What should you spray on clothing to repel ticks? - briefly
Apply a permethrin‑based insecticide to all outer garments, allowing it to dry completely before wear. The treatment remains effective through several washes and provides reliable tick repellency.
What should you spray on clothing to repel ticks? - in detail
Permethrin‑treated garments provide the most reliable protection against ticks. The chemical is applied to fabric in a concentration of 0.5 % (w/w) and binds to fibers, killing or disabling ticks that contact the material. Commercial products such as Sawyer Permethrin Clothing Insect Repellent or Repel Permethrin Spray are formulated for direct application to outdoor apparel, shoes, and gear. After spraying, allow the clothing to dry completely before wearing; the treatment remains effective through several wash cycles—typically up to six washes—depending on the manufacturer’s specifications.
When permethrin is unsuitable, ethanol‑based sprays containing DEET (20–30 % concentration) or picaridin (20 %) can be applied to clothing. These formulations repel ticks without penetrating the fabric, requiring re‑application after each wash. Apply the spray evenly, covering all exposed surfaces, and let the material dry before use. DEET and picaridin do not provide the same residual kill effect as permethrin, so they must be reapplied more frequently.
Essential‑oil blends—e.g., citronella, lemongrass, or eucalyptus—are occasionally marketed for tick deterrence, but laboratory and field studies show limited efficacy. If used, they should be combined with a carrier solvent and applied to the outer layer of clothing, recognizing that protection wanes within a few hours and may not meet public‑health standards.
Safety considerations include:
- Avoid direct skin contact with concentrated permethrin; treat only the fabric.
- Do not apply sprays to children’s sleepwear or undergarments.
- Use gloves and work in a well‑ventilated area during application.
- Store products out of reach of children and pets.
For optimal results, treat all outer garments—pants, shirts, socks, hats, and shoes—before entering tick‑infested habitats. Re‑treat after the recommended number of washes or when the protective effect diminishes, as indicated by the product label. Combining treated clothing with a skin‑applied repellent (DEET, picaridin, or IR3535) offers layered protection for exposed skin areas.