When it comes to mosquito repellents, mosquito coils have been a popular choice for decades. With their easy-to-use and portable design, they can provide much-needed relief from the buzzing and biting of mosquitoes.
But not all coils are created equal. Which ones truly stand out from the rest? Keep reading to learn about the best mosquito coils that burn longer and provide excellent protection for you and your loved ones.
Table of Contents
Our Top Pick
Our Top Pick is the SC Johnson Off Patio & Deck Mosquito Coils for several reasons. They effectively repel mosquitoes with active ingredients like d-cis/trans allethrin, are designed for outdoor use, and are long-lasting, with each coil providing up to 4 hours of protection. They produce minimal smoke and ash, are cost-effective, and have a pleasant scent. Overall, their effectiveness, convenience, long-lasting protection, affordability, and safety features make them a standout option among mosquito coils available in the market.
Buying Guide
Mosquito coils are an effective and affordable way to repel mosquitoes and other flying insects. They are made of a powdered insecticide that is molded into a spiral or spiral-shaped coil. When lit, the coil releases smoke that repels insects, creating a barrier between you and annoying and potentially disease-carrying pests.
Here are the factors to consider to make a purchase:
- Active Ingredient: When choosing a mosquito coil, pay attention to the active ingredient. The most common ingredients are pyrethroids or allethrin, which are both effective at repelling mosquitoes. Pyrethroids are synthetic chemicals that mimic the properties of natural insecticides found in chrysanthemum flowers. On the other hand, Allethrin is a naturally occurring insecticide derived from chrysanthemums.
- Indoor/Outdoor Use: Consider where you will be using the mosquito coils. Some coils are designed for outdoor use only, while others are suitable for indoor use. Indoor coils may produce less smoke and have a milder scent, making them more suitable for use in enclosed spaces.
- Duration: The length of time a mosquito coil lasts is an important factor to consider. Some coils may last up to eight hours, while others may only last a few hours. Choose a coil that fits your needs based on the length of time you plan to be outdoors or in an enclosed space.
- Scent: Some mosquito coils may have a strong odor that may be unpleasant to some people. If you are sensitive to certain scents or suffer from allergies, consider choosing a milder coil or opting for unscented coils.
- Brand: Choose a brand that is reputable and well-known in the market. Read reviews from other users to determine the product’s effectiveness and the brand’s quality.
1. SC Johnson Off Patio & Deck Mosquito Coils
Pros
- Effectively repels mosquitoes and other small flying insects
- Can be put out and re-lit if necessary
- It can be used outdoors
Cons
- The coil holder has to be bought separately
- Some of the coils may arrive broken due to shipping
The Off! brand name, which is one of the most prominent brands in bug spray and repellents, is responsible for producing these mosquito coils under the SC Johnson & Son, Inc. brand. These mosquito coils are effective outdoor insecticides that contain 0.15% D-trans Chrysanthemate as the active ingredient, which is well known for its potency against insects.
Off! Mosquito Coils provide up to four hours of mosquito protection and a pleasant citrus scent. However, burning them may cause a slight chemical-like odor. The pack of six coils does not include a holder and should not be used indoors due to the potential harm they may cause to children and pets. To ensure safety, avoiding touching the lit end, covering exposed food, and keeping them away from flammable objects is important.
These mosquito coils can be reused and provide the same outcome when relit. However, they are highly flammable and toxic to fish, so it is important to keep them away from aquariums and not leave them unattended.
Product Specs
- Active Ingredients: 0.15% D-trans Chrysanthemate
- Active Window: 4 Hours
- Coverage Area: Up to 10 Feet
- Pet Safe: No
- Pack: 6 Packs (24 Coils Total)
- Manufacturer: SC Johnson & Son, Inc.
- Target species: Mosquitoes
- Item Form: Coil
- Item Weight: .22 lb
Customer Reviews
The OFF! Mosquito Coil has gained popularity on E-Commerce platforms such as Amazon and Walmart. Customers have praised its effectiveness in repelling mosquitoes and its pleasant scent. One customer stated that the S C Johnson Country Fresh Scent Mosquito Coil III Refills, which come in a pack of 6, “smells great and works wonders in keeping mosquitoes at bay.” Another customer noted that the product is a bit pricey, but “it’s definitely worth the investment to avoid mosquito bites.”
Despite its many positive reviews, some customers have experienced minor issues with the product. A few have reported receiving damaged coils due to shipping; others have mentioned that the product does not include metal stands. While these are minor inconveniences, they do not detract from the product’s overall effectiveness.
Overall, the OFF! Mosquito Coil is a great option for those looking to keep mosquitoes away during outdoor activities. Its popularity and positive reviews attest to its effectiveness, and its pleasant scent makes it a more enjoyable option compared to traditional bug sprays. While there are minor drawbacks, the benefits of the product outweigh them.
Instructions to Use
- Remove coils from packaging.
- Loosen the outer rings until the end moves freely. Then grasp each comma-shaped portion in the center between the thumb and forefinger of each hand. Separate the two comma-shaped portions by gently pressing them in opposite directions 1/4 inch apart.
- Align the coil with the holder and press the slot of the coil onto the metal holder.
- Light the outer end of the coil until glowing, then blow out any flame. The coil can last up to 4 hours.
- If to be used for a shorter period of time, carefully lift the coil and extinguish it by pressing the glowing end inside the holder. The unused portion can then be relit when needed.
- Save the pot holder for use with the refills.
Store the coil in a dry, safe place away from heat, kids, and pets. Empty the container by the label. Dispose of used coils by placing ashes in the trash and empty pouch in the trash or recycle.
Get the SC Johnson Off Patio & Deck Mosquito Coils on Amazon or Walmart or hardwarestore.com
2. PIC Mosquito Coils
Pros
- Coil stand included
- Lasts five to seven hours
- Perfect for outdoor use
Cons
- Coils are fragile and may arrive broken
- Wind can affect its efficiency
PIC coils are a highly effective product designed to keep mosquitoes away. Manufactured by the renowned brand PIC, which produces various pest and rodent control products, these coils have gained international recognition for their quality.
The active ingredient present in the PIC Mosquito Repellent Coils is d-cis/trans allethrin (0.15%), which is an insecticide known to be highly effective in killing mosquitoes and other small flying insects. The coil works by creating an insecticide smoke barrier that keeps mosquitoes away. Allethrin is a man-made duplicate of pyrethrum, a natural insecticide extracted from chrysanthemum flowers. It disrupts the functioning of the mosquito’s central nervous system.
Each pack of PIC mosquito-repellent coils comes with one burner and eight mosquito-repellent coils. These mosquito-repellent coils can be used outdoors in less breezy areas such as patios and porches and can burn for up to 5 to 7 hours. Multiple coils can be set up to ensure mosquito-free outdoor time. For best results, it is suggested by the manufacturer to place one coil every 10 feet.
The active ingredient present in this mosquito repellent coil is also toxic to fish and other aquatic animals; therefore, it should not be disposed of in the water. However, it is not toxic to birds. Although there are levels of insecticide in these mosquito-repellent coils, there is not a high threat of toxicity.
Nevertheless, it is essential to keep mosquito coils out of reach of children and pets to avoid accidental consumption. Overall, PIC coils are a high-quality product that provides excellent protection against mosquitoes and other small flying insects. Their effectiveness, ease of use, and affordable cost make them popular for outdoor enthusiasts and anyone looking for reliable mosquito control.
Product Specs
- Active Ingredients: Coils is d-cis/trans allethrin (0.15%)
- Active Window: 5-7Hours
- Coverage Area: Upto 10 feet
- Pet Safe: No
- Pack: 2 Pack, 8 Count
- Manufacturer: PIC Pest Free Living
- Target species: Mosquitoes
- Item Form: Coil
- Item Weight: 5.3 ounces
Customer Reviews
PIC Mosquito Coils have gained popularity as an effective solution to repel mosquitoes, according to customer reviews on various e-commerce stores.
Users find the coils easy to use with a light scent. However, some customers have faced issues with the product’s durability, as some of the coils may arrive broken, indicating their fragility. It is crucial to follow the instructions to ensure that the coils last longer and provide adequate mosquito-repellent coverage.
Customers also noted that the product is relatively cheap but can be difficult to separate and may not always meet the advertised packaging claims.
In summary, customers suggest that although PIC Mosquito Coils are a great value and effective way to repel mosquitoes, proper handling is essential to experience fewer issues with the product.
Instructions to Use
- Choose a well-ventilated location away from combustible materials.
- Insert the mosquito coil into the holder.
- Light the coil with a lighter or matchstick.
- Blow out the flame after 10 seconds and let the coil smolder.
- Keep the coil away from children and pets.
- Replace the coil after 8 hours or when it stops emitting smoke.
- Dispose of used coils properly in a trash can.
Get the PIC Mosquito Coils on Amazon or Walmart
3. PIC Citronella Coils
Pros
- Pleasant Citronella smell
- Each coil burns for 5-7 hours
- Keeps mosquitoes and other insects away
Cons
- Coils can break easily.
- The coils are both difficult to light and prone to extinguishing
PIC Citronella mosquito coils contain pyrethrin, a natural insecticide extracted from chrysanthemum flowers. Pyrethrin disrupts the functioning of a mosquito’s central nervous system and is effective in controlling mosquitoes, flies, and other crawling insects in homes and gardens.
The product is an affordable alternative to other mosquito repellent coils and comes with 12 packs of 4 coils, providing value for money. Additionally, each coil can burn for 5 to 7 hours, making it longer-lasting than most commercially available products.
Some users find the scent pleasant due to the citronella, but personal preferences vary. The material of the coils seems less dense than other products, making them prone to breaking if not handled carefully. However, broken pieces can still be used by keeping them together and lighting them up.
Like other mosquito-repellent coils, these should be kept out of reach of children and pets and should not be left unattended while burning to avoid a fire hazard. The product should be used outdoors or in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling dust, fumes, or vapors.
Finally, the coils should not be released directly into the water, as the active ingredient can be toxic to fish and other aquatic animals.
Product Specs
- Active Ingredients: Pyrethrin
- Active Window: 5-7 Hours
- Coverage Area: Upto 10 Feet
- Pet Safe: No
- Pack: 12 Packs of 4 Counts
- Manufacturer: PIC Pest Free Living
- Target species: Mosquitoes
- Item Form: Coil
- Item Weight: 2.18 pounds
Customer Reviews
The PIC Citronella Coils have become popular among e-commerce stores due to their effectiveness in keeping mosquitoes and other insects at bay. According to some customers, these Citronella Coils are a great product that is easy to use, efficient, and emits a pleasant smell.
One customer said they were pleased with the product’s performance and ability to keep mosquitoes away. Another added that they loved the aroma the coils provided while enjoying their time outside. Despite the advantages, there have been reports of the coils being difficult to light and not staying lit. Some customers have also reported receiving broken coils, which made them challenging to use.
Despite the drawbacks, the product is effective when used properly. The coils can create a “circle” of protection around an area, emitting a pleasant smell that customers seem to enjoy. However, some improvements could be made to address the issues that customers have experienced, such as better packaging to prevent broken coils and an improved design for easier lighting.
Overall, the PIC Citronella Coils is a great product that effectively repels mosquitoes and other insects. With some improvements, this product can continue to be a go-to solution for those looking to enjoy their time outside without pesky bugs around.
Instructions to Use
- Select a location for the coil that is upwind and positioned in the center of the area you want to protect. This could be a patio, deck, or any other outdoor area.
- Place the coil on a flat, heat-resistant surface like a ceramic plate or a specially designed coil holder.
- Light the end of the coil with a lighter or match until it begins to smolder and release smoke.
- Allow the coil to burn for about 10-15 seconds until a steady stream of smoke is produced.
- Blow out the flame and allow the coil to smolder and release smoke. Make sure the coil is placed in a location where it will not be easily knocked over.
- The coil will continue to burn for approximately 5-7 hours, depending on conditions such as wind and humidity.
- Use multiple coils spaced evenly throughout the area you want to protect for best results.
- When finished, extinguish the coil by gently tapping it with a stick or other object until the flame is completely extinguished. Dispose of the coil in a trash receptacle.
It’s important to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using any insect-repellent product. Also, keep in mind that while citronella can be an effective natural insect repellent, it may not provide complete protection against all types of mosquitoes and other flying insects.
Get the PIC Citronella Coils on Amazon or Walmart or hardwarestore.com
4. W4W Citronella Coils
Pros
- Natural essential oil containing eco-friendly product
- Provides long-lasting protection from mosquitoes–each coil burns for 5 to 7 hours
- Perfect to be used for patios, porches, camping trips, pool areas, backyards, and any outdoor activities
- One coil can cover up to 10 feet of area
- Contains coil stands as well
Cons
- Difficult to separate without breaking
Citronella mosquito repellent coils are a natural product that keeps mosquitoes and insects away. Approved by the US Environmental Protection Agency, the active ingredient in these coils is the natural essential oil of Citronella. Unlike chemical-based products, this oil works by masking attractive scents for insects due to its strong smell, effectively preventing mosquitoes and other insects from approaching humans and pets.
When the coils are burned, the oil turns into vapors that break down in a matter of hours, making them eco-friendly. These coils are suitable for use outdoors and in confined areas with proper ventilation, such as patios, porches, camping trips, and pool areas. They provide long-lasting mosquito control by burning for 5 to 7 hours and come in a 5-pack containing 20 coils and 10 stands, providing good value for money.
Citronella oils are safe to use around pets or children, but prolonged exposure to the smoke caused by the burning coil may lead to breathing problems. Manufacturers advise never leaving a burning coil unattended, as it may lead to a fire hazard or accidental contact by children or pets. These coils are non-toxic to birds, slightly toxic to fish and other aquatic organisms, and do not harm bees or other pollinators.
Although these coils do not have a bad smell, the strong odor may be off-putting for some people. In summary, citronella mosquito repellent coils are a safe and natural way to keep pesky mosquitoes away from outdoor activities while also being eco-friendly and non-toxic to most animals.
Product Specs
- Active Ingredients: Citronella
- Active Window: 5-7 Hours
- Coverage Area: Up to 10 Feet
- Pet Safe: Yes
- Pack: 5 Pack- 20 coils & 10 Coil Stands
- Manufacturer: W4W
- Target species: Mosquitoes
- Item Form: Coil
- Item Weight: 12.8 ounces
Customer Reviews
The W4W Citronella Mosquito Repellent Coils have become increasingly popular among online retailers.
Numerous customers have attested to the effectiveness of these coils in keeping mosquitoes at bay while also emitting a pleasant aroma. One satisfied customer raved about the product’s effectiveness, while another appreciated the pleasant scent.
However, some users have reported that the coils are difficult to separate without breaking and that they do not perform as well as they had hoped. Despite this, many customers still consider the product to be a worthwhile investment for keeping mosquitoes away.
Overall, the W4W Citronella Mosquito Repellent Coils are a practical and convenient solution for outdoor mosquito protection. While they may not work perfectly for everyone, they are still a popular and effective option for many.
Instructions to Use
- Find a flat surface: Look for a flat surface outside where you plan to use the coils. This could be a patio table, a picnic table, or any other stable surface.
- Unpack the coils: Remove the packaging from the mosquito-repellent coils.
- Open the container: Open the container that holds the coils. You’ll see several coiled incense sticks inside.
- Take out one coil: Carefully take out one coil from the container.
- Insert the coil into the holder: Insert one end of the coil into the slot on the holder. Make sure it is securely in place.
- Light the coil: Light the other end of the coil with a lighter or match. Let it burn for a few seconds until it starts to produce smoke.
- Blow out the flame: When the coil starts producing smoke, carefully blow out the flame. You want the coil to smolder and produce smoke, not burn with a flame.
- Place the coil: Place the holder with the smoldering coil in the desired location, preferably in a location that’s downwind from where you’ll be sitting. You can use multiple coils if needed to cover a larger area.
- Enjoy the outdoors: The smoke produced by the citronella coil should help repel mosquitoes and other flying insects, allowing you to enjoy your time outside without being bothered by bugs.
- Dispose of the coil: Once the coil has burned out, dispose of it properly. Allow it to cool completely before discarding it in the trash.
Get the W4W Citronella Coils on Amazon or Walmart
Conclusion
Mosquito coils are an effective way to repel mosquitoes and are superior to using candles because they do not pose a fire hazard and are less likely to go out. However, it’s important to note that many coil packages sold in stores are just refills. If you don’t already have a coil burner at home, you’ll need to purchase one separately.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many mosquito coils should I use?
It depends on the size of the area you want to protect, but usually, one or two coils are enough for an average-sized room.
How do I dispose of used mosquito coils?
Allow the coil to burn completely, then dispose of the ashes in a non-combustible container.
Can mosquito coils cause health problems?
Mosquito coils can cause health problems if used improperly or in poorly ventilated areas.