Ticks might be tiny, but they can cause almighty problems. They are more than just an itchy nuisance, and if not prevented or tackled appropriately, they can spread serious illnesses like Lyme disease.
With tick season lasting for much of the year, between March and October, it's crucial to stay one step ahead at all times. The good news? With a few smart moves, you can keep these pests off your body, pets, and property.
Here are some effective tips for stopping ticks fast - and keeping them away.
Quick Answer: How to Stop Ticks Fast
- Stay on clear paths and avoid brushing long grass, bracken and dense vegetation.
- Dress defensively: long sleeves/trousers, tuck trousers into socks, and wear light colours so ticks are easier to spot.
- Use repellent label-led on exposed skin (and clothing where suitable), focusing on ankles, cuffs and sock line; reapply as directed.
- Do a tick check when you get home (and check children/pets), then remove any attached tick promptly with a proper tool or fine-tipped tweezers.
1. Know Where Ticks Hide
If you know where ticks like to hide, you are in a great position to reduce the risk of contact. Ticks love damp, shady environments like long grass, leaf litter, and woodland. They're especially common in the countryside, but can show up in urban settings too, especially in parks and gardens. We recommend that you avoid brushing up against vegetation when walking and stay on clear paths where possible.
2. Dress Defensively
Heading outdoors? Cover up by wearing long sleeves and trousers. Tuck trousers into socks and choose light-coloured clothing where possible so ticks are easier to spot due to the colour contrast. These simple steps create an effective barrier that can stop your skin from coming into direct contact with ticks.
3. Apply Tick Repellent
We recommend using a repellent containing DEET (at least 20%), Picaridin, or IR3535. Apply it to exposed skin and clothing, especially around ankles, cuffs, and shoes, which are the most common tick entry points.
Always follow the label for how much to apply and when to reapply (especially after sweating or getting wet). If you’re also using suncream, apply suncream first, then repellent.
4. Stick to Paths When on Walks
When walking through tick-prone areas, stay on established trails and avoid brushing against grass and foliage where possible. Ticks love to wait on tall grass to latch onto unsuspecting passing hosts - don't make it easy for them.
5. Check Yourself (and Others)
After spending time outdoors, check your whole body for ticks - especially behind knees, around the groin, under armpits, and along the hairline. We recommend using a mirror for the harder to see areas to make extra sure. Don't forget to check children and pets too.
6. Shower and Wash Clothing Immediately
You should take a shower as soon as you return home, as this can help remove ticks that haven't yet attached. You should also add your outdoor clothing to a hot wash or tumble dryer, as heat is effective at killing ticks. Heat is effective—if washing isn’t possible, a hot tumble-dry cycle can help deal with ticks on clothing.
7. Remove Ticks Safely
If you find a tick, use a tick removal tool or fine-tipped tweezers to remove it. Grab it close to the skin and pull back slowly and steadily. Avoid twisting, burning, or squeezing the tick as these actions increase the risk of infection.
8. Be Alert for Tick Symptoms
If you have spent time in tick-prone areas, regularly watch for signs of Lyme disease, such as a bullseye-shaped rash, flu-like symptoms, and joint pain. If you notice anything unusual after a tick bite, speak to a pharmacist or GP for advice.
9. Tidy Up Your Garden
Take regular care of your garden by cutting your grass short, trimming overgrown borders, and clearing away leaf litter. Remember, ticks love cool, damp environments, so don't forget those shady spots. A tidier garden means fewer places for them to thrive.
10. Block Wildlife Entry
Deer, rodents, and other wild animals can carry ticks into your garden. Install fencing or other barriers to help keep these tick-bearing visitors out.
Final Thoughts
Ticks aren't just a countryside problem - they're becoming more common across the UK, including in urban areas. But with the right prevention tactics, you can stop ticks before they become a major threat. From smarter clothing choices to proactive garden care, these tips can provide fast and effective protection.
We go to great lengths to ensure that all our pest control products are effective, fast & easy-to-use. You may also find our expert guide useful if you want to learn more about getting rid of ticks from you, your family and pets.
