Fleas are small, tough insects that survive on the blood of mammals. They thrive in warm weather and warm climates, making them a threat particularly during the summer. However, they can also be a big issue during winter, because that’s when they look to move indoors. So no matter what, you are likely to have to deal with fleas year round if you have an infestation. Naturally, you are interested in keeping yourself protected, and you may have heard that fleas cannot bite through clothes. The short answer is yes, they cannot bite through clothes, but let’s take a more detailed look.
Fleas and clothing
Most types of clothing will protect you from flea bites, except skin tight clothing with thin fabrics such as tights and stockings. Pretty much any type of thin fabric that hugs the skin will be penetrable by the fleas. On the flip side, if you like to wear clothes made from loose fabrics such as crocheted sweaters, you will still be vulnerable to fleas. What truly hinders these pests are clothes such as jeans, and they have a really hard time with sneakers. Still, never underestimate a determined flea. It will find its way through the seams and stitching of such clothing or gear.
Are clothes effective flea deterrents?
While clothes can protect you from getting bitten by fleas, they are not effective deterrents against these pests. Nevertheless, if you have no repellent products before your hike or camping trip, you can use clothing such as long pants and tuck them into your socks to protect yourself against bites. If a flea latches on to yours and stays latched on however, you will bring that flea back into your home or tent.
Keeping fleas off you effectively
In order to keep the fleas off of you completely, you will need to use some flea repellents. For this you have two options – permethrin and DEET products. These products can be applied either on the clothing or on the skin and they will ensure that fleas stay away from you completely. You also have natural options such as thyme oil, myrtle oil and other essential oils. Applied directly to the skin they can be quite effective, though not as effective as chemical products.
If you already have a flea infestation in your home, or if there is a large flea population on your property, contact us today and we will help you get it under control.
