7 Tips for Using Insect Repellent Safely
Bugs will visit us regardless of whether we’re camping, on the beach, or hiking. Learn to use insect repellent safely no matter where you go.
Insects are a nuisance. They can get into your house, ruin food, and bother you while outdoors. If you’re allergic to insect bites or stings, insect repellent might be necessary for protection.
However, some repellents can have adverse effects on the human body, so it is important that you use them responsibly. This blog post will discuss insect repellent safety tips and recommended products.
7 Tips for Using Insect Repellent Safely
1. Always read the instructions on the label
Before you start using insect repellent, read the label to make sure it’s safe for you and/or your child.
- Be aware of any age or weight restrictions that may be placed on an insect repellent.
- Some repellents are not suitable for children under a certain age. Others should only be applied to specific areas of the body.
- Make sure the product is safe for your child to use, and that it will work properly before applying it.
2. Apply only to exposed skin or clothing, not under clothes
The chemicals that repel insects don’t work well when absorbed through your pores. So, make sure it’s on top of your clothes where it needs to protect you from pesky bugs. Also, avoid applying insect repellents near or around the eyes because the chemicals may cause irritation.
3. Use sparingly and in a well-ventilated area
Don’t use insect spray in a poorly ventilated area or over large amounts of skin. Doing so may cause you to experience irritation like burning, stinging and trouble breathing.
4. Avoid spraying on cuts or irritated skin
You will likely cause more irritation to those sensitive spots if you apply insect repellent directly on them. For this reason, it’s best to avoid these areas altogether.
5. Spray the outside of your home with an aerosol-based product before bedtime if needed
If you have a serious insect problem, it’s perfectly fine to spray insect repellent on the outside of your home before bedtime to fight off those pesky bugs.
However, if insect bites still keep you up at night, you can invest in a mosquito net or some other sleeping aid for extra protection.
6. Wash clothes that have been sprayed with insect repellent separately from other laundry items
Insect repellent is very strong and can irritate other fabrics, so wash clothes that have been sprayed with insect repellent in a separate load from your normal laundry. This will prevent any potential damage to the rest of your clothing.
7. Keep out of reach of children
Store them in an upright position with their caps tightly secured at all times. Also, keep them away from any heat sources such as lamps and candles.
Recommended Insect Repellent
DEET is considered to be the most effective insect repellent. DEET, also known as N, N-diethyl-3-meta-toluamide, is an active ingredient in insect spray. It’s highly effective and provides approximately 5 hours of protection against mosquitoes. It is available in several strengths of up to 30%.
DEET insect repellent is safe for everyone and doesn’t cause any danger to children, breastfeeding or pregnant women. However, if you are breastfeeding or pregnant it’s best to try non-chemical options as your first choice of protection against mosquitoes and other insects.
Conclusion
The best way to avoid insect bites is to stay indoors or wear long sleeves and pants. But if you must be outside, make sure that the repellent you are using has been approved for safety and protection against insects.
Remember not to apply too much of it because this can irritate your skin and increase your chances of developing a rash or skin irritation. You should also thoroughly wash your hands after applying insect repellant so as not to contaminate food or other items in contact with your hands.
Finally, always read the directions before applying anything directly on yourself.
Contact us for more recommendations on the best insect repellents and other measures you can take to protect yourself.