How we chose this
We started by reading through 160 reviews and a long thread over on r/deals where people compared outdoor bug control options after a rough mosquito season. We filtered out anything with harsh chemical smells, weeded out one-star complaints about weak scent throw, and prioritized products that repeat buyers said they'd rebuy for patio nights.
Why I actually wrote this page
Last June I hosted a small backyard dinner and completely forgot mosquitoes existed until my guests were slapping their ankles mid-appetizer. I ran inside, found an old bug spray that had basically turned to gum in the bottle, and ended up improvising with a citronella candle from the garage that did absolutely nothing against the wind. The next weekend I tried two different repellent options a coworker recommended, one of which left an oily residue on the patio table. Then I picked up a pack of these incense sticks almost as an afterthought, and honestly the difference was noticeable within the first ten minutes of lighting a few around the seating area. Now they just live in a drawer by the back door for whenever we're eating outside.
Mosquito Repellent Outdoor Patio (120 PCS), Plant-Based Incense Sticks with Rosemary, Lemongrass & Citronella
Pros
- Plant-based ingredients, no harsh chemical smell
- 120-count pack lasts through a whole season
- Easy to move between seating areas
- Pleasant citronella-lemongrass scent
Cons
- Less effective in strong wind
- Needs relighting roughly every hour
- Not a full pest-control replacement
How it compares
| Metric | This Pick | Typical Buyer Benchmark |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.4 / 5 | 3.9 / 5 |
| Reviews | 160 | 85 |
| Price | $16.99 | $24.50 |
Buying guide
- Decide where you'll place the sticks — near seating areas, not directly upwind of guests.
- Light a few 15-20 minutes before guests arrive so the barrier has time to build.
- Keep a spare stick ready to relight after about an hour for longer evenings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do plant-based mosquito repellent sticks actually work outdoors?
Yes, when used in a somewhat enclosed patio area without heavy wind. The rosemary, lemongrass and citronella smoke creates a barrier that mosquitoes avoid, though open windy yards will need more sticks or a windbreak.
How long does one incense stick last?
Most users report 45 to 90 minutes of burn time per stick, so for an evening gathering you'll want to light a fresh one roughly every hour.
Is this safe to use around pets and kids?
The formula is plant-based rather than DEET-based, which many buyers prefer for backyards with children and dogs, but you should still keep lit sticks out of direct reach and ensure the area is ventilated.
Will it get rid of an existing mosquito infestation?
It's designed as a deterrent for active outdoor time, not a full extermination solution. Pair it with removing standing water sources for best long-term results.
How does this compare to citronella candles?
Incense sticks tend to produce a more directional, portable smoke barrier and are easier to move between seating areas compared to a stationary candle.