How We're Dealing with Mosquitoes This Summer
THE FARMHOUSE
*this post is sponsored by Thermacell
This time of year, evenings at our Farmhouse usually bring either wind or mosquitoes. The wind blows at a pretty steady 15-20mph in Ellensburg for much of the spring. And then when we finally get a calm evening to enjoy a garden BBQ or game night, we’re battling mosquitoes. Now let me put this in perspective…we have nothing on the Mid-west! We vacationed in Northern Minnesota a couple of summers ago and experienced a next-level mosquito attack that had us barricaded inside. We have nothing even close to that at our Farmhouse. But mosquitoes are still a sundown nuisance that leave us with some bites when we head in at night.
Over the years we’ve tried a few different strategies for minimizing bites. We planted lavender around the garden, which is supposed to be a natural repellent. We light citronella candles. And we spray ourselves with eucalyptus and lemon oil or other mosquito repellants. These have only been partly effective and often leave us in need of a shower. So this summer we’re going a bit higher tech with a rechargeable Thermacell mosquito repeller (purchased here on Amazon).
garden sources here, Thermacell
This compact device runs on Li-ion batteries so you can place it anywhere around your entertaining area and in short order, the Thermacell establishes a 20’ zone of protection that keeps the pesky fliers away. Larger areas can be protected with multiple units.
The Thermacell E55 is really easy to use and comes with a repellent cartridge that lasts up to 12hrs and replacements are available that last up to 40hrs. You want to place the device in a central (and upwind) location, then insert the repellent cartridge, press power, and forget about it. No need to run for the pants and long sleeves on those hot summer nights!
The Thermacell E55 comes in three color options to match your décor. I have to say, we appreciate the clean design and the size of the device - they are just small enough to be unobtrusive but big enough they won’t get lost. Another bonus for us is that there’s no open flame so we can use this all summer long, even during burn bans (which usually go into effect in June) when even citronella candles are on the no-go list.
So how does the E55 actually repel mosquitoes? It uses a little heating element to vaporize the repellent formula and emits it into the air. When mosquitoes sense the repellent they head the other way. It only takes a tiny amount of the repellent to get the job done so there’s actually no discernable vapor coming from the Thermacell during operation.
Psst: we’re playing Slamwhich here, which is a really fun and silly card game that’s become a family favorite!
We spend so much time in our garden this time of year so the Thermacell is going to get lots of use. Cheers to good times outside…and less mosquito bites!
Any tips on how do you deal with mosquitoes?
