12 Best Mosquito Repellents of 2024

Mosquito Repellent placed outdoor for entertaining — Photo:
Food & Wine / Pottery Barn

With warm summer nights, grilling season, and backyard bonfires in full swing, we can only think of one downside: the pests. Nothing can ruin a patio party like the nagging buzz of mosquitoes. So to keep your gathering pest-free, every host should stock up on a trusty mosquito repellent.

If you plan on hosting a barbecue or entertaining outdoors, fear not! We went on bug patrol to find the best mosquito repellents to keep pests from ruining your good time. From citronella candles and incense sticks to a cordless device that provides an invisible shield of protection, here's how to repel mosquitos using one of the best mosquito repellents for outdoor entertaining.

Our Top Picks

Best Spray:

Sawyer Products Picaridin Insect Repellent at Amazon $9

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Best Patio Shield System:

SALE

Thermacell Patio Shield at Amazon ~~$27~~ $21

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Best Citronella Candle:

Pottery Barn Concrete Candle at Pottery Barn $29

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Best Incense Sticks:

Murphy's Naturals Mosquito Repellent Incense Sticks at Amazon $25

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Best Natural Spray:

Wondercide Natural Insect Repellent at Amazon $24

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Best for Travel:

Thermacell Mosquito Repeller at Amazon $40

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Best Citronella Lantern:

Coleman Citronella Candle Outdoor Lantern at Amazon $11

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Best Sweat-Resistant Spray:

Cutter Backwoods Dry Insect Repellent at Amazon $9

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Best Coils:

PIC Mosquito Repelling Coils at Amazon $18

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Best Essential Oil Spray:

Murphy's Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Insect Repellent at Amazon $13

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Best Spray

Sawyer Products Picaridin Insect Repellent

sawyer-products-20-picaridin-insect-repellent

PHOTO: Amazon

$9 at Amazon $9 at REI View on Sawyer.com

Pros

This conveniently sized spray is formulated with 20% picaridin, an odorless, non-greasy alternative to DEET.

Cons

At four ounces per bottle, you may run through this formula quickly.

Sawyer’s 20% Picaridin Insect Repellent delivers long-lasting protection against pesky insects like mosquitoes, ticks, flies, and gnats. Formulated with 20% picaridin — an odorless, non-greasy alternative to DEET — you can count on this spray to provide up to 12 hours of protection against mosquitos and eight hours against other bugs. The fragrance-free formula is quick-drying, and the spray bottle is small enough to tuck away in your purse or pocket the next time you’re invited to an outdoor event, or inside a picnic basket for pest-free al fresco dining on the go.

Unlike other sprays that leave a greasy or oily feel, this product provides a dry finish, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods. It’s safe for the whole family, and you can spray it on both your skin and clothing to maximize protection.

Type: Spray | Key repellent: Picaridin | Size: 4 fluid ounces

Best Patio Shield System

Thermacell Patio Shield

PHOTO: Walmart

Orig. $27 $21 at Amazon $27 at Target $21 at Walmart

Pros

This easy-to-use device offers a smoke- and flame-free alternative to candles.

Cons

You’ll need to stock up on repellent mats to keep this mosquito repellent ready to go.

Perfect for any outdoor gathering, the easy-to-use, long-lasting Thermacell Patio Shield Mosquito Repeller will keep your party mosquito-free for up to four hours through a 15-foot, invisible zone of coverage. This sleek and cordless repeller is powered by a 12-hour fuel cartridge and uses heat-activated technology to emit a scent-free repellent that drives away mosquitoes as your guests gather around patio furniture and the outdoor bar. It offers an alternative to DEET sprays and lotions and does not produce smoke, flames, or harsh odors. After four hours, simply swap out the repellent mat.

Type: Device | Key repellent: Allethrin | Size: Includes three repellent mats

Best Citronella Candle

Pottery Barn Concrete Candle

Abbott Concrete Candle - Citronella & Geranium

PHOTO: Pottery Barn

$29 at Pottery Barn

Pros

It’s attractive enough to display on a patio table and has a 50-hour burn time.

Cons

It’s on the pricey side, but its ceramic holder can be repurposed.

Earning top marks in our list of editor-favorite citronella candles, this oversized 48-ounce citronella candle from Pottery Barn comes nestled in a concrete pot and can easily blend in with your outdoor dinner party decor. Due to its larger size, it's a great choice for those wanting to cover a large outdoor deck or patio area. It has a burn time of up to 50 hours and emits a soothing aroma of citronella, geranium, rose, eucalyptus, oakmoss, and cedarwood, all while effectively combating pests.

If you're looking for a citronella candle that keeps mosquitoes at bay but won't be an eyesore to your dinner guests, we recommend adding this chic and functional pick to your table.

Type: Citronella candle | Key repellent: Citronella, geranium, and cedarwood essential oils | Size: 48 ounces

Best Incense Sticks

Murphy's Naturals Mosquito Repellent Incense Sticks

PHOTO: Amazon

$25 at Amazon $13 at Target $12 at Grove.co

Pros

These mosquito-repellent incense sticks provide up to 12 feet of protection.

Cons

Offering only 2.5 hours of protection, you may need to light a few throughout your gathering.

Though they'll add to the ambiance and seamlessly blend in with outdoor decor like string lights and floor cushions, these stylish incense sticks are tougher than they look. Natural and effective, they provide 2.5 hours of burning time through a combination of plant-based oils, including rosemary, peppermint, citronella, lemongrass, and cedarwood. Simply light each stick and place it in a holder or pot for 12 feet of mosquito-free range. Plus, they’re formulated without petroleum, synthetic fragrances, or harsh chemicals.

Type: Incense | Key repellent: Citronella, other plant-based oils | Size: 12 sticks per tube

Best Natural Spray

Wondercide Natural Insect Repellent

Wondercide Cedarwood Natural Insect Repellent

PHOTO: Amazon

$24 at Amazon View on Wondercide.com $14 at Chewy

Pros

Easily apply this all-natural, DEET-free spray for quick, effective protection.

Cons

This formula is more expensive than other options of similar size.

To keep pests away next time you host an outdoor party, Wondercide Insect Repellent is a safe option for the whole family. This powerful yet gentle spray is made from natural, sustainable ingredients (this cedarwood option is formulated with cedarwood essential oils) and is safe for people of all ages, including kids, babies, and seniors.

Made without harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances, this DEET-free formula is an effective alternative to traditional bug-repellent sprays. It’s shown to repel 98% of mosquitoes as well as common pests like gnats, ticks, fleas, no-see-ums, and spiders, so everyone can enjoy the barbecued brisket and burnt ends without being a feast for bugs themselves.

Type: Spray | Key repellent: Cedarwood essential oil | Size: 4 fluid ounces

Best for Travel

Thermacell Mosquito Repeller

Thermacell Patio Shield Mosquito Repellent E-Series

PHOTO: Amazon

Orig. $40 $38 at Amazon View on REI View on Basspro.com

For a rechargeable device that you can take anywhere, our editors love the Thermacell E-Series. It covers up to 20 feet, and each cartridge has enough juice to last for 12 hours. Its audible control panel shows the repeller and battery status, so you always know when it's time to refill. It's a great option to bring to a picnic, beach, or campsite while keeping it in your backyard or patio space in the meantime.

"The Thermacell E Series is the only mosquito-repelling device that works for me," says Senior Commerce Writer Jennifer Zyman. "I live in the South, and the summers are so buggy. I like to place two on either side of the area I am entertaining in, and there are never any mosquitos. They are safe and easy to use. You need to purchase the replaceable cells and charge the unit before use. You'll never go back to stinky lotions and bug sprays again."

Type: Rechargeable Device | Key repellent: Allethrin | Size: Includes one 12-hour refill repellent cartridge

Best Citronella Lantern

Coleman Citronella Candle Outdoor Lantern

PHOTO: Walmart

$11 at Amazon Orig. $17 $9 at Walmart $6 at Lowe's

Pros

It provides ample protection instead of spraying a formula on your skin or clothing, plus it comes in an easy-to-carry lantern.

Cons

The lantern only comes with one candle that burns for 70 hours, so you'll need to replace it after that.

Citronella candles are one the must-have essentials for outdoor dining loved by chefs. This 6.7-ounce candle provides up to 70 hours of protection, plenty to protect your outdoor dinner parties all summer long. Made with citronella oil, it creates an effective insect barrier while burning. The enclosed lantern design is portable, so you can move it around your patio or deck to where you need it most.

For maximum protection, stock up on a few of these lanterns and place them around your outdoor area to create a perimeter of defense.

Type: Candle | Key repellent: Citronella oil | Size: 20 ounces

Best Sweat-Resistant Spray

Cutter Backwoods Dry Insect Repellent

PHOTO: Amazon

$9 at Amazon View on Walmart $8 at Walgreens

Pros

This sweat-resistant spray is great for summer barbecues and hangouts and is one of the least expensive options available.

Cons

This formula contains DEET.

Next time you’re hosting or attending a backyard barbecue in the dead of summer, stock up on Cutter Backwoods Dry Insect Repellent. This 25% DEET formula is sweat-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about it rubbing off while you grill your best burgers or play a few rounds of cornhole. Never greasy or oily, it’s designed to protect you from mosquitoes and other bugs that may transmit diseases, and it’s also effective against ticks, gnats, chiggers, fleas, and biting flies, creating a barrier against any bug that may try to ruin your outdoor experience.

Type: Spray | Key repellent: DEET | Size: 4 fluid ounces

Best Coils

PIC Mosquito Repelling Coils

PHOTO: Amazon

Orig. $18 $17 at Amazon $2 at Walmart $14 at Staples

Pros

These coils are easy to use, mess-free, and long-lasting.

Cons

Coils only provide 10 feet of protection.

Skip the spray or lotion and light up one of these mosquito-repellent coils instead. They’re easy to use and highly effective in keeping pests at bay. Coils burn for up to seven hours, ensuring you can enjoy your outdoor space peacefully. To use, simply separate the two loops, insert the top of the coil stand into the slot in the center of the coil, and light the outer end until it glows. Whether sitting on your porch or hosting a backyard barbeque, these coils are mess-free, long-lasting, and safe. You'll be adding them to the list of outdoor entertaining essentials for summers to come.

Type: Coil | Key repellent: Pyrethrum | Size: 10 per pack

Best Essential Oil Spray

Murphy's Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Insect Repellent

Amazon Murphyâs Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Insect Repellent Spray

PHOTO: Amazon

Orig. $13 $12 at Amazon $10 at Target View on Walmart

Pros

This formula is all-natural, with oil of lemon eucalyptus as the primary repellent.

Cons

Other sprays provide longer-lasting protection.

Murphy's Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Insect Repellent Spray is one of the best natural mosquito repellents that can perform as well as DEET or picaridin formulas. Made with 30% oil of lemon eucalyptus, this spray offers up to six hours of mosquito protection and four hours of tick protection without harmful chemicals. With no dyes or synthetic fragrances, it's safe to spray on both your skin and clothing.

Type: Spray | Key repellent: Oil of lemon eucalyptus | Size: 4 fluid ounces

Best Dunks

Summit Responsible Solutions Mosquito Dunks

PHOTO: Amazon

Orig. $12 $10 at Amazon $10 at Walmart $10 at Chewy

Pros

These anti-mosquito dunks are great for party hosters with fountains and other standing water displays.

Cons

Dunks don’t repel mosquitoes, so you may still need another form of protection.

While mosquito dunks don't repel mosquitoes, they can prevent them from invading your backyard. Place them in standing water fixtures like birdbaths and gutters (aka the insect's favorite hangouts) to kill larvae for at least 30 days. The beige-colored, doughnut-shaped dunk is designed to float on water and slowly dissolve, releasing a bacterium toxic to all species of mosquito larvae. They’re ideal for people with fountains and other standing water displays in their outdoor space.

Type: Dunk | Key repellent: Bacillus thuringiensis subspecies israelensis | Size: 6 dunks per pack

Best Wearable Bands

Cliganic Mosquito Repellent Bands

Amazon Cliganic 10 Pack Mosquito Repellent Bracelets

PHOTO: Amazon

Orig. $13 $10 at Amazon Orig. $21 $16 at Target $10 at IHerb

Pros

These mosquito-repelling bracelets are portable, lightweight, and DEET-free, so you won't have to worry about irritating sensitive skin.

Cons

Because each bracelet only provides enough protection for one person, this is not the most convenient option for someone hosting a large party.

Yes, wearable mosquito-repelling bracelets exist! These top-selling bracelets from Cliganic are DEET-free and infused with natural citronella, geranium, and lemongrass essential oils, so they're ideal for sensitive skin. Reviewers are shocked by how effective these lightweight, individually packaged bracelets are, especially when used for camping and hiking with the whole family.

We also think they'd be a fun and thoughtful party favor to provide for guests at a barbecue or bonfire. The colorful bracelets are stretchy, fit all sizes and ages, and can be comfortably worn on your wrist or ankle.

Type: Bracelet | Key repellent: Citronella, geranium, and lemongrass essential oils | Size: Individual

Factors to Consider

Form of Application

With many types of mosquito repellents available, choosing the right one comes down to preference. Overall, a spray is one of the easiest options for anyone hosting an outdoor gathering, as it can be shared among people and reapplied as needed. Candles, coils, and incense are good choices if you’re looking for a repellent that doesn’t require skin contact. Some offer more natural, chemical-free options. Keep in mind that these alternative methods may require multiple applications. For instance, an incense stick may only provide a 10-foot range of coverage for a few hours. There are also wearable options, which can be worn on either a wrist or ankle, though they only protect the person wearing it. Dunks are floating devices that can be placed in water or plants, though they do not repel mosquitos. Instead, they release a bacterium toxic to all species of mosquito larvae. Finally, fuel cartridge devices are a powerful, hands-free way to emit mosquito-repellent, though you have to charge them and change the cartridges when the repellent runs low.

Type of Repellent

One of the biggest debates around mosquito repellents is choosing a natural or chemical formula. The most common active ingredient in commercial insect repellent is DEET, also called diethyltoluamide. Some people experience rashes or irritated skin after using this type of repellent, though it has proven to be extremely effective. Ingredients such as citronella, cedar oil, and lemon eucalyptus are plant-based alternatives but may not be as effective as chemical ingredients like DEET or picaridin and require more frequent reapplication. If you have sensitive skin, consider a natural or low-concentration chemical repellent.

Longevity

Consider the length of time you need protection and choose a repellent that provides the necessary coverage. Usual protection lengths vary between two to three hours for incense and up to 12 hours for spray. For outdoor parties, you may want to provide two options: candles or coils set up in the backyard and a spray for guests to apply as needed.

Ease of use

Every mosquito repellent offers a level of convenience. Sprays are easy to apply, though they may leave an unpleasant, sticky residue or odor on the skin. Candles, coils, and incense are quick to light but may not provide enough protection, especially if you have a big area to cover. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what you and your guests prefer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do mosquito repellents work?

Mosquito repellents release targeted chemicals that mask the scents that attract mosquitoes. These chemicals — typically DEET, picaridin, or a natural alternative like citronella or oil of lemon eucalyptus — create a barrier to repel the insects. They confuse and interfere with mosquitos and other bugs like ticks, flies, and gnats, and deter them from landing on your skin. Some products may also contain compounds that interfere with the mosquitoes' sense of smell or that have a taste they find unpleasant.
Where should you place mosquito repellent in your yard or on your patio?

A mosquito repellent should be placed in areas where mosquitoes are likely to be present, such as by standing water, near plants and bushes, in shaded areas (like under patio umbrellas), or around tables of people. The key is to place it where it will have the maximum exposure to the area you want to protect.
How often should you use mosquito repellent for yards?

Many mosquito repellents like sprays, clip-on units, and candles can be used as needed. However, it’s best to follow the repellent’s instructions as options like dunks and coils may have distinct frequency recommendations.
What plant repels mosquitos?

Some commonly known plants that repel mosquitos include lavender, lemon, and lemongrass. In addition to keeping these plants in your outdoor space, you can also opt for a natural repeller, such as Murphy's Naturals Lemon Eucalyptus Oil Insect Repellent Spray or the Wondercide Insect Repellent. And the Thermacell Mosquito Repellents use a natural repellent found in chrysanthemums, for example.

Our Expertise

Clarissa Buch Zilberman is a writer and editor based in Miami. Specializing in lifestyle, business, and travel, her work has appeared in Food & Wine, Realtor.com, Travel + Leisure, and Bon Appétit, among other print and digital titles.

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