Mosquitos can transmit malaria and other harmful diseases.
Mosquito nets should be an essential part of your fair-weather gear if you and your children engage in outdoor activities such as camping and hiking. An alternative to chemical sprays and electronic deterrents, netting serves as a physical barrier between you and various insects without harming your skin or the environment.
Types
There are two types of mosquito nets: personal and enclosures. Personal nets are intended to be worn like hats. They protect your face, neck and shoulders. Netted enclosures are accessories that form a protective canopy over tents and cabin beds. Nets are available in a variety of colors, but are normally cool colors such as dark green and brown.
Use
Purchase a wide-brimmed hat to wear with a personal net. This will prevent the net from falling into your child's eyes as she is playing. Always buy a color that is highly visible to prevent collisions. Select enclosures that have a reinforced loop-and-hook fastener or zippered door to allow easy entry. If using an insecticide-coated net, avoid adding other mosquito repellents, as the combined chemicals can produce noxious fumes.
Care
Most cotton and nylon nets are machine washable, making them easy to clean. If using a dryer, use a delicate setting and place nets inside of a lingerie bag or pillowcase to keep them from snagging on internal components. Repair ripped nets with a thread of the same material. Using heavier thread will form a joint that surpasses the strength of the surrounding fibers; the surrounding net will tear.
Precautions
Never purchase a net that impairs your kid's vision. Always ask your children if their eyes or head hurt during and after net use. This may be an indication of difficulty focusing the eyes and seeing past the net. Always check the tension of the net where it circles the neck. If the elastic band is too small for your child, remove it and lace a ribbon through the neck hole in its place.
Tags: your child, your children