The Magic Device Keeping Me Bug Bite Free All Summer

Last summer I got absolutely eaten to hell by mosquitos. I was applying anti-itch cream like it was body lotion. This year? This year I said, “ENOUGH.” and I bought a Thermacell Mosquito Repeller.

I’ve never trusted citronella candles, I don’t want to smell like bug spray, and I don't trust a bug spray that doesn’t smell like bug spray. So when I read about a device that keeps mosquitos away within a 20 foot radius, doesn’t smell, and is rechargeable? I HAD DOUBTS.

But Wirecutter said it was legit and had a coupon, so I bought a Thermacell E90 and gave it a go. The dang thing really does work. I haven’t hosted any gatherings in my backyard yet this summer (I currently have the heat on and it’s raining), so I haven’t been able to test the 20 foot radius claim, but I turn on my Thermacell any time I’m outside for a longish amount of time. So far, ZERO bites.

Gus loves when I leave the back door open and he can wander inside and out as he pleases, and naturally, that also lets in whatever insects feel like being indoors. I started setting up the Thermacell on my kitchen table, right next to the back door, and it’s done an amazing job of keeping mosquitos out of my house. I’m devastated to say, though, it does not work for flies.

The Thermacell E90 makes no noise, has no smell, there’s no flame, and it doesn’t even get warm. A tiny little wisp of smoke comes out of the top when it’s on, but I couldn’t even get a photo of it, it’s that wispy. It’s safe for everyone, and is so small you can take it anywhere, move it around, and you’ll hardly notice it’s there.

The Thermacell device itself is rechargeable, but you do need to buy new refills after awhile. Each cartridge gives you 40 hours of mosquito-free bliss, so I think it’s worth the $20. Overall, I am thrilled to be spending this summer in my backyard, not getting devoured by bloodthirsty mosquitoes.