How to keep midges away
Midges are tiny flying insects that can cause annoyance with their persistent swarming and biting. They often thrive in damp and humid conditions such as near lakes, rivers, and forests. If you are planning to spend time outdoors in these areas, it is important to take precautions to keep midges away.
One effective way to keep midges at bay is to use insect repellents that are specifically designed to repel these insects. Look for repellents that contain DEET, as it has been proven to be effective against midges. Apply the repellent to any exposed skin, such as your arms and legs, before going outside.
It is also recommended to wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants when venturing into midge-infested areas. This will provide an additional barrier of protection against their bites. Additionally, consider wearing light-colored clothing, as midges are attracted to dark colors.
Creating a physical barrier can also help to keep midges away. You can do this by using fine mesh netting or screens around outdoor sitting areas, tents, and caravans. This will prevent midges from entering these spaces and allow you to enjoy the outdoors without being bothered by them.
Midges are most active during dawn and dusk, so it is advisable to avoid being outside during these times if possible. If you do need to be outside, try to stay in breezy areas, as midges are not strong flyers and are less likely to be present in windy conditions. Consider using an electric fan to create a constant breeze around your outdoor space.
Lastly, it is a good idea to keep the area around your home free from standing water, as midges lay their eggs in moist soil and stagnant water. Regularly drain any water sources such as bird baths, flower pots, and gutters to reduce the midge population near your home.
Tips to repel midges and keep them away
Midges, also known as gnats or no-see-ums, can be a nuisance during certain times of the year. If you’re tired of these tiny insects buzzing around and biting you, here are a few tips to repel and keep midges away:
1. Use insect repellent
The most effective way to keep midges away is by using insect repellent. Look for a repellent that contains ingredients such as DEET or picaridin, as these are known to be effective against midges. Apply the repellent according to the instructions on the packaging, and reapply as needed, especially if you’ve been sweating or swimming.
2. Cover up
When spending time outdoors in an area infested with midges, it’s important to cover up exposed skin. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks to minimize the amount of skin available for midges to bite. For added protection, consider tucking your pants into your socks and wearing a hat.
3. Avoid prime midge feeding times
Midges are most active during dawn and dusk, so try to plan your outdoor activities around these times to minimize your exposure to these bugs.
Additionally, midge activity tends to increase in humid and still conditions, so if possible, choose to engage in outdoor activities on breezy days or in well-ventilated areas.
4. Remove stagnant water sources
Midges breed in stagnant water, so it’s essential to eliminate any standing water sources near your home. Empty and clean birdbaths, flower pots, and any other containers that may collect water. Additionally, ensure that gutters are clean and not clogged, preventing water from pooling.
5. Use fans or screens
Keep midges away from your living areas by using fans or installing screens on windows and doors. Midges are weak fliers, so even a small breeze created by a fan can discourage them from entering a room. Screens will act as a physical barrier, preventing midges from entering your home while still allowing fresh air to circulate.
By implementing these tips, you can enjoy the outdoors without the nuisance of midges. Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using insect repellents, and stay proactive in eliminating potential midge breeding grounds around your home.
Natural remedies
While there are many commercial insect repellents available on the market, you can also try some natural remedies to keep midges away. These remedies are often more environmentally friendly and safer for your skin.
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Lavender oil Midges dislike the strong scent of lavender oil. Apply a few drops of lavender oil to your clothing, or mix it with water in a spray bottle and mist it on your skin. This can act as a natural repellent and keep midges at bay. |
Citronella candles Citronella candles emit a strong and pleasant aroma that repels midges. Place these candles around your outdoor area to create a protective barrier against midge infestations. |
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Neem oil Neem oil is a natural insect repellent that is safe to use on your skin. Apply a thin layer of neem oil to exposed areas of your body to repel midges. Alternatively, mix it with a carrier oil like coconut oil and apply it as a lotion. |
Peppermint oil Peppermint oil has a strong scent that midges find unpleasant. Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with water and spray it around your home or rub it directly onto your skin to deter midges. |
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Vinegar traps Fill a bowl or jar with vinegar and cover it with plastic wrap. Poke small holes in the plastic wrap. The midges will be attracted to the vinegar smell and will fly inside, but they won’t be able to escape. This is an effective way to trap and eliminate midges indoors. |
Citrus peels Midges dislike the scent of citrus. Place peels from oranges, lemons, or grapefruits around your outdoor areas and near windows to keep midges away. Replace the peels every few days for maximum effectiveness. |
Remember, natural remedies may not be as long-lasting as commercial insect repellents, so be sure to reapply them regularly for optimum protection against midges.
Essential oils that work
Essential oils have long been used as a natural remedy to repel insects, including midges. These oils contain compounds that not only have a pleasant scent, but also act as deterrents against these pesky bugs. Here are some essential oils that have been proven to be effective in keeping midges away:
1. Citronella oil
Citronella oil is well-known for its ability to repel insects, including midges. Its strong and distinctive aroma is a natural deterrent, making it a popular choice for warding off these pests. You can apply citronella oil directly onto your skin or create a homemade mosquito repellent spray by combining it with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil.
2. Lemon eucalyptus oil
Lemon eucalyptus oil is derived from a specific type of eucalyptus plant and has been proven to be an effective natural insect repellent. It contains a compound called PMD (p-Menthane-3,8-diol) that has been shown to provide long-lasting protection against midges. You can mix lemon eucalyptus oil with a carrier oil and apply it to your skin or clothing.
3. Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil not only has a refreshing scent, but it also works as a natural repellent against midges. The strong aroma of peppermint oil masks the attractants that midges are drawn to, making it less likely for them to land on you. You can dilute peppermint oil with a carrier oil and apply it to your skin or use it aromatically in a diffuser or spray.
4. Lavender oil
Lavender oil is well-loved for its calming and soothing properties, but it also has insect-repellent qualities. The floral aroma of lavender oil can help keep midges at bay while adding a pleasant scent to your surroundings. You can apply lavender oil directly onto your skin or use it in a diffuser to enjoy its benefits.
5. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, but it is also effective in repelling midges. Its potent scent masks the attractants that midges are attracted to, making it a useful oil to have on hand. You can mix tea tree oil with a carrier oil and apply it to your skin or use it in a diffuser to deter midges.
Before using essential oils, it’s important to keep in mind that some people may be allergic or sensitive to certain oils. It’s recommended to do a patch test before applying the oils to a larger area of your skin. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
Avoid attractants
To avoid attracting midges to your surroundings, it is important to eliminate or reduce attractants that might lure them in. Here are some tips to help you avoid attracting midges:
- Stay away from scented products: Midges are attracted to strong scents, so it’s best to avoid using perfumes, scented lotions, and scented soaps when you know you’ll be in an area prone to midge activity.
- Avoid wearing bright colors: Midges are also attracted to bright colors, so it’s best to wear light-colored clothing that blends in with the surroundings.
- Minimize sweating: Midges are attracted to body heat, sweat, and the carbon dioxide exhaled when we breathe. To avoid attracting midges, try to minimize sweating by staying in shaded areas, wearing lightweight and breathable clothing, and using fans or air conditioning when possible.
- Keep your surroundings clean: Midges are attracted to rotting food, garbage, and standing water. Make sure to properly dispose of rubbish, clean up any food spills, and eliminate any sources of stagnant water around your home or outdoor areas. This will help reduce the number of midges in your surroundings.
- Use unscented insect repellents: Applying an unscented insect repellent can help deter midges. Look for products containing DEET or picaridin, and follow the instructions on the label for proper use.
- Avoid outdoor activities during peak midge activity: Midge activity tends to be highest during dawn and dusk. If possible, try to schedule outdoor activities during less active times to minimize your contact with midges.
By following these tips and minimizing attractants, you can reduce the chances of attracting midges and enjoy your time outdoors with greater comfort.
Cover up exposed skin
Midges are attracted to exposed skin, so one of the best ways to keep them away is by covering up as much as possible. Wear clothing that is loose-fitting and made of lightweight fabric. Opt for long-sleeved tops, long trousers, and socks. Choose light-colored clothing, as midges are less attracted to light colors.
If you’re planning to be outdoors in an area with midges, consider wearing a hat with a wide brim to protect your face and neck. You can also wear a lightweight scarf or bandana to cover your neck and lower face.
Remember to tuck your trousers into your socks and wear shoes or boots rather than sandals. Midges are opportunistic biters and will often target your ankles and feet.
To provide an extra layer of protection, you can apply insect repellent to your exposed skin. Look for a repellent that contains DEET, as midges are less likely to be deterred by natural alternatives.
By covering up exposed skin, you can reduce your chances of getting bitten by midges and enjoy your time outdoors without constantly swatting them away.
Tips:
| • Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing |
| • Opt for long-sleeved tops and long trousers |
| • Choose light-colored clothing |
| • Wear a hat with a wide brim to protect your face and neck |
| • Use a lightweight scarf or bandana to cover your neck and lower face |
| • Tuck your trousers into your socks |
| • Wear shoes or boots instead of sandals |
| • Apply insect repellent to exposed skin |
| • Look for a repellent that contains DEET |
Use insect repellent
An effective way to keep midges away is to use insect repellent. There are a variety of insect repellents available on the market that can help to ward off these pesky insects. Look for those that specifically target midges or offer broad protection against a range of outdoor pests.
When using insect repellent, it is important to follow the instructions provided on the product label. Apply the repellent evenly to all exposed skin surfaces, as well as clothing. Be sure to avoid applying it to any cuts or irritated skin.
Some popular and effective insect repellent ingredients to look for include DEET, picaridin, and lemon eucalyptus oil. DEET is a common active ingredient found in many repellents and offers long-lasting protection against a variety of insects, including midges. Picaridin is a synthetic compound that is known for its effectiveness against midges and other biting insects. Lemon eucalyptus oil is a natural alternative to synthetic repellents and has been shown to be effective against midges.
When using insect repellent, it is important to reapply it regularly, especially if you are sweating or spending a lot of time outdoors. Follow the recommended reapplication frequency provided on the product label.
It is also worth noting that some types of clothing can provide an extra layer of protection against midges. Consider wearing long sleeves, long pants, and socks to cover exposed skin and reduce the chances of being bitten. Additionally, light-colored clothing may also help to deter midges, as they tend to be attracted to dark and vibrant colors.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Effectively repels midges and other biting insects | May need to reapply regularly |
| Various options available, including natural alternatives | Can cause skin irritation in some individuals |
| Provides additional layer of protection when combined with appropriate clothing | Some repellents may have a strong smell |
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