What to Do When Pests Strike

Chiggers

There may be nothing more disgusting in this world than chiggers. You can pick them up in the woods, and they will lay eggs in the folds of your skin, causing a poison ivy-like rash. If you think you’ve been exposed to chiggers, take a hot bath. The heat will cause the larvae to die, making your pain (and disgust!) short-lived.

Lice

Nothing strikes fear in the hearts of parents like the words “lice outbreak.” The harsh chemicals that are used to fight lice are almost as bad as the lice themselves. Luckily, there is a cheaper, more natural alternative. Cover your child’s head (or yours, if the little buggers have gotten you!) with a thick conditioner like Pantene Pro V. Put on a Disney movie to keep your kid busy, then get a wide-toothed metal comb. Dip the comb into rubbing alcohol and comb through the hair, staying close to the scalp. Between each swipe, wipe the comb on a white paper towel to make sure you’re getting the lice. Dip the comb in the alcohol again and keep going. Cover the hair with baking soda, and then repeat the process with the alcohol and the comb. Wash hair thoroughly when finished, and repeat this procedure each day for a week or until the lice are gone.

Skunks

If your pet has been sprayed by a skunk, don’t despair! You can get rid of the stink with tomato juice. Put your poor pet in the tub or sink and pour tomato juice over him, making sure to work through the fur before rinsing. You may want to wear rubber gloves to make sure you keep the stench off your own hands!

Scorpions

Stings (sometimes called “bites”) from certain scorpions can cause medical complications and even be fatal for small children, so if you think you’ve been stung by a scorpion you should seek medical help right away. Applying mustard to a scorpion sting right after it occurs can help remove the venom and ease the pain.

Ticks

Oh no, you’ve got a tick! If you’re having trouble prying the little bugger off, apply a large glob of petroleum jelly to the area. Wait about 20 minutes, and you should be able to wipe him off with ease.

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