There’s a thought process to be followed before giving in to the mixing and spraying spree; it should start with learning about the chemicals as well as the insects; about the effect and the affected. Chances are that you’ll prefer inviting a predator for lunch in your garden, but there are times when chemical pest control measures remain the last resort. So it’s nice to know about how to use insect repellents safely; more so, if your budget doesn’t match the quotes.

Firstly, one must learn the purpose behind using the chemical insect repellants. Insect repellents are to discourage insects, not to kill them unless they become a real trouble. But if you are bugged by lice (either on yourself or on your pet), there remains no other choice than to kill them completely. The preventive measures come later. However, one must not use the EPA registered insect repellents for this purpose; there are separate products available for that. However, be careful about reading the label; pest repellents must not be used for anything else apart from what they are intended for. In fact, how and why must insect repellents be used remain stated clearly on the label. The label forms the Law!

The label; however, may not state to keep a chemical pest repellent out of reach of children (because it’s understood) and shall mention if any additives are to be used in the final preparation as well as the respective precautionary measures. If nothing such remains mentioned, mixing your own formula may not be a very good idea. Doing so may hamper the health of the ones within the range of the pest repellants, especially the old, the children and pregnant/lactating women.

It’s the active ingredients in insect repellents that bring on the desired effects and sometimes, even the undesired ones. This is because the active ingredients are meant for killing, repelling or attracting a pest. That makes them lethal, but not in appropriate doses. Thus, you should be careful about the amount that you use. Since you shall be the one closest within the reach of the insect repellents, you must take proper precautionary measures to avoid inhaling the pest repellent or stop it from reaching your hair, eyes and skin.

With instructions followed properly, learning how to use insect repellents safely won’t take more than a jiffy.