We all have our little techniques to keep bugs from ruining our outdoor event. Whether it's bug spray, candles or a good old-fashioned fly swatter, we all have something. But, one technique that might be a bit unsanitary is the bug zapper.

According to research done at Kansas State University and Microbiologist James Urban, bug zappers and food should keep a nice distance between each other. Why? Well, when that little bug gets zapped, it can spread bacteria up to six feet.

And, another interesting fact to come from the research is that a bug zapper can actually spread 1 of every 4,000 bacteria or viruses that were on the zapped bug.

So, what can you do to combat bugs? In a separate study done by Iowa State University, catnip oil may do the trick. That's right. The plant that makes your cat go nuts repels mosquitoes 10 times more effectively than a bug spray you get at the store. The study's author, Joel Coats, Ph.D. says catnip oil has not been tested for direct skin use. So, for safety, keep it off your skin and spray it around picnic tables, tents, bedding--spray it around you, just not on you.

What's your trick to keep bugs from ruining your picnic?

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