Tyler Brooks
Citronella candles are mosquito-repelling candles made from natural plant oils such as soybean, lemongrass, peppermint, lavender, geranium, or geraniol. While these candles are popular, particularly in South Florida, there are concerns about their safety, especially around babies and young children. So, are citronella candles bad for babies?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Effectiveness | Citronella candles may not be effective in reducing mosquito attraction to humans. |
| Safety | Citronella candles can be harmful to babies and young children if not used properly. They can cause skin allergies and irritation, and should not be ingested. |
| Alternative methods | To protect babies from mosquito bites, it is recommended to use clothing, bed nets, socks, cotton mittens, and hats. Spray, gel, or cream repellents can also be applied to the baby's skin, but should be suited for children or infants. |
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What You'll Learn
Citronella candles can be dangerous if not used properly
While citronella candles can be an effective way to repel mosquitoes, they can be dangerous if not used properly.
Firstly, citronella candles are not intended for indoor use. They should be placed on non-flammable surfaces like brick patios or concrete, as they pose a fire hazard. Citronella candles should also be kept away from mulch, fencing, or wooden decks.
Secondly, the smoke from citronella candles can cause breathing issues if inhaled, especially for pets. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals lists citronella candles as poisonous to dogs, as they can cause stomach cramping if ingested.
Thirdly, citronella oil can cause skin allergies, especially in young children and individuals with prolonged or frequent exposure. It is important to follow the label instructions and take steps to minimize exposure. If any exposure occurs, follow the First Aid instructions on the product label and contact a medical professional if necessary.
Additionally, while citronella oil is Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) as a food additive by the Food and Drug Administration, it is important to note that it is also used as a pesticide. The potential of oil of citronella to cause cancer has not been extensively studied. However, one of its minor components, methyleugenol, is "reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen" by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
When used properly, citronella candles can be a safe and effective way to repel mosquitoes. However, it is important to follow the instructions on the product label, minimize exposure, and be aware of the potential risks associated with their use.
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They can cause skin allergies in young children
While citronella candles can be effective in repelling mosquitoes, they may not be the best option for young children. This is because the oil of citronella, which is distilled from two grass varieties, can cause skin allergies in young children with prolonged or frequent exposure.
Citronella oil is a natural insect repellent that masks scents that are attractive to insects. It is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) as a food additive by the Food and Drug Administration and is on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) list of minimum-risk pesticides. However, it can be toxic if ingested and can cause severe illness or death in pets.
When used on the skin, citronella oil can be mildly irritating and cause skin allergies in some people, especially young children. This is because children may be more sensitive to pesticides, and their skin is more delicate than that of adults. It is important to note that essential oils are very strong and should not be used directly on the skin of babies or toddlers. Many oils are not recommended for children under two years of age and may also cause allergies if swallowed.
To protect young children from mosquito bites, it is recommended to dress them in lightweight knits and cotton garments that cover their bodies, including socks and cotton mittens while they sleep. A broad-brimmed hat can also help keep insects away from their faces. Minimizing exposed skin is one of the most effective ways to protect against mosquito bites.
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They are poisonous to dogs
While citronella candles are often used as mosquito repellents, they can be harmful to babies and young children. It is recommended that babies younger than two months old are protected from mosquitoes using clothing and bed nets, rather than chemical repellents. For older babies, lightweight clothing and mosquito repellent creams, gels, or sprays applied to the skin are considered safer options. It is important to choose repellents that are suitable for infants and to avoid spraying them directly onto a child's face.
Citronella candles, in particular, may not be the best option for babies or young children due to the potential risks associated with their use. While the essential oils used in these candles are generally considered safe, they can cause minor irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. Additionally, the smoke from citronella candles can cause respiratory issues if inhaled, and the oil can be harmful if ingested.
Now, are these candles poisonous to dogs? Well, while citronella candles are popular mosquito repellents, the citronella plant and its derivatives are toxic to pets. This includes dogs, who may experience negative effects from exposure to citronella candles, oils, or plants. It is important to use caution and keep citronella products out of your dog's reach to prevent potential health risks.
When it comes to dogs, citronella candles can indeed be harmful. While the essential oils in these candles are generally safe for dogs, there are still some potential risks to be aware of. Firstly, citronella candles pose a burn risk to curious or playful dogs if left within their reach. Secondly, ingestion of the essential oils can lead to gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting or diarrhoea, and in larger amounts, more severe health problems like liver damage. Additionally, some dogs may experience allergic reactions to the citronella scent, exhibiting symptoms such as sneezing, itching, or skin irritation.
To ensure the safety of your dog, it is crucial to follow certain precautions when using citronella candles. Keep the candles out of your dog's reach, and avoid placing them near water sources, as dogs may be tempted to drink the water and ingest the oil. Always use citronella candles in well-ventilated areas to minimise the risk of respiratory irritation. It is also important to monitor your dog's behaviour and health when introducing citronella candles, discontinuing their use if any adverse reactions occur.
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They pose a fire hazard and are not intended for indoor use
While citronella candles are marketed as a natural mosquito repellent, they can be dangerous if not used properly. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals lists citronella candles as poisonous to dogs because they can lead to stomach cramping when ingested by animals attracted to their smell. Inhaling the smoke from citronella candles can also cause breathing issues in pets.
Citronella candles pose a fire hazard and are not intended for indoor use. They should be placed on non-flammable surfaces like brick patios or concrete.
It is important to note that citronella candles are not the only mosquito repellent option. Other methods to protect your baby from mosquito bites include:
- Dressing your baby in lightweight knits and cotton garments that cover their body, including socks and cotton mittens for their hands while they sleep.
- Using a broad-brimmed hat to keep insects away from your baby's face when they are outdoors.
- Choosing light-coloured clothing, as dark or bright-coloured clothing can attract mosquitoes.
- Avoiding floral prints, as these also attract insects.
- Using mosquito repellent sprays, gels, or creams on your baby's exposed skin. Choose a repellent suited for infants or children and follow the instructions on the product label.
- Using mosquito netting to protect your baby, especially around dusk or dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
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They are not evaluated by the EPA for effectiveness
While citronella candles are deemed safe for adults, they can be harmful to babies and young children. Citronella oil is a naturally occurring insect and animal repellent distilled from two grass varieties. It is Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) as a food additive by the Food and Drug Administration. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has not evaluated citronella oil for its effectiveness.
Citronella oil is safe for adults when used on the skin, but it can cause skin allergies in some people, especially young children. It can also be toxic if ingested and can cause severe illness or even death in pets. Inhaling the smoke from citronella candles can also cause breathing issues.
Citronella candles are not the only mosquito repellent option for babies. For babies younger than two months, clothing and bed nets are recommended as the primary form of protection. Dressing babies in lightweight knits and cotton garments that cover their bodies can also help keep them cool while protecting them from mosquito bites.
While citronella candles may offer some protection against mosquitoes, they have not been evaluated by the EPA for effectiveness. As such, it is important to exercise caution when using them around babies and young children, as they may not provide sufficient protection against mosquito bites and the diseases that mosquitoes can carry.
There are other effective mosquito repellent options available that have been evaluated by the EPA. The EPA and the CDC recommend the use of DEET (N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide), which is effective against mosquitoes and ticks. While DEET has a bad reputation, there is overwhelming evidence that it is safe. Picaridin is another option that is as effective as DEET, safer for the skin, and safe for infants over six months.
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Frequently asked questions
Citronella candles are not recommended for use around babies or young children. While citronella oil is generally recognised as safe for adults, it can cause skin allergies and irritation in young children if they come into direct contact with it. Inhalation of the smoke from citronella candles can also cause breathing issues in young children.
To protect babies from mosquito bites, it is recommended to dress them in loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing that covers as much of their body as possible. You can also use mosquito nets and choose to keep them indoors in a cooled room. Applying mosquito repellent creams, gels, or sprays on the baby's exposed skin is another option, but always choose a repellent suited for infants and follow the instructions on the product label.
Natural mosquito repellents such as citronella candles, wristbands, or skin moisturisers are not on the EPA-approved list and may not effectively protect against mosquito bites. There is also a lack of safety studies on these natural repellents. However, some natural plant oils like soybean, lavender, and geranium have been used during pregnancy without increasing the chance of pregnancy-related problems.
Apart from the potential skin allergies and irritation caused by citronella oil, the candles themselves pose a fire hazard and are not intended for indoor use. The smoke from the candles can also cause breathing issues, especially in young children and pets. It is important to always follow the instructions on the product label and take steps to minimise exposure.
