Can No See Ums Bite Through Clothing?
No see ums, also known as sand flies, are tiny biting pests that are common in many parts of the world. While their bite is painful, the primary concern for many people is whether or not no see ums can bite through clothing.
Can No See Ums Bite Through Clothing?
The answer is yes and no. No see ums are small, with length ranging from 0.0625” to 0.2” in size, making them able to sneak through the tiniest of openings. Therefore, they can potentially bite through light, thin clothing such as t-shirts and tank tops. However, they cannot bite through most heavier fabrics such as jeans, leggings, or long sleeved shirts.
How To Protect Yourself From No See Ums
If you’re planning to be in an area where no see ums are present, here are some tips to help keep you bite-free:
- Wear long-sleeved clothing: Opt for long-sleeve shirts and pants and use socks and shoes rather than sandals to reduce the amount of exposed skin.
- Treat clothing with permethrin: This bug-repelling chemical can be purchased online and is a great way to make your clothing more bug-resistant.
- Use an insect repellent: Most insect repellents, such as DEET, will work against no see ums.
- Stay indoors during peak times: Avoid the outdoors during times when the no see ums are most active. This can vary depending on the species, so check with local experts for the best times to stay indoors.
No see ums can be a nuisance, especially when they manage to bite through clothing. However, with the right precautions, you can enjoy your time in the outdoors without having to worry about these pesky bugs.