Although chiggers are tiny, they can pack a powerful punch in the form of an itchy bite. If you’re unlucky enough to come into contact with these pests, there are a few things you can do to prevent their bites.
Contents
1. Avoid Areas Where Chiggers Are Likely To Congregate
One of the best ways to avoid getting bitten by chiggers is to avoid areas where they are likely to be found. Chiggers prefer moist, shady areas with thick vegetation. They are often found in humid forests, near swamps or marshes, and in tall grasses and weeds.
If you’re spending time outdoors in an area that is likely to be home to chiggers, take precautions to avoid contact with the ground.
Wear long pants and socks, and tuck your pants into your socks to create a barrier between your skin and the ground. If possible, wear light-colored clothing so that you can more easily spot any chiggers that may be on you.
2. Use Insect Repellent
Another way to prevent chigger bites is to use an insect repellent that contains DEET or another active ingredient. Apply the repellent to your skin and clothing, taking care to avoid contact with your eyes, mouth, and open wounds.
There are a number of commercial products available that can help keep chiggers away from you. You can also make your own repellent by mixing equal parts of water and vinegar.
Repellents can help keep chiggers from crawling on you, but they won’t kill them. If you do come into contact with chiggers, you’ll need to remove them from your skin as soon as possible.
3. Take a Shower or Bath After Spending Time Outdoors
If you’ve been in an area where chiggers are likely to be found, take a shower or bath as soon as possible. This will help remove any chiggers that may be on your skin. Be sure to wash your clothes in hot water as well, to kill any chiggers that may be lurking there.
4. Wash Clothes With Hot water
If you still worry chiggers may be in your clothes, you wash them in hot water to help kill any chiggers that may be lurking there.
Final Thought
Chigger bites can be incredibly itchy, but there are things you can do to prevent them. Avoid areas where chiggers are likely to be found, and use an insect repellent containing DEET or another active ingredient. If you do come into contact with chiggers, take a shower or bath as soon as possible, and wash your clothes in hot water.
Taking these precautions can help you avoid getting bitten by chiggers. If you do get bitten, the best thing to do is to wash the area with soap and water and apply a cool compress to help relieve the itching. If the itching is severe, you may want to consult a doctor or other medical professional.
Image source
