Knockdown testing is a widely accepted scientific laboratory methodology for determining the efficacy of insect repellent-treated textile products.
Knockdown is a precise lab test that shows effectiveness through long-term washings.
A repellent-treated textile sample is placed in an enclosed space containing insects for a brief period, after which the sample is removed and the insects’ reaction is documented.
Many recognized agencies utilize KD testing for this purpose. These include:
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC)
• U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
• World Health Organization (WHO)
(1) Schreck, Haile & Kline, The effectiveness of Permethrin and DEET, Alone or in Combination, for Protection Against Aedes Taeniorhynchus, published in the American Journal of Tropical Medicine & Hygiene 33 (4): 725-30 (1984). Field study done using zero wash clothing. Schreck Final Report to USAMRDC 87 study showed knockdown at zero washes at 74%, 74%, 84% and 32% for four separate mosquito species averaging 66% (2) Insect Shield technology provides 91.7% knockdown through 70 washes, average for four mosquito species.