Chiggers can be prevented by treating uniforms with what substance?

Chiggers, which are the larval form of certain mites, can cause significant skin irritation and discomfort through their bites. To effectively prevent chigger bites while in environments where they are prevalent, treating uniforms with permethrin is recommended.

Permethrin is a synthetic insect repellent designed for use on clothing and gear. It works by binding to the fabric, offering long-lasting protection against a variety of pests, including chiggers, ticks, and mosquitoes. When uniforms are treated with permethrin, the contact with these insects is effective at repelling or killing them before they can bite.

Using other options like DEET or typical insect repellents is typically more focused on skin application rather than clothing treatment, which may not provide the same level of effective barrier against chiggers. Boric acid is generally used for controlling household pests and is not suitable for use on clothing or for preventing bites in outdoor settings. Hence, permethrin stands out as the best option for treating uniforms to prevent chigger infestations.