Why Thermacell Stands Out
After investing 70 hours delving into a market filled with exaggerated claims and ineffective solutions, we have singled out Thermacell products for their proven effectiveness. In our guide to the best mosquito-control gear for your patio or yard, we recommend four Thermacell products—two for home use and two more suitable for camping or hunting.
Thermacell designs devices that function as diffusers, utilizing heat to vaporize a small amount of insecticide into the air, creating a mosquito-free zone. The active ingredients, metofluthrin or allethrin, have been scientifically shown to be efficient spatial repellents for mosquitoes. These chemicals have undergone rigorous testing by regulatory bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency and are considered safe for their intended purpose.
Top Thermacell Products for Home Use
Our Choice
With a rechargeable battery, extended repellent supply, and user-friendly interface, the E90 surpasses other spatial mosquito repellents in ease of use.
Our tests validated the effectiveness of the Thermacell E90 Rechargeable Mosquito Repellent, covering slightly over 300 square feet (approximately a 20-foot diameter circle) under calm conditions. The E90’s uncomplicated interface and rechargeable lithium-ion battery (lasting nine hours) make it a convenient and user-friendly repellent. The E90 is packaged with a 12-hour repellent cartridge, with 40-hour cartridges also available.
Upgrade Pick
The Thermacell LIV is a comprehensive system that can shield a large area from mosquitoes.
The Thermacell LIV Smart Mosquito Repellent System represents a significant investment for broader area coverage. It comprises three, four, or five diffusers resembling upscale landscape lights. These devices are linked to an app that grants full system control, including activation/deactivation of diffusers, scheduling, monitoring remaining repellent, adjusting light colors on the units, and connection to a smart-home system.
Top Thermacell Products for Camping or Hunting
Also Excellent
Thermacell’s EX90 shares the same technology as the E90 but boasts features that make it more suitable for camping and outdoor activities.
Internally, the EX90 mirrors the E90, but the former sports a more compact design, rubberized grip areas on the sides, a lanyard and carabiner for hanging (e.g., from a branch), and a secure lid (unlike the E90’s magnetic lid). The EX90 is priced the same as the E90, so the decision lies in whether you require the added robustness of the EX90.
Also Excellent
The MR450 is more rugged and portable compared to our other selections. Its butane fuel source makes it perfect for extended camping trips, although not as convenient as a lithium-ion battery-powered option.
We suggest opting for this model only if you require enhanced durability for extended camping expeditions. The MR450 operates on a butane cartridge, which depletes faster and is more challenging to replace compared to recharging a battery. Additionally, this model uses four-hour repellent pads, which have a shorter lifespan than repellent cartridges and are trickier to gauge remaining use.
Maximizing Your Thermacell’s Performance
Remember, your Thermacell needs approximately 10 to 15 minutes to start working effectively. Turn it on before heading outdoors to allow the repellent to saturate the area.
Keep in mind that Thermacells are ineffective in windy conditions. Their mechanism relies on creating a protective zone around the diffuser, which can easily be disrupted by strong winds.
When replacing repellent cartridges, take care not to break the wicks by pulling the cap straight up. Some users have accidentally damaged the wicks, rendering the cartridge unusable.
A derivative of this article was initially featured in our 2021 “52 Things We Love” series, highlighting enduring Wirecutter recommendations. Read the full series. The latest version was edited by Annemarie Conte and Doug Mahoney.
