Complete Guide to Bee Sting Proof Clothing and Prevention Tips

The Importance of Bee Sting Proof Clothing

Bees play an essential role in pollinating plants and crops that we depend on for food. However, their sting can be quite painful and for some, even life-threatening. That’s why having the proper bee sting proof clothing is so important, especially for those who work outdoors near bee colonies.

The Dangers of Bee Stings

For most people, a bee sting causes a temporary painful welt on the skin accompanied by swelling, redness and itching. This is a normal reaction due to the venom released by the bee. In sensitive individuals, however, bee stings can trigger potentially fatal allergic reactions known as anaphylaxis.

According to the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, insect stings cause more deaths worldwide than bites from snakes, spiders or scorpions. Those at highest risk are people who have previously experienced anaphylaxis to an insect sting.

Anaphylactic shock requires immediate medical attention and can lead to dangerous symptoms including constriction of the airways, plummeting blood pressure, loss of consciousness and even death. People who are allergic should carry epinephrine auto-injectors such as EpiPens at all times.

Why Bees Sting

Honey bees have barbed stingers that pierce the skin and remain stuck there along with the venom sac. When a bee stings a human, their stinger and venom sac are ripped from their body, which is what kills the bee. Understanding the reasons bees sting can help people avoid these painful encounters:

• To defend their hive from perceived threats such as vibrations, loud noises or movement
• If they get caught in clothing and feel trapped
• General alarm and provocation such as accidentally swatting a bee
• To protect food sources and feeding grounds

Africanized "killer" bees are more aggressive than European bees and excessively prone to swarming and stinging in defense. They can chase victims up to a quarter mile away from their hives. Knowledge of bee behaviors goes a long way in preventing stings.

Jobs at High Risk for Bee Stings

Some professions have a much higher chance of encountering bees and potentially being stung. These include:

• Beekeepers
• Landscapers & gardeners
• Farmers
• Construction workers
• Forestry workers
• Pool cleaners
• Painters
• Roofers
• Road construction crews
• Land surveyors
• Utility workers

People in these occupations would greatly benefit from proper bee sting proof clothing when outdoors. Let's look at some of the options.

Bee Sting Proof Clothing and Gear

Specialty clothing and protective equipment exists to guard against bee stings. The right choice depends on the level of exposure and how aggressive the bees are in a given environment.

Sting-Proof Suits & Jackets

For maximum protection, a full-body bee suit is ideal. These suits cover the entire body from head to ankles, usually including gloves and a helmet/veil. Most are made of lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton.

Sting proof jackets offer protection for the upper body only. They typically have elastic or velcro wrist seals and a zippered veil. These are a wise choice for jobs like gardening, farming or surveying where the legs are less exposed.

Sting-Proof Hoods & Hats

Some people prefer to wear a bee proof hat or hood along with regular clothing. The veil protects the face while the head covering shields the neck and part of the shoulders.

Sting proof hoods pull over the head and may be worn under a hard hat for construction or other heavy work. Hat veils are more common for gardeners and farm workers. Keep in mind that the rest of the body is still vulnerable.

Sting-Proof Gloves

Hands are very prone to stings when dealing with bees, so quality sting proof gloves are a smart choice. Leather bee gloves allow dexterity while preventing stings. Rubber-dipped gloves offer even more protection but less flexibility.

Gauntlet style gloves seal at the wrist and can be worn under a bee jacket. Simple gardening gloves likely won't be thick enough to stop stings.

Sealed Pants & Overalls

Regular pants typically won't prevent bee stings since fabric is thin and pant legs are often loose around the ankle. Special bee proof pants have zipper or velcro seals at the ankles, keeping bees from crawling up under pant legs.

Similarly, coveralls or overalls made of tightly woven fabric can protect the legs and body. Look for sting proof styles with extra sealing around the wrists, ankles, collar and zipper.

Tightly Woven Long Sleeve Shirts

Shirts and turtlenecks made of tightly woven fabrics like cotton flannel can add protection from stings on the arms and neck. Avoid loose and flowy clothing that bees can easily become trapped in.

Tucking shirts into pants helps prevent bees from crawling underneath. Wearing multiple layers also improves effectiveness if bees do happen to sting through the first shirt.

Sealed Boots or Pants Over Boots

Bees frequently sting ankles, so wearing high rubber boots with sealed pants tucked into them protects the lower legs. Another option is to purchase bee proof boots or waders that seal completely at the top.

Leather boots are not optimal since bees can sting through the seams. Rubber boots with thick soles work best against stings.

Bee Smokers

Beekeepers often use smokers — small fuel-burning devices that generate smoke. Blowing smoke gently at hives and nearby bees can have a calming effect, preventing aggressive defensive behavior. Smoke also triggers a feeding instinct in the bees.

For non-beekeepers, carrying a small smoker while gardening or doing yardwork can provide temporary protection from stings.

Tips for Avoiding Stings

In addition to wearing bee sting proof clothing, some simple tips can help prevent painful encounters with bees:

• Avoid wearing perfumes, scented lotions or brightly colored clothing outdoors
• Wear light-colored clothing since dark colors attract more bees
• Cover food and drinks outdoors and keep trash cans sealed
• Remain calm and quiet if bees start to swarm — don't panic and swat at them
• If a bee lands on you, gently brush it away or blow on it gently
• Keep flower beds weeded and prune back plants so bees can't hide
• Fill holes and cover bare ground where bees like to nest
• Avoid going barefoot outdoors

Being aware of signs of hive activity can also help you steer clear. Listen for loud buzzing and look for increased bee traffic flying in and out of areas.

Treating Bee Stings

If stung, immediate first aid can help minimize pain and complications:

• Use tweezers to remove the stinger/venom sac if still present
• Wash the area with soap and water to clean
• Apply a cold pack to reduce swelling
• Take an antihistamine containing diphenhydramine to relieve itching
• Use a hydrocortisone cream on swollen areas
• For multiple stings or extreme swelling/allergic reaction, seek emergency medical attention

While bee stings are inevitable, wearing proper bee sting proof clothing and being cautious around hives and nests can reduce the chances. Stay safe outdoors during bee season!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.