In my part of the country, Lyme Disease rates are astronomical.  West Nile Virus is on the rise, as well.  In other parts of the world, there’s malaria (and other insect-borne diseases we don’t tend to see here in the U.S.).  Besides that, insects and other bugs are just plain annoying when you’re trying to have fun or get work done outside.

Most commercial bug repellents are full of chemicals that are not very safe or healthy to apply to your skin.  Many natural alternatives aren’t very effective.  But InsectShield has come up with a creative solution.

The Solution?

They build the repellent directly into the clothing (or blanket, or whatever).  It’s less messy.  It’s less smelly.  And it’s less dangerous than traditional repellents.

How does it work?  Permethrin is bonded directly to the fabric.  Now, they point out that permethrin is considered safe – it’s even used in lice shampoos.  Personally, I don’t believe it’s healthy in those applications, however, I am far more comfortable with having it in my clothes than on my skin.  And yes, I realize that the clothing comes into contact with the skin, but it’s applied in such a way that it doesn’t just “rub off.”   In fact, its repellency is EPA-registered to last through 70 launderings – that’s not something that’s going to readily ” wear off”  onto the wearer’s skin.

The products are also proven and registered to repel mosquitoes, ticks, and flies and, depending on the product, ants, fleas, chiggers, and midges.

InsectShield carries a variety of basic apparel for men, women, and children, including t-shirts and other athletic wear as well as more corporate clothing like button-up shirts and slacks.  If none of those float your boat (or fit) they have accessories like hats, socks, and bandanas.   And they have some gear, like blankets and mosquito nets.

If none of those meet your needs, you can even send in your own clothing to be treated!  The cost is pretty reasonable, too, I think – $7.95-$9.95 per piece, depending on how many you’re sending in.

These would make great gifts for the field missionaries in your life, or for campers, hikers, triathletes, etc.  I don’t know that I’d be likely to buy the clothing for everyday use here in the States, but it could definitely be worth it to grab a hat or bandana for those kids who seem to be tick magnets.