I've got three kids and I live in northern Alberta, so by the time sunny days actually make their way to us, we are SO READY for them. Unfortunately, that sunshine we love so much can also come with all the bugs. Bugs that bite, sting, and just downright annoy me. Summer? Totally my jam. Bug season? I'm a hard no on that one.
So, while being thankful for the longer days and excuse to drink iced coffee well into the afternoon, I'm also thankful for bug repellent. And I don't mean the warning-labelled, chemical-filled, probably-going-to-melt-your-skin-off sprays you find on many store shelves. Because if a spray has a poison warning, chances are I don't want it to go on my kids. My kids who stick everything, including their hands and clothing, in their mouths.
Natural alternatives are where it's at, especially when it comes to things we use on and around our kids. They're equally effective, without the scary list of toxins and side-effects that come with them. Just clean, natural products that really do work.
Beauty From Bees offers three options for keeping the bugs away - a stick, a spray, and a diffuser blend!
I love the stick for its long-lasting effect, while also being moisturizing and soothing on the skin. It's great for all-day use, and it smells absolutely incredible. I layer it on in the morning before we head out, and it really helps to keep my kids bite-free, which leads to easier bedtimes, which is most definitely a win in my world.
The spray is our go-to while we're out and about. It lives in my backpack because it's so quick and easy to use, and I'm not worried about my kids inhaling whatever it is that they stick in those aerosol cans. A quick spritz after they hit the lake or change their clothes, and we're back to being bug-free all afternoon! These products smell amazing, work incredibly well, and are definite must-haves for any summer adventure!
Evenings on the deck are one of my favourite summer memories, but bugs definitely know how to ruin the atmosphere! The diffuser blend is my go-to for creating a bite-free zone without chemical-filled candles, sprays, or scents! A few drops and we are loving both the amazing smell and the lack of flying friends!
Living where we do, finding insect repellants that work is a necessity, but that doesn't mean we have to lean on the chemical- and toxin-filled options. Safe, natural, and effective options are out there, and they're going to make that short sun season the best that it can be!
Kelsey Kitt is a work-at-home mom of three in northern Alberta. When she's not chasing kids around, she is also an author, freelance copywriter, wine lover, and digital content creator. You can follower her and all her family's adventures on Instagram at @mommydoesntlie.