Midges can be a nuisance when you’re trying to enjoy the outdoors. Their small size and persistent swarming behavior can quickly ruin a day in the great outdoors. However, there are several effective ways to prevent midges from landing on you and spoiling your outdoor adventures.
One of the most effective ways to keep midges at bay is to use insect repellent. Look for repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, as these ingredients are known to be effective against midges. Be sure to apply the repellent to exposed skin and clothing before heading outdoors to create a barrier against these pesky insects.
Another way to deter midges is to wear light-colored clothing that covers your skin. Midges are attracted to dark colors, so wearing light-colored clothing can help make you less appealing to them. Additionally, consider wearing long sleeves, pants, and socks to further protect yourself from midge bites.
Effective Ways to Prevent Midges from Landing on You
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Avoid heavily scented lotions, perfumes, and hair products as they attract midges. |
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Wear light-colored clothing as midges are attracted to dark colors. |
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Use insect repellent containing DEET to deter midges from landing on your skin. |
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Stay away from standing water, marshy areas, and areas with high grass where midges are commonly found. |
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Cover exposed skin with long sleeves, pants, and hats to prevent midges from coming into contact with your skin. |
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Install screens on windows and doors to keep midges from entering your home. |
Use Insect Repellent
One effective way to prevent midges from landing on you is to use insect repellent. Look for repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, as these are known to be effective against midges.
How to apply:
Follow the instructions on the repellent bottle carefully, making sure to cover all exposed skin. Reapply as needed, especially if you are sweating or swimming.
Using insect repellent can help create a barrier between you and the midges, making it less likely for them to land on you and bite. Remember to always carry insect repellent with you when venturing outdoors in midge-infested areas.
Wear Light-colored Clothing
One effective way to prevent midges from landing on you is to wear light-colored clothing. Midges are attracted to dark colors, so opting for light-colored clothing can help deter them from landing on you.
Avoid Perfumes and Scented Lotions
Midges are attracted to strong scents, including perfumes and scented lotions. By avoiding applying these products before heading outdoors, you can help deter midges from landing on you.
Opt for unscented or natural alternatives to avoid attracting midges. This can help reduce the chances of getting bitten and minimize the annoyance of these tiny insects.
Additionally, avoid wearing brightly colored clothing or floral patterns, as these can also attract midges. Stick to light-colored, loose-fitting clothing to help prevent midges from being drawn to you.
Cover Up with Long Sleeves and Pants
One effective way to prevent midges from landing on you is to cover up with long sleeves and pants. By wearing clothing that covers your skin, you can create a physical barrier that prevents midges from coming into contact with your skin.
Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to stay cool and comfortable while still protecting yourself from midges. Opt for light colors, as dark colors tend to attract insects.
Tips for covering up:
- Wear a long-sleeved shirt that covers your arms completely.
- Choose pants or long skirts that cover your legs down to your ankles.
- Tuck your pants into your socks or boots to prevent midges from crawling up your legs.
Avoid Areas with Standing Water
One effective way to prevent midges from landing on you is to avoid areas with standing water. Midges breed and lay eggs in stagnant water, so by staying away from these areas, you can reduce the likelihood of encountering a large number of midges.
If you are near a body of water, such as a pond or lake, try to stay away from the shoreline where midges are most likely to be present. Additionally, be cautious around areas with puddles or containers of still water, as these can also attract midges.
Install Screens on Windows and Doors
One effective way to prevent midges from entering your home is to install screens on windows and doors. These screens act as a barrier, preventing midges from flying into your living spaces. Make sure the screens are in good condition and free of any holes or tears that midges could squeeze through. Regularly inspect and maintain the screens to ensure they are functioning properly.
Use Fans and Air Conditioning
One effective way to prevent midges from landing on you is to use fans and air conditioning. Midges are weak fliers, so having a fan blowing air can make it difficult for them to fly close to you. Additionally, midges are attracted to warm, humid environments, so using air conditioning to keep the temperature cool and dry can help deter them from approaching you.
Apply Natural Remedies like Citronella or Lavender
One effective way to prevent midges from landing on you is to apply natural remedies like citronella or lavender. These essential oils have strong scents that midges find unpleasant, making them less likely to bother you.
- Choose a natural bug spray or lotion containing citronella or lavender oil and apply it to exposed skin before heading outdoors.
- You can also create your own DIY repellent by mixing a few drops of citronella or lavender oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil.
- Another option is to burn citronella or lavender candles or incense around your outdoor space to help deter midges from coming near.
Avoid Being Outdoors at Dawn and Dusk
One of the most effective ways to prevent midges from landing on you is to avoid being outdoors at dawn and dusk. These are the times when midges are most active and looking for a host to feed on. By staying indoors during these peak times, you can greatly reduce your chances of getting bitten.
| Advantages: | Less exposure to midges |
| Disadvantages: | Potentially missing out on outdoor activities during these times |
Keep Your Outdoor Area Clean and Free of Standing Water
One effective way to prevent midges from landing on you is to keep your outdoor area clean and free of standing water. Midges are attracted to stagnant water where they lay their eggs, so by eliminating any sources of standing water, you can significantly reduce the number of midges in your vicinity.
Be sure to regularly empty and clean any containers that collect water, such as bird baths, flower pots, and gutters. Also, consider installing a fountain or pond aerator to keep water moving and prevent midges from breeding.
In addition to removing standing water, keeping your outdoor area clean can also help deter midges. Trim back overgrown vegetation, mow your lawn regularly, and pick up any fallen leaves or debris that could provide hiding spots for midges.
Stay in Motion to Prevent Midges from Landing
One effective way to prevent midges from landing on you is to keep moving. Midges are attracted to still bodies, so staying in motion can help deter them from landing on you. Whether you are walking, jogging, or even just moving your arms and legs while sitting, staying active can make it difficult for midges to find a suitable landing spot.
Use Mosquito Netting for Added Protection
When spending time outdoors in areas known for midges, consider using mosquito netting for additional protection. Mosquito netting can be draped over hats, clothing, or even attached to camping gear to create a barrier between you and the pesky insects.
Mosquito netting is lightweight and breathable, making it comfortable to wear even in hot weather. It allows fresh air to circulate while keeping midges at bay. Make sure to securely fasten the netting to prevent any gaps where midges can sneak through.