The New York Times - Have a bug-free time outside

Yesterday we tackled indoor bugs. Today we’re crawling into the (unfortunately) wide world of outdoor ones.

Nothing kills summer serenity quicker than a buzz near your ear or a surprise graze on your leg, signaling that an unwanted visitor has come to disrupt your peace.

Here are some options we’ve tested to keep various critters at bay—whether you’re enjoying dinner on the deck or trekking through a trail.

• Citronella candles don’t really work. We know the idea of a “natural” mosquito repellent is enticing. But there’s no indication that citronella candles provide more protection than any other candle. Sorry!
• Essential oils don’t work either. After digging into the research and talking to two mosquito experts, we put essential-oil repellents firmly in the “do not buy” category.

Mosquitoes pose a much bigger threat than just being incredibly annoying. A single bite can transmit diseases, so effective repellents are a must-have.

• Stock up on bug repellent spray. We recommend getting a picaridin formula for your skin. This is safe and effective—and it won’t stink or leave a puddle of oil on your body.
• Invest in a spatial repellent. If you want to keep mosquitoes away without slathering your skin, get a spatial repellent, which odorlessly disperses repellent in the air to create a bug-free bubble. 
• Keep mosquitoes from multiplying. Some simple strategies, like ensuring you have no standing water, will discourage mosquitoes from breeding near your home. 

Bug repellents galore→

Tick prevention is far better than any tick-illness treatment. Here’s what to keep in mind as you head outdoors this summer.

• Help prevent tick bites by wearing permethrin-treated clothing and picaridin-based bug spray on your skin.
• Do a tick check after you’ve been outside. 
• Remove an embedded tick as soon as possible. If the worst should happen: Experts recommend fine-tipped tweezers as the tool of choice.

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Everything you need to know re: ticks→

Removing a wasp’s or hornet’s nest requires courage, precision, and speed—and a product that can do its job while keeping you as safe as possible. For that, you’ll need a can (or two, just to be sure) of a pyrethroid insecticide.

• A great place to start? Terro Wasp & Hornet Killer. It will shoot a thick and robust foaming spray to quickly encapsulate a nest, trapping insects inside and reducing the chances of your getting stung.

You’ve got this. We hope you’ve enjoyed your buggy weekend. 

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