Inflatable Kayak Blog

The warmer Spring weather has us all eager to get out into the water and do some paddling. As we look ahead to the outdoor fun, we also can look forward to “bugs”. Some of us are more attractive to the little creatures than others, and nobody is totally immune to the buzzing of bees, flies and mosquitoes. One suggestion for keeping the ‘buzz’ away is “Bounce” fabric softener sheets, the one’s normally used in the clothes dryer.

I’m not sure how well they work to keep flies away, but “Bounce” sheets are an excellent bee repellant. This is especially helpful for those who have allergic reactions to bee stings. Actually, the US Postal service recommended that all of their letter carriers place a sheet of Bounce somewhere in the pockets of their uniforms to keep yellow jackets away.

Probably the most appealing use for “Bounce” as an insect repellant is that it’s said to repel mosquitoes. Mosquitoes have got to be one of the most irritating little insects around and since they are born and raised in water environments, paddlers encounter them a lot. Simply tie a sheet of “Bounce” through a belt loop. That should keep the bloodsuckers from making a meal of you.

Of course, “Bounce” can also be used as it was originally designed, to add freshness to material. You can keep your gear fresh by putting a sheet in your sleeping bag and tent before folding and storing them. A friend of ours uses one every time he puts away his 3 Second Tent.