Question 1

The similar item by o tom says to twist to remove. This says don't twist. What does science say?

Accepted Answer

Our recommendations are based on CDC guidelines, which specifically says "Don’t twist or jerk the tick; this can cause the mouth-parts to break off and remain in the skin". Our University laboratory has also determined that twisting the tick (or incorrectly squeezing the tick's blood-filled abdomen) can cause the tick to regurgitate into the wound, which can raise the risk of disease transmission.

We disagree with O'Tom's advertising material which recommends twisting, and believe that this is an unsafe method of tick removal. If these tick removers are used as shown in our instructions - by gently sliding the fork beneath the mouthparts and lifting the tick away without squeezing or twisting - they are safe and effective!

Here is the CDC citation: https://www.cdc.gov/ticks/removing_a_tick.html

Question 2

What's the difference between these and the spoons made by the same company? I'm wondering when I'd use one over the other.

Accepted Answer

This style of tick remover is smaller, and some people prefer them for use on pets with thick fur. Our tick spoons are convenient for travel as they can be kept on a keychain, and make it easier to save the tick in the spoon. Both styles are effective!

Question 3

Does this work on tiny nymph ticks? According to other sources pointed tweezers are only way to remove tiny nymph ticks

Accepted Answer

This pack includes three sizes of tick remover, with the smallest one meant for removing small nymphs or deer ticks! TickCheck also offers a Premium Tick Remover Kit with stainless steel ultra-fine-tipped tweezers, here: https://www.amazon.com/TickCheck-Premium-Tick-Remover-Identification/dp/B075DKL3Z6

Question 4

This says do not twist but the other ones like this say to twist?

Accepted Answer

Twisting the remover can often result in the tick's head breaking away from the body and remaining embedded. Our instructions are to lift the tick away from the skin without twisting, as this is the best way to remove the tick in it's entirety, with no debris left behind.

TickCheck Tick Remover Value 3-Pack

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Specifications

Common Questions