Tired of having your outdoor time ruined by bugs, but don’t want to douse yourself in bug spray? Thankfully, citronella candles continue to be a hugely useful item because of their effectiveness and noninvasive qualities ie. you don’t smell like bug spray for the rest of the day.
Citronella candles are made with oil taken from citronella grass, which is a type of lemongrass. Bugs, especially mosquitoes, are repelled by the smell of citronella. This makes citronella candles an excellent natural and clean alternative to bug sprays. Citronella can be harmful to animals though, so it’s important to always place the candle in a high spot where an animal cannot access it.
Going deep into the woods for a weekend camping trip? You need a powerful and portable citronella candle. Entertaining friends in your backyard for a casual barbecue? Then you want a candle that doubles as a decor piece. Regardless of your outdoor activity, there is a citronella candle that’s right for you. Check out our top picks below and say bye to bugs.
1. Repel Insect Repellent Citronella Candle
For users who need a large candle to help ward off bugs and mosquitoes, we recommend the Repel Insect Repellent Citronella Candle. The candle comes with three wicks, which gives users the choice to light one, two or all three wicks depending on their need for coverage. The 20-ounce candle can last up to 40 hours of burning time. Encased in a hard, green tin, the Repel candle is designed to discretely fade into the background in an outdoor setting. Slots at the top of the candle allow air to pass through so that the candle will not be knocked over by a powerful gust of wind. Made with real citronella oil, the Repel candle is designed for outdoor use.
Pros: Three-wick candle, durable and discreet tin, made with real citronella oil.
Cons: It can be difficult to light the wicks once the candle burns down halfway.
2. Coleman Scented Citronella Candle
If you don’t like bugs and mosquitos ruining your picnic but also don’t like the smell of citronella, we have a great bug repellent for you. The Coleman Scented Citronella Candle has an inviting s’mores sent that is pleasing to humans and not to bugs. The 6 oz portable but powerful candle uses citronella oil to help ward off bugs and mosquitos. Featuring a tin lid and body that is recyclable, the Coleman is ideal for taking on camping and hiking trips thanks to its portability. We also like that the wood wick has a crackle effect to give the feel of a campfire.
Pros: S’mores scent for those who don’t like citronella, lightweight and portable, read wood wick for crackle effect.
Cons: The Coleman is travel-sized, which means it has about 25 hours of burning time, the lowest on our list.
3. Cutter Citro Guard Citronella Candle
For a discrete way to keep mosquitos and bugs at bay, we recommend the Cutter Citro Guard Citronella Candle. The bucket-style outdoor candle is available in slate, silver and tan, giving users the option to find a bucket that blends into their decor. Providing up to 30 hours of burn time, the 17 oz candle helps to ward off mosquitos and flying insects that come within three feet of the flame. Made with three percent citronella oil, the Cutter Citro candle is approved for outdoor use and can be used with other Cutter Citro candles to create a larger barrier for bugs.
Pros: Bucket comes in various color options, made with real citronella oil, has 30 hours of burn time.
Cons: Users must be within very close proximity to the candle to feel its effect.