Midges can be a nuisance when you’re trying to enjoy the great outdoors. These tiny insects are attracted to our skin, causing itchy bites and discomfort. Luckily, there are several ways you can keep midges away and protect your skin.
1. Use Insect Repellent: One of the most effective ways to keep midges away is to use insect repellent. Look for a product that contains DEET or Picaridin, as these ingredients are known to repel midges and other biting insects.
2. Wear Light-Colored Clothing: Midges are attracted to dark colors, so wearing light-colored clothing can help deter them. Opt for long sleeves and pants to further protect your skin from bites.
3. Avoid Peak Midge Times: Midges are most active at dawn and dusk, so try to avoid being outdoors during these times if possible. If you must be outside, consider wearing protective clothing and using insect repellent to keep midges at bay.
Understanding Midge Behavior
Midges are small flying insects that are attracted to moisture and carbon dioxide, which is why they are often found near water sources and areas where people are exhaling. They are most active during the early morning and evening hours when the weather is warm and calm.
Midges are known for their swarming behavior, as they gather in large groups to mate and search for food. They are attracted to light, so keeping outdoor lights to a minimum can help reduce their presence. Additionally, midges are weak fliers and tend to stay close to the ground, making them more likely to come into contact with your skin.
Understanding midge behavior can help you take proactive measures to keep them away from your skin. By minimizing moisture and carbon dioxide, reducing outdoor lighting, and staying indoors during peak activity times, you can reduce your chances of attracting midges and experiencing their annoying bites.
Choosing the Right Clothing
When it comes to keeping midges away from your skin, choosing the right clothing can make a big difference. Here are some tips to help you pick the best attire:
1. Wear Light-Colored Clothing
- Midges are attracted to dark colors, so opt for light-colored clothing to help deter them.
2. Choose Loose-Fitting Clothes
- Loose-fitting clothing makes it harder for midges to reach your skin, reducing the chances of bites.
Using Insect Repellent
When spending time outdoors, especially in areas with high midge populations, it’s important to protect your skin from bites. One of the most effective ways to do this is by using insect repellent. Look for products that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, as these ingredients are known to repel midges and other biting insects.
Apply the insect repellent evenly to exposed skin, making sure to cover all areas where midges may land. Reapply as directed on the product packaging, especially if you are sweating or swimming. Remember to avoid applying repellent to cuts, wounds, or irritated skin, and wash it off thoroughly once you come indoors.
Using insect repellent is a simple yet effective way to keep midges away from your skin and enjoy your time outdoors without having to worry about painful bites and itching. Make sure to always carry a bottle of repellent with you when venturing into midge-infested areas.
Applying Sunscreen and Repellent Together
When spending time outdoors in areas where midges are prevalent, it’s important to protect your skin from both sun damage and insect bites. One way to streamline your routine is by applying sunscreen and insect repellent together.
Choose a Combination Product
Look for sunscreen products that also contain insect repellent ingredients. These combination products can provide protection from both UV rays and pesky midges in one application, saving you time and effort.
Apply Properly
Be sure to follow the instructions on the product label for proper application. Apply the sunscreen and repellent evenly to exposed skin, making sure to cover all areas. Reapply as directed, especially after swimming or sweating.
Utilizing Natural Remedies
When it comes to keeping midges away from your skin, natural remedies can be an effective solution. Here are some natural remedies you can try:
1. Essential Oils
Essential oils such as citronella, eucalyptus, and lavender have been known to repel midges. You can create your own insect repellent spray by mixing a few drops of these essential oils with water and witch hazel.
2. Neem Oil
Neem oil is another natural remedy that can help keep midges at bay. Apply a small amount of neem oil to your skin or clothing to deter these pesky insects.
Covering Exposed Skin Areas
When spending time outdoors in areas where midges are present, it is essential to cover exposed skin areas to prevent bites. Make sure to wear long sleeves, long pants, and socks to minimize the amount of skin that is exposed. Additionally, consider wearing a hat and a scarf to protect your head and neck from midges.
Avoiding Peak Midge Activity Times
If you want to keep midges away from your skin, it’s important to avoid being outside during their peak activity times. Midges are most active during dawn and dusk, so try to schedule your outdoor activities for other times of the day.
Additionally, midges are attracted to moisture and heat, so avoid being near bodies of water or areas with high humidity when midges are most active. Midges are also more prevalent in the early summer months, so take extra precautions during this time.
By being aware of when midges are most active and taking steps to avoid these peak times, you can greatly reduce your chances of being bothered by these pesky insects.
Creating a Midge-Free Environment
1. Remove standing water from your property, as midges breed in stagnant water.
2. Keep your lawn and garden well-maintained to reduce midge hiding spots.
3. Install screens on windows and doors to prevent midges from entering your home.
4. Use outdoor lighting that doesn’t attract midges, such as yellow or LED lights.
5. Consider planting insect-repelling plants like lavender, citronella, or marigolds near outdoor gathering areas.
6. Use fans to create a breeze, which can help keep midges away from your immediate vicinity.
7. Avoid wearing dark colors and strong scents, as these can attract midges.
Removing Standing Water Sources
Standing water is a breeding ground for midges, so it’s important to eliminate any sources of stagnant water near your skin. Here are some tips:
Check for Puddles
Inspect your yard regularly for any puddles of water that may have accumulated after rain. Fill in any low spots in your yard to prevent water from pooling.
Empty Containers
Empty any containers that may collect water, such as flower pots, bird baths, or buckets. Make sure to turn over or cover these items when not in use.
Keeping Outdoor Lights Off at Night
One effective way to avoid attracting midges to your skin is to keep outdoor lights off at night. Midges are drawn to bright lights, so by turning off any lights outside your home in the evening, you can significantly reduce the chances of being bothered by these pesky insects.
Use Alternative Lighting
If you need to have some light outside at night for safety or security reasons, consider using alternative forms of lighting that are less attractive to midges. For example, you could use motion-activated lights or low-wattage bulbs that emit less light and heat.
By making a few simple changes to your outdoor lighting habits, you can help keep midges away from your skin and enjoy your time outdoors without constantly swatting away these annoying pests.
Seeking Shelter in Midge-Proof Areas
When trying to get away from these pesky insects, it’s important to find areas that are less likely to attract midges. Look for places with a strong breeze, as midges tend to avoid windy areas. Coastal areas or places with water bodies can also be good options, as midges are less active in these locations.
Additionally, consider seeking shelter indoors or in enclosed spaces such as a tent or a screened-in porch. These barriers can help keep midges at bay and provide a safe retreat from these annoying pests. Remember to keep doors and windows closed to prevent midges from sneaking in.
Consulting a Professional for Severe Infestations
If you are dealing with a severe midge infestation and home remedies are not effective, it may be time to consult a professional pest control service. These experts have the knowledge and experience to properly assess the situation and recommend the most effective treatment options.
Professional pest control services have access to commercial-grade products that are more potent and effective than over-the-counter remedies. They can also provide ongoing maintenance to ensure the midges stay away from your skin in the long term.
When choosing a pest control service, make sure to research their reputation, certifications, and experience in dealing with midge infestations. Additionally, ask for a detailed treatment plan and cost estimate before proceeding with any services.