Safely Shield Yourself: Using the Right Insect Repellents April 21 2023

Insect repellents are essential to keep us safe from harmful insect bites and diseases that they may carry. However, improper use of these products may lead to adverse effects on our health and the environment. Therefore, it is crucial to know how to use insect repellents safely. This article outlines seven ways to use insect repellents safely.

Choosing the Right Insect Repellent

The first step in using insect repellents safely is choosing the right product. Insect repellents are available in different forms like sprays, lotions, creams, and wipes. The active ingredients in repellents vary, and some may cause allergic reactions or other health issues. Therefore, it is essential to read the labels and choose a product that suits your needs and preferences. Products with DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide) are effective against a wide range of insects, but they should not be used on infants younger than two months.

Applying Insect Repellents Properly

Once you have chosen the right insect repellent, the next step is to apply it correctly. Follow the instructions on the label and apply the product evenly on exposed skin and clothing. Avoid applying it on cuts, wounds, or irritated skin. Also, do not apply the product on the face, instead, apply it on your palms and then rub it on your face, avoiding the eyes and mouth. Remember to apply the product frequently, especially if you are sweating or swimming.

Avoiding Overuse of Insect Repellents

Overuse of insect repellents can cause skin irritation, rashes, and other health issues. Therefore, it is essential to use the product as recommended on the label. Do not apply more than necessary, and do not use it continuously for an extended period. If you are using other skincare products, apply the insect repellent last to avoid interfering with their effectiveness.

Protecting Infants and Young Children

Infants and young children are more susceptible to the adverse effects of insect repellents. Therefore, it is crucial to protect them from insect bites using other methods like covering their strollers with mosquito nets, dressing them in long-sleeved shirts and pants, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours. If you must use insect repellents on children older than two months, choose a product with a low concentration of DEET, picaridin, or IR3535.

Storing Insect Repellents Properly

Insect repellents should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from heat and direct sunlight. Do not store them in your car or any other place where they can be exposed to high temperatures. Also, keep them out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.

Disposing of Insect Repellents Properly

Dispose of insect repellents properly to avoid environmental pollution. Do not dispose of them in the trash or pour them down the drain. Instead, check the label for disposal instructions and follow them accordingly. If there are no disposal instructions, contact your local waste management authority for guidance.

Using Alternative Methods to Repel Insects

Insect repellents are not the only way to protect yourself from insect bites. There are other alternative methods like using mosquito nets, wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours. You can also use natural insect repellents like citronella, lemongrass, or lavender essential oils. However, keep in mind that natural repellents may not be as effective as chemical ones and may require more frequent application.

Conclusion

Insect repellents are essential to protect us from insect bites and the diseases they may carry. However, improper use of these products may lead to adverse effects on our health and the environment. Choosing the right product, applying it correctly, avoiding overuse, protecting infants and young children, storing and disposing of it properly, and using alternative methods to repel insects are the seven ways to use insect repellents safely. By following these guidelines, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from insect bites.

Looking for an effective way to keep bugs away during your outdoor activities? Look no further than our all-natural insect repellent! Made in the USA and available in extra strength, our bug spray is the perfect solution for anyone in need of a heavy-duty insect repel. Order now and become our satisfied customer as the top insect repellent supplier in NY, MI, VT, and NH!