Enjoying time outdoors is not only a favorite pastime for gardeners like myself but a common activity for most anyone – kids playing in the backyard, summertime grilling and get-togethers, or simply relaxing out on the patio. But when those pesky mosquitoes begin feasting on you, those activities quickly become uncomfortable, not to mention potentially dangerous. It doesn’t have to be this way, though. While there are various ways to fend off these vampire ‘wannabes,’ Thermacell has an even better alternative.
If there were ever an expert in mosquito bite attacks, I would certainly be at the top of the list. It never fails, wherever I go, whatever I do, the little buggers find me. I’ve tried a number of mosquito-repelling plants to no avail. I’ve doused myself in smelly sprays and lotions, and when that didn’t work, I’ve covered myself up head to toe with clothing that “supposedly” doesn’t attract them. I don’t wear pretty smelling stuff to arouse their senses, unless you include sweat, which apparently in some people (probably me) certain mosquito-attracting substances, like lactic acid, are produced in higher quantity. At any rate, they’re attracted to me, and nothing seems to help”¦until now.
I was fortunate enough to try out a couple Thermacell mosquito repellers: the Radius Zone Mosquito Repellent and the Patio Shield Mosquito Repeller. Truthfully, what did I have to lose other than more blood. I was more than happy to put these to the test – anything that can allow me to do what I love most without being eaten alive in the process is much welcomed. And since they offer a 100% guarantee, who wouldn’t want to try them. I really liked the stylish look of both products and love that neither involves any meticulous instructions or stinky bug spray. Already they’ve won me over.
Since I move around a lot in the garden, I figured this would be the best place to begin. The Radius, which creates a 110 square foot mosquito protection zone, is small enough for use anywhere you go, so I carried it with me to the greenhouse sitting area (by the way, this is actually still a work in progress, so for the moment it will be sitting on an upturned container). This Lithium-Ion battery operated product might be little, but it certainly packs a punch, lasting up to 40 hours on a single refill and getting at least 6 hours of operation per charge. It will even continue to do its job of fending off mosquitoes as it charges (outdoors near an outlet, of course). Best of all, it’s easy to use. Once charged and the repeller refill inserted, simply push the button to turn it on and, in no time, you’ll be mosquito free. Really! It also has an automatic off timer so you can set and forget.
The Patio Shield, which helps repel mosquitoes within a 15-foot zone, is great for use on the patio, deck or, in my case, the carport. While larger than the Radius, it’s still compact and stylish. This one also comes in four different colors so if you’re wanting one to match your outdoor décor, then that is certainly an option. The Patio Shield is also easy to use and, unlike the Radius, this one doesn’t require charging. Instead, it comes with a repellent mat that you insert under the grill. Then you activate the mosquito repellent with a butane cartridge, which is also easy to install. When the mat is ready to replace, it will turn from pale blue to white. Thus far, I’ve been able to enjoy hanging out on the carport with my husband for more than 5-10 minutes.
Usually, as I’m tending my beds, relaxing outdoors, or even walking the dog, I become a smorgasbord to all the neighborhood mosquitoes. But I’ve actually experienced a big difference when my handy-dandy Thermacell repellers are operating. Finally, I can play in the garden or kick back on the carport without having to spend all my time swatting at pesky mosquitoes.
