How to Do a Tick Check
When to Check
Perform a tick check after any time spent in wooded, brushy, or grassy areas — even brief outings in your own backyard. The sooner you find an attached tick, the better your protection. Make it a daily habit during peak tick season (April through October in most regions).
Step-by-Step Full-Body Check
Ticks prefer warm, moist, and hidden areas. Be especially thorough in these locations:
Shower First
Showering within 2 hours of coming inside washes off unattached ticks and makes it easier to do a complete check on clean skin.
Use a Mirror or Ask for Help
A full-length mirror helps you see your back and lower body. Have a partner check the back of your scalp, neck, and areas you cannot see easily.
Check All Hidden Areas
Work systematically: scalp and hairline, behind ears, back of neck, armpits, inside elbows, belly button, groin, between legs, behind knees, and between toes.
Check Clothing and Gear
Ticks can hide in seams, folds, and crevices. Tumble dry on high heat for 10 minutes to kill any remaining ticks before washing.
Checking Children
Children often need help, and are commonly bitten on the head and neck. Build tick checks into the post-outdoor routine — shower, check, done. Involve children in the process so they develop the habit as they grow. Make it non-scary by framing it as a quick safety check.
Checking Pets
Run your hands through your pet's coat after every outing. Focus on the head, around ears, under the collar, between toes, and in skin folds. Use veterinarian-recommended tick prevention products year-round.
Found a Tick?
If unattached — simply remove and dispose of it. If attached and feeding — see our Tick Removal guide for safe step-by-step removal.