Best Mosquito Coils (and Are They Safe?)

Burning coils release a repellent smoke that does reduce mosquito bites in a small outdoor area. The catch is the smoke itself: burning coils indoors or in enclosed spaces raises a genuine air-quality concern, so they’re an outdoor, well-ventilated tool only.

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.

1. SC Johnson Off Patio & Deck Mosquito Coils

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.

Our take

Only about 25 verified reviews so far (3.8★), so treat the rating as preliminary; early buyers note pleasant smell to humans.

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2. PIC Mosquito Coils

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.

Our take

Across 523 verified reviews (3.98★, 73% rated 4★+), buyers most often praise easy to use and light scent. The recurring complaint: fragile, and coils may arrive broken.

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3. PIC Citronella Coils

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.

Our take

Across 208 verified reviews (3.31★, 56% rated 4★+), buyers most often praise easy to use and efficient and pleasant smell. The recurring complaint: coils not staying lit, and breaking easily.

Get the PIC Citronella Coils on Amazon or Walmart or hardwarestore.com

4. W4W Citronella Coils

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.

Our take

Only about 58 verified reviews so far (3.79★), so treat the rating as preliminary; early buyers note reaches up to 10 feet.

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.

The one step that matters most: dump the standing water

No spray, zapper, or candle outperforms removing where mosquitoes breed. Females lay eggs in standing water, and larvae mature to biting adults in about a week, so empty or refresh anything that holds water — buckets, plant saucers, gutters, birdbaths, tarps, toys — every few days (CDC: Mosquito Control at Home). Pair that with an EPA-registered repellent for yourself and targeted control for the yard. The full plan is in every way to get rid of mosquitoes.

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.

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