Frequently Asked Questions

Here's how you can use PatchO safely:
✅ Peel and stick the patch onto your child’s clothing, ideally near the collarbone or upper chest (not on skin).
🧍 Use one patch at a time.
⏱  Start with shorter wear times (1–2 hours) for younger children or first-time users.
🚫 Discontinue use if irritation, rash, coughing, or any discomfort occurs.
👶 Use only with active adult supervision.
🐾 Store patches out of reach of children and pets.
💨 Use in well ventilated spaces. Avoid placing under tight clothing or blankets — airflow helps diffusion.
👪 Use alongside your child — your example of compliance, calm, and breathing helps them feel safer and more attuned.

You can learn more about PatchO Safety here and see our How to Use Page to help you get started.

PatchO is designed for children aged 2 years and older. We’ve chosen gentle, well-researched essential oils in low concentrations, delivered through a slow-release patch that’s worn on clothing — not the skin.

For children under 2, we recommend waiting. Young children have developing respiratory and immune systems, which can be more sensitive to certain essential oils, including Lemongrass and Benzoin. Please consult your pediatrician for alternatives more suitable for infants.

Adults should always supervise use and discontinue if any signs of sensitivity arise.

Refer to our dedicated PatchO Safety page to learn more.

Yes — we recommend a Patch Test:

👃 Start with a sniff test – Open the bag and let your child smell the patch before use.
⏱  Shorter durations – Begin with just 1–2 hours and observe.
👕 Apply to outer layers – Stick the patch to a cardigan or jacket instead of a t-shirt.
📒 Keep a little patch diary – Note how your child responds, emotionally and physically. Observe for any signs of irritation or strong reaction.

If all is well, you're good to go. 

Many families with sensitivities use PatchO safely since it doesn’t touch the skin. That said, this is what we recommend:

✅ Do a Patch Test first
✅ Start with shorter use (1 - 2 hours).
✅ Apply to outer layers of clothing, not near the face. 
✅ Monitor your child closely.
✅ Consulting your GP or health care provider, particularly if you're unsure — your comfort and peace of mind come first.

As always, trust your instincts — every child is different. Our patches are an emotional support tool only, not a replacement for medical care when needed.

If your child under 2 is nearby, you can still use PatchO with care:

Tips for safer use in mixed-age households:

• Place the patch on the older child’s outer layer (e.g., jacket or top)
• Avoid close proximity to an infant’s nose or face
• Do not co-sleep with a child wearing the patch
• Use only one patch at a time
• Monitor for any signs of irritation or discomfort

If younger siblings are around, applying patches mindfully helps keep the space emotionally safe for them too—and gives you a clearer moment of emotional intention.

If your baby has asthma or known scent sensitivities, speak with your healthcare provider before using essential oils in shared spaces.

PatchO Comfort Companions are designed for use on children's clothing only — but we know many parents are wearing the hats of caregiver, nurturer, and snuggler all at once.

All essential oils used in PatchO are selected with care and safety in mind. Based on internationally recognised safety references (including Essential Oil Safety by Tisserand & Young), our blend is considered safe for use around pregnant and breastfeeding adults when used as directed.

Because PatchO uses passive aromatherapy — not topical application — and only very small amounts of essential oils, it poses very low risk of irritation or systemic absorption for nearby adults.

If you're pregnant (especially in the first trimester) or highly sensitive to scent, we recommend:

• Using PatchO in a well-ventilated space.
• Avoiding extended close proximity (e.g., avoid sleeping directly against the patch).
• Discontinuing use if you experience any discomfort.
• Consulting your GP or obstetrician, particularly if you're unsure — your comfort and peace of mind come first.

For most kids 4+, daily use is fine. For toddlers 2–4, use occasionally for transitions or tricky moments.  As with all aromatherapy, less is more with little ones. Start slow, offer scent breaks, and let your child guide the way.

Rather than reaching for the more patches, also remember that, it helps if parents co-regulate with your child. By using the patch alongside your child - your example of compliance, calm, and breathing helps them feel safer and more attuned.

Also, PatchO supports emotional presence, but isn’t a substitute for comforting from a caring parent — emotional attunement is still the most powerful support.

Yes — but start with shorter use first and monitor. Many families use PatchO during bedtime, naps, or travel. For younger children or first-time users, test for 1–2 hours before extended use. If unsure, speak with your healthcare provider.

Sensitisation is when the body becomes more reactive to an ingredient after repeated exposure — unlike an allergy, which is immediate.

Signs of sensitisation or irritation:

• Rash or redness (especially if the patch brushed skin).
• Sneezing or coughing.
• Headache, fussiness.
• Rare but serious: wheezing or shortness of breath.

If your child shows any of these signs, discontinue use immediately and consult a medical professional if symptoms persist.

Here's a summary outlining the reaction type, common signs, and what to do, . If in doubt, seek medical attention. 

• Mild Irritation - Rubbing eyes, slight sneezing, mild fussiness. What to do: Remove patch, monitor.
• Sensitisation - Rash, repeated sneezing/coughing, hives. What to do: Discontinue use, consult GP.
• Respiratory - Wheezing, coughing fits, shortness of breath. What to do: Seek medical attention.
• Allergic Reaction - Swelling, itching, vomiting, rash on face. What to do: Call doctor immediately.

There are no known long-term side effects however if your child does shows any signs of sensitivity — like fussiness or discomfort — simply pause use and try again later. If the symptoms continue to occur, discontinue use and consult your GP.

In the rare chance that you experience symptoms like sensitisation, respiratory or allergic reactions, seek medical attention.

For children with medical conditions or known sensitivities, please check with your healthcare provider before use.

As always, trust your instincts — every child is different. Our patches are an emotional support tool only, not a replacement for medical care when needed.

Also, PatchO supports emotional presence, but isn’t a substitute for comforting from a caring parent — emotional attunement is still the most powerful support.

Many families with sensory-sensitive or neurodivergent children find PatchO helpful, especially as part of a visual and scent-based routine. Since they don’t touch the skin and are gentle in both scent and texture, they’re a great low-pressure tool — but every child is different, so it’s always good to try with care.

PatchO is made for kids — not pets. Because our patches are worn on clothing and use gentle, plant-based essential oils, they’re unlikely to cause issues when used as directed. However, animals — especially cats and small dogs — can be more sensitive to scents than humans.

If your pet seems bothered around the patch, we recommend discontinuing use nearby and speaking with your vet for peace of mind.