LymeNet Flash: Can tent mesh/screen keep out ticks?

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»	LymeNet Flash » Questions and Discussion » Medical Questions » Can tent mesh/screen keep out ticks?

Author

Topic: Can tent mesh/screen keep out ticks?

LymeMECFSMCS
LymeNet Contributor
Member # 13573

posted

I am thinking of getting a self expanded screen tent -- basically a pop-up tent that is mostly screen mesh that you would find in any normal tent to make the "windows," and a solid tent floor. Does anyone know if tent screen/mesh in general is tight enough to keep out ticks?

I can't use DEET due to MCS, nor can I use smelly essential oils, but I use yarrow tincture and other natural measures to repel ticks. As we all know, though, one can never be too safe. I thought hanging out in the screen tent might be a way to enjoy the outdoors without tick fears.

Posts: 929 | From Massachusetts | Registered: Oct 2007 | IP: Logged |

Keebler
Honored Contributor (25K+ posts)
Member # 12673

posted

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I would not think a screen weave would be tight enough unless nearly like a sheer fabric and the air flow would be greatly diminished. The tighter the weave the better chance and a white screen fabric would be better than black for ability to identify intruders.

Mosquito netting might be the finest weave and you could search that out. I would also think they might get stuck in netting.

I would invest in vast amounts of VELCRO - just the soft side if you can buy "half" of it. Velcro might be like a fly trap to ticks.

I've not read about this but the rough face of a velcro strip is a bunch of loose "legs" that hook onto the soft face and stick. Ticks legs may also hook and get stuck into the softer part.

Anyone out there want to test this?

If you can't use essential oil on or very near you, you may still be able to use them as a perimeter guard - or specific plants that may repel, telling them to not even come close.
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Posts: 48021 | From Tree House | Registered: Jul 2007 | IP: Logged |

WildCondor
Unregistered

posted

The mesh on most tents is small enough that a tick cant fit through there. Just make sure you dont buy one from walmart etc. If you want a good tent go to www.campmor.com for camping tents, for the popups, not sure.

I spray the exterior of my tents with permethrin as well as a perimeter around the tent.

For tick prevention www.bugshirt.com

Tick clothes and socks www.rynoskin.com

IP: Logged |

massman
Unregistered

posted

The bugs on the east coast - New England mostly -
can be smaller than the rest of the country. Not ticks, mostly black flies.

Quite a number of years ago tent makers began to put finer screens in tents for the east coast (personal experience}.

You will probably need to go to a dealer that carries good tents like Eastern Mountain Sports - EMS - or Recreational Equipment Incorporated - REI - to find good quality tents.

IP: Logged |

billclo
LymeNet Contributor
Member # 12939

posted

You could use a pyrethrin-based product called Permanone by Repel that'll kill ticks on contact for up to 2 weeks. Reapply periodically and that should help greatly in keeping the ticks down.

Available here: http://www.drugstore.com/qxp153116_333181_sespider_1_1/repel/permanone_insect_repellent_clothing_and_gear_spray.htm

DO NOT apply to skin, only fabrics and let dry before using said fabrics.

Posts: 131 | From PA | Registered: Aug 2007 | IP: Logged |

Lymetoo
Moderator
Member # 743

posted

Sure wouldn't think so... You're WAY braver than me! I wouldn't be caught dead camping out! Gimme an RV at least!! [Big Grin]

--------------------
--Lymetutu--
Opinions, not medical advice!

Posts: 96239 | From Texas | Registered: Feb 2001 | IP: Logged |

sixgoofykids
Honored Contributor (10K+ posts)
Member # 11141

posted

Moved to general support

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sixgoofykids.blogspot.com

Posts: 13449 | From Ohio | Registered: Feb 2007 | IP: Logged |

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