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17
Jul
Midges are tiny, yet pesky insects that attack people in summer months all around the world. They're hard to miss, especially when their bites cause itchy red bumps and sometimes even painful swelling.
If you're an avid camper or bushcrafter who spends a lot of time outdoors, chances are you've experienced these unwelcome visitors. Don't worry, though; there are a few ways to get rid of midge bites fast!
How to prevent midge bites
First, it's important to understand what attracts midges and how to avoid getting bitten in the first place. Midge bites are caused by female midges looking for a protein-rich meal of fresh blood in order to mature their eggs. These tiny creatures usually swarm in large masses and are attracted to sweat, body heat and carbon dioxide. So, if you are a camper who loves to spend time outdoors, you should be careful to avoid standing in large open areas or standing near stagnant water or damp vegetation.
Midges can be a real nuisance for those who love outdoor activities like camping and bushcraft. Though they're small in size, they can ruin an otherwise great experience. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid getting bitten by midges.
Here are some tips you can follow:
1. Wear loose, light-coloured clothing. Midges are attracted to dark clothing, so wearing light colours can help reduce the chances of them landing on you. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. This will also help keep you cool on hot summer days.
2. Avoid sweet-smelling fragrances. Midges are drawn to sweet scents. Therefore, avoid wearing cologne, perfumes, and aftershave when you're outdoors. The same goes for strong-smelling deodorants and body sprays.
3. Don't stand still, even when the wind isn't blowing. Midges can be very persistent, so it's best to keep moving rather than standing still in one spot. This can help prevent them from landing on you and biting you.
4. Use bug nets. If the midges are getting really bad and nothing else helps, try investing in a bug net that you can wear around your head or shoulders. This will help protect you from any pesky midges and keep you from getting bitten.
How to deal with midge bites
If you are looking for ways to get rid of midge bites fast, the best course of action is to employ some traditional methods. One of the most common methods is to apply ice to the bitten area. This will help to reduce the swelling, itching and redness associated with midge bites. If possible, try putting the affected area in cold water, too, as this will help to relieve some of the irritation. You should also apply a mild anti-itch cream or calamine lotion to further reduce the itching.
If the bites become infected, however, it's important to seek medical attention; otherwise, a more serious infection could develop.
Another treatment option is to use an antihistamine. Antihistamines work to reduce the body's allergic reaction to the bite, which can help to reduce the itching and swelling. A steroid cream can also be used, although it should be used sparingly, as prolonged use can cause skin thinning.
Finally, try applying a mixture of baking soda and water to reduce the itching and swelling of the bites. To make the paste, mix two tablespoons of baking soda with one tablespoon of water until a creamy paste is formed, and then apply it directly to the affected areas. This should help to relieve some of the irritation and discomfort caused by the midge bites.
No matter which treatment you choose, it's important to remember to take preventive measures. As mentioned earlier, wearing light colours and avoiding black or blue clothing will reduce the risk of midge bites. Also, try to stay in covered areas or near running water when possible. This will help to both reduce your exposure to midges and will also allow you to enjoy your outdoor activities without interruption.
Insect repellant and bite care at Bath Bushcraft Shop
At Bath Bushcraft, we stock a wide range of insect-repellant tools and aftercare treatments for bites. If you’re putting together a first aid kit or stocking up before a trip, here are our top picks!
Sawyer Complete Bite & Sting Kit
This complete kit offers relief from mosquito, insect and even snake bites. The extractor pump was designed specifically to provide the most powerful suction available to safely remove venom and poisons.
Wilma Beck Olja Insect Repellent
Wilma's natural products are made in the forest region of Swedish Lapland utilising the old knowledge and techniques that have been used for centuries by the forest people who have lived and worked there. With a strong pine tar smell this product gives a real feeling of a northern Scandinavian forest.
Smidge Wipes are a handy way to apply this outdoor-essential product, particularly offering young children (from 6 months) gentle, yet effective protection against biting insects around the world. These powerful wipes offer water- and sweat-resistant protection for up to 8 hours in a handy pack of family-friendly wipes
For more essential outdoor first aid and insect repellant products, take a look at our full medical range for leading brands and great value online prices.
Midges are tiny, yet pesky insects that attack people in summer months all around the world. They're hard to miss, especially when their bites cause itchy red bumps and sometimes even painful swelling.
If you're an avid camper or bushcrafter who spends a lot of time outdoors, chances are you've experienced these unwelcome visitors. Don't worry, though; there are a few ways to get rid of midge bites fast!
How to prevent midge bites
First, it's important to understand what attracts midges and how to avoid getting bitten in the first place. Midge bites are caused by female midges looking for a protein-rich meal of fresh blood in order to mature their eggs. These tiny creatures usually swarm in large masses and are attracted to sweat, body heat and carbon dioxide. So, if you are a camper who loves to spend time outdoors, you should be careful to avoid standing in large open areas or standing near stagnant water or damp vegetation.
Midges can be a real nuisance for those who love outdoor activities like camping and bushcraft. Though they're small in size, they can ruin an otherwise great experience. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid getting bitten by midges.
Here are some tips you can follow:
1. Wear loose, light-coloured clothing. Midges are attracted to dark clothing, so wearing light colours can help reduce the chances of them landing on you. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. This will also help keep you cool on hot summer days.
2. Avoid sweet-smelling fragrances. Midges are drawn to sweet scents. Therefore, avoid wearing cologne, perfumes, and aftershave when you're outdoors. The same goes for strong-smelling deodorants and body sprays.
3. Don't stand still, even when the wind isn't blowing. Midges can be very persistent, so it's best to keep moving rather than standing still in one spot. This can help prevent them from landing on you and biting you.
4. Use bug nets. If the midges are getting really bad and nothing else helps, try investing in a bug net that you can wear around your head or shoulders. This will help protect you from any pesky midges and keep you from getting bitten.
How to deal with midge bites
If you are looking for ways to get rid of midge bites fast, the best course of action is to employ some traditional methods. One of the most common methods is to apply ice to the bitten area. This will help to reduce the swelling, itching and redness associated with midge bites. If possible, try putting the affected area in cold water, too, as this will help to relieve some of the irritation. You should also apply a mild anti-itch cream or calamine lotion to further reduce the itching.
If the bites become infected, however, it's important to seek medical attention; otherwise, a more serious infection could develop.
Another treatment option is to use an antihistamine. Antihistamines work to reduce the body's allergic reaction to the bite, which can help to reduce the itching and swelling. A steroid cream can also be used, although it should be used sparingly, as prolonged use can cause skin thinning.
Finally, try applying a mixture of baking soda and water to reduce the itching and swelling of the bites. To make the paste, mix two tablespoons of baking soda with one tablespoon of water until a creamy paste is formed, and then apply it directly to the affected areas. This should help to relieve some of the irritation and discomfort caused by the midge bites.
No matter which treatment you choose, it's important to remember to take preventive measures. As mentioned earlier, wearing light colours and avoiding black or blue clothing will reduce the risk of midge bites. Also, try to stay in covered areas or near running water when possible. This will help to both reduce your exposure to midges and will also allow you to enjoy your outdoor activities without interruption.
Insect repellant and bite care at Bath Bushcraft Shop
At Bath Bushcraft, we stock a wide range of insect-repellant tools and aftercare treatments for bites. If you’re putting together a first aid kit or stocking up before a trip, here are our top picks!
Sawyer Complete Bite & Sting Kit
This complete kit offers relief from mosquito, insect and even snake bites. The extractor pump was designed specifically to provide the most powerful suction available to safely remove venom and poisons.
Wilma Beck Olja Insect Repellent
Wilma's natural products are made in the forest region of Swedish Lapland utilising the old knowledge and techniques that have been used for centuries by the forest people who have lived and worked there. With a strong pine tar smell this product gives a real feeling of a northern Scandinavian forest.
Smidge Wipes are a handy way to apply this outdoor-essential product, particularly offering young children (from 6 months) gentle, yet effective protection against biting insects around the world. These powerful wipes offer water- and sweat-resistant protection for up to 8 hours in a handy pack of family-friendly wipes
For more essential outdoor first aid and insect repellant products, take a look at our full medical range for leading brands and great value online prices.
Daniel Harwood
