Billions are spent yearly for products to eliminate fleas, mosquitoes, and
chiggers. Natural products (citronella and some plants) are not as effective
but do take the edge off the problem. Chemical products targeted at the various
summer itch-makers work better.
There are hundreds of products on the market to combat fleas. Some of the
products are designed to prevent and some to treat. Some are for animals, some
for homes (carpets and such), and some for humans. The best bet when dealing
with fleas is to speak with a veterinarian and to map out a comprehensive
attack plan. Fleas have a complex life cycle and multiply rapidly. It’s not
enough to kill off the living fleas. Prevention must include a plan to both
eliminate the living fleas and the eggs which are invariably part of the
cycling problem.
DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide) is the best defense against mosquitoes and
is the active ingredient in most sprays and lotions marketed for mosquito
protection. DEET does not kill mosquitoes; it simply backs them off.
While DEET does keep chiggers at bay, it does not block for very long.
Expect about 2 to 3 hours of protection if using DEET in a chigger infested
area. The best defense against chiggers is sulfur. Powdered sulfur is available
at most pharmacies. Sprinkled around the ankles and wrists and on clothing,
this usually does the trick. The downside is that sulfur gives off a bad odor.
Do note that products intended to kill insects (or mites) are not intended
to be sprayed on the body. Products approved for use on the skin are ones
designed to repel. Do not splash bug killer on your skin.