Bug zappers rarely kill mosquitoes — here’s what to use instead

Sorry, but bug zappers don’t work

When it comes to battling mosquitoes, tons of people go for bug zappers to give those pesky blood suckers the fate they deserve — over 1.75 million of these devices are sold each year in the U.S. But bug zappers aren’t effective against skeeters. A study by the University of Notre Dame showed that bug zappers attract more insects like moths, beetles and flies — only about 5% of the insects zapped by bug zappers are mosquitoes. So what does work? Mosquito repellers, sprays and fans.

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There are plenty of other methods available to keep mosquitoes at bay, and these solutions are proven to be more effective, targeting mosquitoes directly without the need for unreliable zappers. And you have your choice of chemical-free options or something a little more high-tech. The important thing is that they all actually work, delivering a mosquito-free summer that you can enjoy without annoying buzzing or itchy bites.

In this article: Thermacell E-Series Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller, OFF! Clean Feel Insect Repellent Aerosol with 20% Picaridin and Geek Aire 12″ Portable Battery-Operated Fan with Metal Blade

Check out the list below for a few options — mosquito repellers for your yard, sprays you can wear when enjoying the great outdoors and more.

Best mosquito repellents (that you don’t have to wear)

Thermacell E-Series Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller

Thermacell’s E-Series Rechargeable Mosquito Repeller provides up to 20 feet of mosquito protection for your yard, making it perfect for barbecues, outdoor gatherings or simply relaxing on the patio. It’s compact, easy to use and doesn’t involve messy sprays or harsh chemicals.

Thermacell Mosquito Repeller Patio Shield

This Thermacell Patio Shield provides a 15-foot protection zone around your outdoor space, making it ideal for patios, decks and gardens. With no sprays or scents, this repeller creates a peaceful, mosquito-free area for hours.

Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito Bug Repellent Candles

Murphy’s Naturals mosquito repellent candles use essential oils like citronella, lemongrass and peppermint to keep mosquitoes at bay, while each 9-ounce candle provides up to 30 hours of burn time.

Best topical mosquito repellents

OFF! Clean Feel Insect Repellent Aerosol with 20% Picaridin

For personal protection, OFF! Clean Feel Insect Repellent offers long-lasting defense against mosquitoes with a 20% picaridin formula that goes on smoothly and doesn’t leave a sticky residue.

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Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito & Tick Bug Repellent Spray

Murphy’s Naturals offers a DEET-free, plant-based mosquito and tick repellent spray that works for both your skin and outdoor gear.

OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent Aerosol

For those who spend time in the woods or other mosquito-prone areas, OFF! Deep Woods Insect Repellent offers heavy-duty protection with a dry, nongreasy formula designed to provide long-lasting coverage.

Best outdoor fans

Geek Aire 12″ Portable Battery-Operated Fan with Metal Blade

This portable, battery-operated fan gets up to 24 hours of run time on a single charge, making it perfect for outdoor use like camping or spending time in your backyard.

Hurricane Pro Heavy-Duty High-Velocity Metal Blade Floor Fan

The Hurricane Pro High-Velocity Fan is great for larger outdoor spaces, providing powerful airflow with three speeds that will help keep you cool and keep mosquitoes away.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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