Solutions like the AutoMos Mosquito Repellent Machine keep mosquitoes away without direct skin contact.
  • Keep the Baby’s Environment Clean: Remove standing water and use fans to reduce mosquito activity indoors.
  • Follow Product Age Guidelines: Always check repellent labels for minimum age suitability before use.

Takeaway

If you have a baby at home, then we assume you will try to give the best protection against mosquitoes. So, order AutoMos, the best mosquito killer machine online from the official website of HiCare, Amazon, Flipkart, and Meesho. Ordering it now will make you fetch it for amazing introductory discount offers. So, hurry and order AutoMos to protect your baby and entire family from mosquito bites.

FAQs

1. Are mosquito coils safe to use around babies?

It is generally not recommended to use mosquito coils around babies due to the smoke they produce, which can potentially irritate their delicate respiratory systems.

2. Can plug-in repellents be used around babies?

Plug-in repellents should be used with caution around babies. It is advisable to consult with a pediatrician before using them to ensure they are safe and suitable for your baby.

3. What are the potential risks of using mosquito coils or plug-in repellents around babies?

The potential risks include respiratory irritation, allergic reactions, and exposure to potentially harmful chemicals. Babies have sensitive systems, and their reactions can vary, so it's important to be cautious.

4. Are there any specific mosquito repellents recommended for babies?

When it comes to babies, it is advisable to use non-chemical methods of mosquito prevention, such as keeping them covered with lightweight clothing, using mosquito nets, and ensuring there are no stagnant water sources nearby. Or you can use AutoMos as a safest option for babies.

5. Can natural or herbal mosquito repellents be used around babies?

While natural or herbal mosquito repellents may seem safer, it is crucial to consult with a pediatrician before using them around babies. Some natural ingredients can also cause allergies or skin irritations in infants.

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