Monday 13 August 2007

Slippery when wet

My wee Lomonds sojourn was the first opportunity I'd had to try out the Deetfree Insect Repellant. It being a warm day with only a gentle breeze, there were plenty of flying critters around. Nothing seemed to be biting but I was getting a bit cheesed off with things buzzing round my head and just generally being annoying. So, at my traditional "juice stop", I whipped out the bottle and proceeded to apply it to my legs and lower arms.

First thing I noticed was the smell; "mentholy" probably best describes it. Not at all unpleasant if you like that kind of thing. Second thing I noticed was the sudden lack of buzzing. The wee buggers don't seem to like it and cleared off toot sweet. So, a result then.

While I was loafing about on top of West Lomond, I noticed that my hairy pins had developed a slightly distressing "wet look". I have to confess that I hadn't read the application instructions and, not wanting to get my hands covered in oil, I hadn't rubbed it in. However, there seemed to be a fair few dead things sticking to me so I assume it not only repels beasties but kills them as well. So far so good.

On returning to the car, I did my usual of sitting in the boot, letting my legs dangle and enjoying the breeze wafting round my feet. It wasn't until I climbed into the driver's seat that I noticed the dark stain on the seat covers. Worse, on arriving home, I walked round to the back of the car to get my stuff out of the boot and saw two large oily patches on the back bumper, corresponding to where I'd been dangling my legs. The patches were still there several days later so it's long-lasting too. (The Future Mrs Duncan kindly offered to wash my car but even her prodigious cleaning skills couldn't entirely shift it)

I'll need to remember to pack an old towel for wiping-off duties next time. Or, try rubbing it in and see if that makes a difference. I think it could be a problem using this stuff on overnighters because I really wouldn't want to get it on a sleeping bag, for example. I'll probably save it for day walks and use the Skin So Soft for anything longer because, as it's a Dry Oil, I've never had any bother with getting everything covered in it.

I'd still give it 8 out of 10 tho' and say it's worth trying if, like me, you're not entirely happy using something on your skin that can melt plastic.

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