Sometimes it feels like when we go outside for a family meal, we might as well be the ones on the menu for mosquitos. If you’re fed up with these pesky bugs, try making your own citronella candles at home. They help keep mosquitoes away, allowing you to enjoy your grilled chicken without any hassle.
Citronella-scented candles are a safe, non-toxic way to repel mosquitoes and other flying insects. They’re similar to homemade beeswax candles but with added essential oils, and they also create a lovely atmosphere in your outdoor space, especially as the sun sets.
The EPA states that citronella oil has been used as a natural insect repellent for humans for over 50 years, and it’s so safe there haven’t been any reports of adverse incidents. Citronella is related to lemongrass and has a similar scent. A study from 2014 found that citronella bug repellents are as effective as DEET, though the natural bug spray needs to be reapplied more often.
While outdoor citronella candles are a popular choice, there might be an even better option for repelling mosquitoes. Studies suggest that lemon eucalyptus essential oil could be more effective. Essential oils often work better together, so this recipe includes both citronella and lemon eucalyptus. Virginian cedarwood is another excellent DEET-free insect repellent option.
It’s important to note that oil of lemon eucalyptus is a plant-based insect repellent tested and approved by the EPA. The lemon eucalyptus essential oil comes from the distilled plant, not an extract. Although it doesn’t have the same extensive testing and approval as oil of lemon eucalyptus, there’s still evidence that it’s effective.
Making your own candles is fun and rewarding! While regular candles aren’t as harmful as insecticides like DEET, they still have some downsides. You can find clean-burning triple-wick citronella candles on Amazon or at most big stores during summer. However, those usually contain soy wax, which is often GMO. Personally, I prefer using beeswax for its scent and benefits.
If you’re not up for making candles yourself, there are companies that sell beeswax and citronella candles. They offer larger options in jars made from a mix of coconut oil, beeswax, and essential oils for longer burn times. Plus, they have various sizes of beeswax candles, like tea lights.
This recipe makes two 12-ounce bucket candles or three 8-ounce candles, about the size of half-pint mason jars. You could even make small votive candles, but keep in mind they’ll burn faster. Citronella bucket candles add a charming touch to your outdoor decor.
Candles make a great centerpiece for your next summer party or family time outdoors. Beeswax candles burn slowly, so they need thicker, sturdier wicks than paraffin candles. The way a wick burns depends on factors like the container size and how refined the beeswax is. I’ve listed the wicks that have worked well for me with refined beeswax in the recipe below, but you might need to experiment to find the right size for your wax and container combination.
I discovered that one pound of beeswax wasn’t enough to fill the buckets completely. If you don’t mind them being a bit less full, you can use one pound of beeswax, half a cup of coconut oil, and a teaspoon each of essential oils.
Wondering how many candles you’ll need in your yard? It depends on the size of your space, the number of bugs, and how windy it is. You might need more candles on breezier days.
Are these candles safe to use around kids? Both lemon eucalyptus and citronella essential oils are considered safe to burn near children.
Have you ever tried citronella candles? Do they work well for you? Feel free to share your thoughts!
