Wristbands are a scam. Clip-ons work if you’re staying put.

Neither mosquito repellent wristbands nor clip-on devices provide reliable protection for most situations, but for opposite reasons.

Wristbands—whether infused with DEET, citronella, or some “natural” oil—only create a tiny zone of repellent around the band itself. Mosquitoes happily bite your ankles, back, and the other arm. Studies (and basic logic) confirm they don’t reduce bites across your whole body. They’re a gimmick that preys on people who hate spraying themselves.

Clip-on devices like the Thermacell are a different story. They work by heating a repellent (usually allethrin) and creating a 10-15 foot bubble of protection. In a stationary setting—camp chair, patio, picnic blanket—they’re genuinely effective. But the moment you walk away, you leave the bubble. They’re not for hiking, gardening, or any activity where you’re moving around.

If you need protection while moving, stick with a good pump spray (picaridin or DEET). If you’re sitting still for a while, a clip-on is fine. The wristband? Give it to a kid who won’t lose the proper stuff.