What you should look for in bug-repellent clothing; How to treat any gear to repel insects, arachnids, and other critters; Where to buy the best bug-repellent clothing.

Permethrin is a synthetic chemical developed by the Environmental Protection Agency in 1979. It’s used as an insecticide that kills bugs on contact and as a repellent when applied to clothes.

To do so, simply hang your clothes outside and apply a specialized permethrin spray (available on Amazon) in a sweeping motion from 6 to 8 inches away, making sure to cover both sides of each garment.

When you spray permethrin on your clothes, a study published in May found, it incapacitates ticks quickly, rendering them unable to bite. It didn't take long for emails to come flooding in.

What • It's an insect repellent to spray on clothing and outdoor gear. The spray repels more than 100 kinds of insects, including mosquitoes, ticks, chiggers and biting flies.

Spray shoes with permethrin, an insecticide, once a month, says public health entomologist Thomas Mather, who goes by the nickname “The Tick Guy." May 8, 2025. 4 min. Summary (iStock) ...

When you spray permethrin on your clothes, a study published in May found, it incapacitates ticks quickly, rendering them unable to bite. It didn't take long for emails to come flooding in.

Cat lovers were very concerned about our story on permethrin. How risky is the pesticide for Kitty? By minimizing their pet's exposure, cat owners can use the chemical safely, veterinarians say.

Cat lovers were very concerned about our story on permethrin. How risky is the pesticide for Kitty? By minimizing their pet's exposure, cat owners can use the chemical safely, veterinarians say.