Tyler Brooks
Candles can be a great way to set the mood for a romantic evening or a relaxing night in, but they can also be useful for keeping unwanted insects at bay. While there are many types of insect-repellent candles on the market, such as those containing peppermint, lavender, and cedar, citronella candles are the most popular choice for keeping mosquitoes and other flying pests away. However, some sources claim that citronella candles are ineffective at repelling insects, and other methods, such as bug sprays, mosquito traps, and fans, may be more successful. In this article, we will explore the best options for insect-repellent candles and provide tips for maximizing their effectiveness.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Ingredients | Citronella, peppermint, lavender, cedar, lemon eucalyptus, lemongrass, rosemary, cinnamon, orange, basil, tea tree oil |
| Effectiveness | Citronella candles are thought to repel mosquitoes, flies, and other flying pests, but some sources claim that they are ineffective. |
| Burn Time | 4-40 hours |
| Size | 1.5-inch wide, 6-ounce, 8-ounce |
| Number of Wicks | 1-3 |
| Weight | 0.74-1.1 pounds |
| Safety | Keep out of reach of children and pets. For outdoor use only. Keep candle free of matches and all other materials. |
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What You'll Learn
Citronella candles: do they work?
Citronella candles are thought to repel mosquitoes, flies, and other flying pests. They are often recommended for outdoor use, such as on patios, backyards, or picnics, to create a pleasant ambiance while keeping insects away. However, the effectiveness of citronella candles in repelling mosquitoes has been questioned. While some sources claim that they are moderately effective in the immediate area surrounding the candle, others suggest that they are mostly ineffective and provide a false sense of security.
Citronella, an essential oil distilled from dried cultivated grasses, has long been regarded as a "natural" mosquito repellent. It is sold in various forms, including candles, essential oil diffusers, and tiki torches, all promising to keep pests at bay. However, according to some experts, repellents like picaridin and DEET are more effective in blocking mosquito receptors consistently.
The limited effectiveness of citronella candles means that mosquitoes may still bite individuals sitting nearby. While the candles may provide a slight repellent effect in the immediate vicinity, they do not prevent mosquitoes from entering yards or multiplying. Thus, it is recommended to use citronella products as just one layer of protection in a multipronged approach to mosquito control. This approach includes eliminating sources of standing water, using fans, and incorporating mosquito-repelling plants in the environment.
Some alternatives to citronella candles that are recommended for mosquito control include bug sprays with picaridin as the active ingredient, permethrin-treated clothing, and the Thermacell E65 and MR450 mosquito repellers. These alternatives offer more reliable protection against mosquitoes and other insects.
In conclusion, while citronella candles may provide a slight repellent effect in close proximity, they are not a foolproof method for keeping insects away. Combining citronella candles with other mosquito-control strategies can help enhance their effectiveness and create a more enjoyable outdoor experience.
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Alternative essential oils
Citronella candles are the most common insect-repelling candles. However, they are not very effective, and there are other essential oils that can be used as natural alternatives to synthetic insect repellents.
Lavender
Lavender essential oil is effective at battling bugs. It can be sprayed from an atomizer or left in a saucer to help keep away ants and insects and disinfect the air. It can also be used to make pillows and sachets, which can be placed in linen closets and dressers to keep away moths and other insects.
Basil
Basil essential oil is particularly effective in wet climates with many lakes and ponds. It has been shown to exhibit mosquito-repellent and larvicidal activity. It can be added to an atomizer and sprayed outside for a natural mosquito repellent.
Thyme
Thyme has been found to be a highly effective insecticide against houseflies and an excellent mosquito repellent. It also has strong antimicrobial properties.
Pine
Pine essential oil is a natural mosquito repellent and will leave you smelling fresh.
Peppermint
Peppermint essential oil is a natural insecticide that kills and repels mosquitoes.
Bergamot
Bergamot essential oil can be added to natural insect-repellent sprays. It has a mood-boosting, fruity fragrance. However, it is very phototoxic, so it should not be used as a topical insect repellent.
Rosemary
Rosemary essential oil is perfect for hiking and lake activities as mosquitoes have an aversion to it.
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Other insect-repelling products
While candles that contain essential oils such as citronella, cedar, geranium, and clove are often regarded as natural mosquito repellents, they are not very effective. A study from the University of Delaware found that out of 13,789 insects killed by bug zappers, only 31 were biting flies or mosquitoes. Other mosquito-fighting products like repellent bracelets, ultrasonic devices, and mosquito traps have also been found to be ineffective.
Fans: Mosquitoes are weak fliers, so a simple fan can help keep them at bay by circulating the air and preventing them from reaching you. Doug, an expert on mosquito control, recommends keeping the fan at knee level, as mosquitoes tend to fly low.
EPA-Approved Repellents: Products containing ingredients such as DEET and picaridin are more effective at repelling mosquitoes than essential oils. A study conducted by scientists from the University of Delaware found that DEET and oil of lemon eucalyptus sprays reduced mosquito attraction by 60%.
The Thermacell E65: This is a spatial mosquito repellent that creates a bug-free barrier. It is easy to refill or recharge and is effective in keeping mosquitoes from swarming.
The Thermacell MR450 Mosquito Repeller: This product is similar to the Thermacell E65 but is more rugged and suitable for camping or sporting events. It operates using a butane cartridge, which is less convenient than a rechargeable battery.
OFF! Clip-On Fan: This wearable device contains the insecticide metofluthrin and has been found to be effective in repelling mosquitoes.
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Safety precautions
Insect repellent candles are widely available, with many claiming to repel mosquitoes and other flying insects. However, it is important to take precautions when using any candles, and especially so when using insect repellent candles, which may contain essential oils and other ingredients that can be harmful if not used correctly. Here are some safety precautions to follow when using insect repellent candles:
Keep Out of Reach of Children and Pets
Never leave a burning candle unattended, especially around children and pets. Keep candles out of their reach and do not allow children to play with or near them.
Burn Within Sight
Always burn candles in a well-ventilated area and within your sight. Do not leave a burning candle unattended, as it poses a fire hazard.
Trim the Wick
Before lighting an insect repellent candle, ensure that the wick is trimmed to 1/4 to 1/2 inch. This helps promote an even burn and prevents the candle from producing excessive smoke.
Stable, Flat, Heat-Resistant Surface
Place the candle on a stable, flat, and heat-resistant surface to prevent accidental fires or damage to furniture. Avoid burning candles on cold, wet, or unstable surfaces.
Avoid Drafts
Keep the candle away from drafts, air conditioners, and fans. Burning candles in drafty areas can cause uneven burning, excessive dripping, or sooting, and may increase the risk of fire.
Container Handling
The container will become hot during burning. Never touch or move a lit candle, and allow the wax to harden and the container to cool completely before handling.
Stop Use at 1/4 Inch Wax
Discontinue use of the candle when there is about 1/4 inch of wax remaining. Burning a candle beyond this point can be dangerous and may damage the surface on which it is placed.
Do Not Extinguish with Lid or Water
Do not use the lid or water to put out the candle. Instead, blow it out gently to avoid hot wax splatters.
Outdoor Use Only
Some insect repellent candles, such as those containing citronella oil, are intended for outdoor use only. Do not burn these candles in enclosed spaces, such as garages or porches.
Keep Away from Flammable Objects
Never burn candles on or near anything that can easily catch fire. Keep the candle away from curtains, paper, furniture, and other flammable materials.
Skin Sensitivity
Some individuals may have sensitive skin that reacts adversely to certain essential oils or ingredients in insect repellent candles. If you experience skin irritation, discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.
Ingestion Hazard
Keep insect repellent candles away from young children and infants. These products may contain essential oils or other ingredients that can be harmful if ingested. If ingested, seek immediate medical attention.
Read Instructions and Warnings
Always read the instructions, warnings, and ingredient lists provided by the manufacturer of the insect repellent candle. Follow their specific guidelines for safe and effective use.
Effectiveness Varies
It is important to note that the effectiveness of insect repellent candles varies. While they may help repel insects, they may not provide complete protection. Consider using other methods, such as bug sprays or mosquito traps, in conjunction with the candles for better results.
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Where to buy
Insect repellent candles can be purchased from a variety of online and in-store retailers. Here are some options for where to buy these candles:
Amazon
Amazon.com offers a wide range of insect repellent candles with various features, such as different colours, scents, and natural or plant-based ingredients. You can filter your search on Amazon to find the perfect candle for your needs and take advantage of their fast delivery options.
Lowe's
Lowe's sells citronella candles, which are popular for repelling mosquitoes and other flying insects. They offer a range of colours, including silver, copper, black, yellow, blue, and grey. You can shop online at Lowes.com or visit your local Lowe's store to browse their selection of tabletop and votive candles.
UCO Gear
UCO Gear offers citronella candles ideal for outdoor use, such as camping, patios, and lanterns. Their candles are long-lasting, clean-burning, and effective at repelling mosquitoes and other bugs. You can purchase their candles online at ucogear.com, where they offer a 3-pack of citronella candles.
The Home Depot
The Home Depot carries a selection of citronella candles and torches for pest control. They offer various brands, including TIKI, Thermacell, and Murphy's Naturals, with different prices and pack sizes to suit your needs. You can shop online and take advantage of their free 1-2 day delivery or visit your local store.
Walmart
Walmart offers Murphy's Naturals Mosquito Bug Repellent Candles, which are made with a soy/beeswax blend and infused with citronella and essential oils. These candles have a 30-hour burn time and come in a 2-pack for outdoor use. You can purchase them online at Walmart.com or in-store, depending on availability.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, there are candles that are marketed as insect repellents. These candles typically contain citronella, peppermint, lavender, rosemary, lemon eucalyptus, tea tree, or cedar essential oils, which are thought to repel mosquitoes, flies, and other flying pests.
While citronella candles are the most popular insect-repelling candles, they are not very effective. They may provide some relief from mosquitoes and other insects, but only in the immediate area around the candle. For this reason, it is recommended to combine citronella candles with other insect repellent methods, such as bug sprays and mosquito traps.
Some alternatives to citronella candles include repellent bracelets, ultrasonic devices, bug zappers, and fans. However, it is important to note that these methods may not be completely effective on their own either. Repellent bracelets, for example, may not have a high enough concentration of repellents, and ultrasonic devices have been found to have no repellency value.
Some effective insect repellent candles include the Cutter's Citro Guard Triple Wick Candle, which has a 40-hour burn time, and the Coleman LED Citronella Scented Candle, which features color-changing lights and a sturdy glass construction. The OFF! Backyard Citronella Candle is another option that provides a natural insect repellent without an overpowering scent.
