I’ve Tried Tons of Mosquito Repellents, and This $20 Gem Is My Outdoor Superhero

In Louisiana, mosquitoes are seemingly a never-ending problem, so you can guarantee that I keep an arsenal of repellents at home all year long. From bug-repelling throw blankets and patio string lights to the usual bug sprays and citronella candles, you can bet I’ve tried a ton. One that I’ve been using recently is the Thermacell Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller, and it’s on sale now, bringing the price down from $29.99 to $19.93. Compact and odorless, it’s my go-to when I want to spend time outside without dealing with pests.

Thermacell has a variety of mosquito-repellent devices, including fuel-powered finds. What I like about this small and rechargeable mosquito repeller is that it creates a “protection zone” of 20 feet and moving it around (if needed) isn’t a hassle. I have one with a 5.5-hour battery life, but the brand offers devices that run for up to 9 hours on a full charge. The included repellent cartridge lasts for 12 hours, but Thermacell offers 40-hour cartridges and bulk packs, ensuring hours upon hours of mosquito-free time outdoors.

The first time I used my Thermacell repeller, I couldn’t believe the difference it made in keeping the mosquitoes away, and I’ve stuck with it ever since. Like other reviewers have said, refilling the devices can get a little pricey, which is why I highly recommend grabbing the 120-hour or 240-hour bundles, both of which are on sale now. They come with multiple 40-hour refills. Other than that, this device is seriously my outdoor superhero.

Average Rating: 4/5

“Every time I go on the back patio within minutes, I get eaten alive by these mosquitoes! I hate spraying repellent on my skin! I’ve tried everything. Finally, I came across this. Works incredible! I keep it on the back patio table. I turn it on before I go outside for a good 15 minutes. No more mosquito bites. Extremely easy to use! Great value. Refills can get costly, but it’s worth it.” —Stacey

“This is a great product. I use it in my big backyard when I play ball with my dogs. Really helped us this summer when it was too hot to go for walks.” —Greta

“This thing rules. I’ve tried so many repellent methods; citronella plants and candles, tiki torches, zappers, sprays, even tried those bug bands and essential oils. This thing WORKS with no annoying noise or smells. I use it every evening when I enjoy my porch, and the charge and refill both hold up for several hours at a time. Don’t run out of refills, though! You’ll be sad and itchy if you do.” —Ashton Guerrero

Buy: Thermacell Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller, $19.93 (normally $29.99)