Whether we’re hosting a gathering with friends and family or simply trying to enjoy a meal on a weeknight, pests always find a way to crash the party. It’s an unfortunate reality few of us can escape entirely. And it always gets especially worse in the warmer months, when mosquitos, flies, moths, and more bugs thrive. 

Just because it is a way of life (for both humans and critters) doesn’t mean you can’t do anything about it. In fact, expert Allan Bossel of BBE Bed Bug Exterminator, who has years of general bug and pest experience, gave us quite a few tips to help. All of them are simple and easy to implement, which means we don’t need to spend hours this summer tending to our kitchens and outdoor spaces. Peruse through each item below, including tested favorites of ours, to find what works best for you, starting at just $12. 

Expert-Recommended Pest Control Gadgets 

Rubbermaid Brilliance 7-Piece Food Storage Container Set

Bossel recommends having great airtight containers on hand, whether for indoor or outdoor eating. “The storage of food inside and outside of the house in closed containers ensures that it does not become accessible to pests. This technique also keeps away bugs that are attracted by food scents,” he says. These Rubbermaid containers are a consistent favorite of ours (and myself), acing all of our tests. They’re perfect for a wide range of situations, like keeping food in your pantry, storing food in your refrigerator, and taking food outside. The sleek design and airtight seal will keep everything out, and all your ingredients fresh. I also love how lightweight they are, which makes them easy to take on the go if you need. 

Amazon Basics Stainless Steel Rectangular Trash Can

Bossel highly recommends a stainless steel trash can for your kitchen. “Other than containing waste food, this kind of trash can also minimizes the smell that attracts these insects. Again, it is essential to empty the trash frequently to prevent any remaining scraps from becoming a breeding site for bugs.” We tested a wide range of options on the market, and found that this Amazon Basics trash can performed the best. The stainless steel body and the tight-fitting lid keep odors in check, and they will also keep bugs from getting in. We also found that it was easy to keep clean, since the inner liner is removable. 

La Jolie Muse Citronella Candle

A citronella candle is an outdoor party essential, according to Bossel: “The soft light produced by these items creates a romantic atmosphere while eliminating disturbing insects such as mosquitoes.” Bossel also says that this’ll help with flies, too. Not all citronella candles are made alike — this La Jolie Muse ranked as an overall editor favorite for our team. It’s made of soy wax, which we prefer. It has three wicks for the best heating and melting. And, we found that it has no smoke at all, which we couldn’t say for other citronella candles. The chic body and the lid keeps it safe when it’s not in use. For only $12, it’s a steal. 

Deco Window 4-Piece Torch Set

The same can be said about torches, Bossel notes. If you prefer the look of these, or need more options to spread out among a wide space, this is your best bet. These Deco Window ones come in sets of four, and are perfect when paired with citronella oil for a double-duty impact. They come in a few different colors, like brown (my favorite), silver, black, and more. With over 4,000 perfect ratings from shoppers, they’re a great pick for barbecues to come. 

Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum

It’s time to upgrade your vacuum. “For dealing with indoor sightings swiftly, use a portable vacuum cleaner with a HEPA air filter as well. It also helps get rid of crumbs that may bring about infestation by pests,” Bossel says. This is the best vacuum cleaner on the market, according to our tests. It’s highly maneuverable thanks to its efficient design. Not only that, but it has incredible suction power, and the added attachments and lift-away pod make it easy to get in every nook and cranny — a key concern for your kitchen. The price also ranks right in the sweet spot, since it’s not too expensive, but reflects the vacuum’s value accurately. 

Professor Killamoth Cedar Chips and Lavender Sachets Set

“If you prefer natural remedies then sachets filled with dried lavender or cedar in kitchen cupboards could assist you,” Bossel says. “They both act as insect repellants when placed near where pests usually rest or feed on your stored groceries inside cupboards.” This nifty set couples both types — cedar and lavender — for a well-rounded pick. There are 10 sachets to distribute throughout your home. Shop them on Amazon now for just $2 apiece.