Was just spraying weed killer (old DU recipe,

[elleng]

1 gallon vinegar, cup of salt, teaspoon of dish detergent,) sprayed myself with OFF, but still a bunch of bites.

Could get Avon's Deet-Free Bug Guard Plus, 'Expedition,' 'long-lasting,' or Bug Guard Plus Picaridin, 'strong & dependable,' or anything else. I won't be going out for long periods of time.

Suggestions?

Thx

[hlthe2b]

1. West Nile is starting now, so I take this seriously.. but

I've always hated the greasy chemical feel of DEET, no matter how effective.

So, for several years I tried every damned natural alternative. None worked more than about a half hour--at best. AND a dear friend end up with encephalitis due to WNV and is still experiencing symptoms years later. Permethrin-impregnanted clothing does work, but who wants to wear long sleeves in the summer, unless out camping?

So, yes, back to DEET. BUT, I do like the lower concentration Cutter product, SKINSATION with aloe and vitamin E. It is not greasy and actually smells good. I'm up at dawn and out after dusk with my dog, so the risk is there.

[elleng]

2. YES, Cutter's! Thanks!

Forgot about that! And clearly, you need it more than I do, tho I do try to walk a bit (NOT on 90+ degree days!) and go out the door to catch sunsets, and sometimes late at night for pics of the moon.

[brer cat]

6. I am using Cutter Natural (Deet-free)

and it is working well for me. Good luck finding something, elleng.

[elleng]

8. Thanks, brer.

[Arkansas Granny]

5. To get rid of the greasy feel of most repellents, I spray it

onto a diaper wipe and then apply it to the parts I need to protect. Even coverage and no greasy feel. It's a great way to treat kids, too.

[elleng]

7. Great idea, Granny!

and grandbaby coming in July, so will tell daughter about this.

[kentauros]

3. Catnip Oil

Here's a site to make your own, and another site giving some of the research performed on its repellent properties.

[elleng]

4. Thanks