10 Best Citronella Candles Compared & Reviewed

 

Best Citronella Candle Review – Top Rated Models with Buying Guide

 

If you are interested in getting the best citronella candle for the money, but you are short on time, and you cannot do a lot of research on this topic, we can help. After assessing the market by taking a close look at the best-rated options out there, we have concluded that the Cutter 95783 Citro Guard is the choice you should consider getting. This candle is 17-ounce and it can burn for no less than 30 hours. It can be used to repel flying insects such as mosquitos and it can be installed on your patio, deck or campsite, depending on your needs. The bucket that holds the candle is available in numerous colors and, thus, it can perfectly blend in with any décor. If this option is unavailable at the time you go shopping, feel free to take a closer look at the Candle by the Hour 80-Hour Citronella, as you might also like it.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

10 Best Citronella Candles (Updated Reviews) in 2024

 

 

Finding an affordable citronella candle can be rather time-consuming, especially given the many options that are currently available. If you need help selecting a product of this sort, here is a comprehensive list of highly-reviewed products that are recommended by former users, as well as by the specialists.

 

 

1. Cutter 95783 Citro Guard 

 

This 17-ounce candle is perfect for your patio area. The model was made of 3% real citronella oil and, thus, when installed outside, it can protect you and your loved ones from mosquitoes as well as from other insects. Given its size, this candle can burn for about 30 hours.

To create a larger insect repellent perimeter, it is recommended that you use more than one such candle. For safety reasons, the candles should be placed 18 inches apart. The model comes provided with detailed instructions on how to use the candle. The bucket that holds the candle is available in a wide array of colors so that the model that you select suits your preferences and the décor.

If stored properly, the product can be used for years to come. It is best that you refrain from using the candle in the rain or when the weather is not calm.

 

Pros

This model measures 10 by 7 by 3 inches, and it has an overall capacity of 17 ounces. It was designed to burn for up to 30 hours.

Given that it was made using 3% real citronella oil, this candle can protect you from mosquitoes and other insects that might annoy you.

The choice is safe to be used outdoors. You can install it on your patio, or you can take it with you when you go camping. It is rather versatile.

Plus, because this product is provided with instructions, you won’t risk using it or disposing of it improperly.

 

Cons

The smell of the candle is not very strong. To create a more powerful barrier against mosquitoes, you should install more than one candle. This is true for other alternatives as well.

In some rare cases, the product might arrive broken due to mishaps during transportation. This does not affect the efficiency of the candle.

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2. Candle by the Hour 80-Hour Citronella 

 

If you are interested in investing in a cool-looking candle, be sure to take a look at this model. The option is made of 100% beeswax, a material that is natural and, thus, it does not have the toxicity that other candles made of paraffin emit. Moreover, you can also burn it indoors.

Design-wise, this product features a glass cylinder and a cotton wick. The metal stand that keeps the model straight is durable and it looks elegant. Overall, this candle has a unique construction and it is both innovative and rustic. It can fit perfectly in your home, especially if you have a soft spot for fancy-looking candles.

Apart from having a repellent effect against mosquitoes, this candle can also help purify the air in your home by neutralizing pollutants such as dust, mildew or foul odors. It is suitable to be used by those who suffer from asthma or allergies.

 

Pros

This beeswax candle is made of natural materials and, as a result, it is safe as it does not emit any chemicals that might be harmful to you.

Given its very elegant and beautiful design, this candle will surely catch your attention. It can fit perfectly in any home.

You can also use it to purify the air in your house. It is great to be used by those who suffer from asthma and seasonal allergies.

When the flame reaches the clip, the candle was specially designed to extinguish itself. Therefore, this product is rather safe.

 

Cons

When it comes to its price, this option is a bit more expensive than other alternatives. Still, it has a very nice design and it was made of natural materials.

The model might not burn for as many hours as the manufacturer advertises. This depends on the environment in which you burn it.

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3. Repel Insect Repellent Citronella Candle 

 

This candle is perfect for outdoor use and it is meant to be used as a patio and deck mosquito and insect repellent. This is possible because the model was made with real citronella oil. Because it weighs 20 ounces, one candle can be burned for around 40 hours.

Besides, this choice comes in a convenient and sturdy green container that is made of metal. The candle is portable and you can take it with you whenever you go camping and you want to keep insects away. It is recommended that you do not use this candle indoors.

For the best results, you should store it in a dry and cool space. Instructions on how to dispose of the product are supplied by the seller. To create a larger area of protection against insects, you should use more than one candle. You should also trim the three wicks often to prevent any accidents.

 

Pros

This model is perfect to be used outdoors. You can install it on your deck or patio, and you can also take it with you when you go camping or hiking.

It was made using real citronella oil and thus, it is efficient at keeping mosquitoes as well as other unwanted insects away.

The choice is simple to use and it features three wicks. To ensure that the model burns correctly, you have to trim the wicks regularly.

Moreover, this candle weighs 20 ounces in total and it can burn for about 40 hours. It measures 6.1 by 6.1 by 4 inches.

 

Cons

In some cases, the three wicks that this choice features are not spaced equally. Yet, this is not a major drawback that should discourage you from trying it.

The candle might not last as much as the seller argues that it does. This might depend on the environment that you burn it in.

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4. Coleman 70+ Hour Outdoor Candle Lantern 

 

This 6.7 oz. candle is meant to be used outdoors and it can burn for more than 70 hours, depending on how you use it. It contains citronella oil, which acts as a natural mosquito repellent.

Citronella oil is currently an ingredient that is on the list of minimum risk pesticides made available by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Therefore, you can use this candle for picnics, camping or on your patio to protect yourself from insects.

The cap that the model includes is reusable and it acts as a barrier that protects it from debris and rain. Apart from using it to protect yourself from mosquitoes, the design of this candle makes it perfect to also be used as a camping lantern. It includes a carrying handle so that you can easily transport it around. The handle can also be utilized to hang the candle. When it comes to its size, this option measures 6 by 6 by 8 inches.

 

Pros

This choice includes citronella oil, a natural mosquito repellent that is on the list of substances that can be used to repel insects by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Because this option measures 6 by 6 by 8 inches and it comes with a very practical handle, you will find it easy to carry it with you.

It is recommended that you use this candle outdoors. Depending on how you utilize it, you can burn it for around 70 hours.

The choice comes provided with a special cap that you can remove. The cap protects the product from debris and rain.

 

Cons

If you are not used to the design of the model, you might find it a bit difficult to take off the cap. Instructions are provided.

There are no refills that you can buy once the candle burns completely. This means that you have to buy a new one.

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5. Repel HG-64090 64090 10-Ounce 

 

This alternative can be utilized as a deck and patio insect repellent. This 10-ounce candle can burn for around 20 hours and it can protect you from mosquitoes given that it was made using real citronella oil.

To make it as practical as possible, the manufacturer has designed this item to be as simple to travel with as possible. The candle comes in a silver tin that features a lid that is easy to put on and take off.

You can take the candle with you whenever you go camping or you can simply install it on your porch or deck. To create a stronger and wider barrier against mosquitoes, it might be a good idea to invest in more than one candle. Given that this product can be harmful to humans and pets if ingested, you should keep it away from your kids and pets. Instructions on what to do if ingested are provided.

 

Pros

This model is very convenient to have around, especially if you want to get a candle that you can use when going camping.

It includes a very handy cap that you won’t find it difficult to take off and put on. This way, you can protect the candle from debris.

Because it includes citronella oil, this product is perfect to use to keep mosquitoes and other flying insects away.

The choice weighs 10 ounces and it can burn for up to 20 hours. Clear instructions on how to use it are provided.

 

Cons

The candle might burn a bit faster than the seller advertises. However, it should be added that it all depends on how you use it.

Plus, the smell of the citronella oil that this model gives off is not very strong. Still, the model does its job well and, thus, this should not be a factor that deters you from trying it.

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6. Just Makes Scents Citronella Scented Candle 

 

If you’ve been searching for a citronella candle that you can use indoors, this is the model that you should check out. This product is made using citronella oil, and, as a result, it can repel flying insects such as mosquitoes.

Differently from the other candles that we have talked about before, this candle can be used indoors. This is possible because it was made of a blend of soy wax, a type of wax that does not produce smoke when burnt.

The wick that the candle includes is made of a mix of quality cotton and paper fibers and it does not require constant trimming. It also does not produce a lot of smoke.

Besides, this choice was poured by hand and it comes in an 8 oz. jar. The candle can burn for about 40 hours before you need to replace it. All the products distributed by this manufacturer are homemade made in North Carolina.

 

Pros

This homemade candle can keep the pesky mosquitoes that are bothering you away. This is possible because the model was made using citronella oil.

It was designed to be used indoors and, consequently, it is safe to keep it in your home. It comes in a glass jar and it weighs 8 oz.

Depending on how you burn it, the candle can last for up to 40 hours. It is made of soy wax, a natural kind of wax.

The candlewick that the choice features is made of a mix of paper and cotton fibers. Consequently, the option does not produce smoke while burning.

 

Cons

The size of the candle is rather small. So, if you are interested in a larger candle, you should consider other alternatives.

This model gives away a somewhat powerful smell. If you do not like strong scents, this might not be a suitable product for you.

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7. TIKI Brand Triple-Wick Galvanized Citronella 

 

This three-wick alternative comes in a galvanized bucket that will look great on your patio or by the pool. Given its size, it can burn for no less than 32 hours before you need to replace it. Because the bucket is made of rust-resistant metal, you do not have to worry that it will get damaged because of the elements.

On top of that, this candle comes provided with a plastic lid that you can use when storing it in between uses. The choice was made using citronella oil and it can protect you from insects such as mosquitoes.

The model has a very stylish and shiny design that makes it look very nice in any décor. So, you don’t have to worry that the candle will mess with the overall aesthetic of your backyard. The triple wick that it includes ensures that the model will burn for a long time.

 

Pros

This 28-ounce candle stands out from the other alternatives because it has a beautiful design that will surely catch your attention.

Because it features no less than 3 wicks, you can rest assured knowing that it will burn evenly at all times.

The product is made using citronella oil and, thus, it will protect you from mosquitoes as well as from other similar insects that might bother you.

It was designed to be used outdoors and it can burn for about 32 hours before you have to purchase a new one.

 

Cons

The candle produces a bit of smoke while burning. This can prove somewhat bothersome, especially if you burn it close to where you are staying.

It should be added that this option is not as scented as other candles that you can find for sale. Still, it should be pointed out that it performs as expected.

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8. Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito Repellent Candle 

 

This fancy-looking option is made using essential oils and, as a result, it can protect you from insects such as mosquitoes. The candle includes a mix of peppermint, rosemary, cedar, citronella and cedarwood oils that are effective against such insects.

Because of the size of this candle, it can burn for up to 30 hours. The scent that it emits is light and refreshing and, thus, it will not cause you any type of discomfort. All the candles made and sold by this manufacturer are manufactured in the USA using responsibly sourced ingredients.

This is an outdoor candle and, thus, it is suitable to use it when you go out for a picnic or a camping trip. If necessary, you can also safely install it on your porch. This product features a cotton wick and it comes in a tin that is 100% recyclable. It measures 4.5 by 4.3 by 3.7 inches.

 

Pros

This option is made using a combination of responsibly sourced ingredients such as cedar, peppermint, citronella, cedarwood and rosemary oil.

It can burn for up to 30 hours and it can provide you with protection against mosquitoes and other insects.

This candle is meant to be utilized outdoors. It features a wick made of cotton and it is suitable to be used at picnics or when you go camping.

Given that it comes in a special tin that is recyclable, it could be argued that this product is eco-friendly.

 

Cons

The scent of the candle is not very strong. This is not necessarily a disadvantage, especially if you are not a big fan of heavy scents.

Given the size and the burning time of this model, it could be argued that this candle is rather expensive. So, if you are on a strict budget, you should consider other products as well.

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9. YIH Citronella Candles 8-pack 

 

If you like pack deals, this is a product that you should add to your shortlist. The choice consists of no less than 8 two ounces candles that you can install both indoors and outdoors to deal with a mosquito problem. The candles can burn for 12 to 15 hours.

On top of that, all the candles included in the deal are made using citronella oil, an ingredient that can help repel insects. Besides, because the candles are smokeless, they can be safely installed in your home.

Size-wise, each candle included in the price measures 2.5 by 1.8 by 1.6 inches and it does not drip. This way, you do not have to worry that you will damage your home in any way. You can use them as a decoration piece in your home and yard, especially given that they come in beautiful metal buckets. The product is made using safe, non-toxic materials.

 

Pros

This product consists of eight candles that weigh 2 oz. each. They can burn for 12 to 15 hours and they can protect you from mosquitoes.

All the candles are made using safe, non-toxic materials and they create no smoke while burning. So, they won’t cause you any discomfort.

Each item comes in a metal box that is recyclable and that looks great, no matter the design of your home or garden.

Even more importantly, because they are made of quality materials, these candles are safe to use both indoors and outdoors.

 

Cons

The burning time might differ, depending on how you decide to use the product. This does not affect the effectiveness of the candles.

The candles included in the deal are rather small. Still, all in all, this is not an aspect that should discourage you from trying them, especially given that the product consists of 8 of them.

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10. Cutter Scented Citronella Outdoor Candle 

 

This 11-ounce citronella scented candle can burn for 30 hours. Consequently, it can keep you protected from mosquitoes for a while before you need to invest in a replacement. It was made using real citronella oil.

Apart from its effectiveness against mosquitoes, this option also stands out because of its design. The decorative container that the candle is placed in can enhance your patio décor by making it feel and look cozier.

If you like how the candle smells and looks, you should know that the product is also available in other scents such as cedar, lavender or lilac. An unscented option is also available. The product is meant to only be utilized outdoors. To avoid soothing, it is recommended that you trim the wick of the candle regularly.

If the glass container arrives broken, you should refrain from using the candle to avoid any accidents.

 

Pros

This option measures  4 by 4 by 4 inches and it weighs 11 ounces. It was made using citronella oil and it can repel insects such as mosquitoes.

It is available in a wide array of other scents that you can opt for. You can burn it for around 30 hours before it needs to be replaced.

The model comes in a very stylish frosted glass that will look nice, no matter the design of your backyard or your patio.

Besides, this candle gives away a strong scent that will surely keep the mosquitoes that are bothering you away.

 

Cons

This candle cannot be used indoors because of the smoke that it produces. If you want a model that is suitable for indoor use, look for other counterparts.

The glass container is prone to break if mishandled. This has nothing to do with the overall quality of the product.

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Our Comprehensive Buying Guide

 

Shopping for the best citronella candles for the money can be rather challenging, especially if you are not familiar with the features that are considered important in an item of this sort. So, if you need help buying quality affordable citronella candles, this following buying guide can help you out.

Burn time 

No matter if you buy small or large citronella candles, one of the first aspects that you should consider is the burn time of the product. If you are interested in getting a candle that can protect you for a long time, you should opt for one that lasts for more than 50 hours.

Of course, the pace at which cutter citronella candles burn depends greatly on the type of wax that was used to make them, the number of wicks as well as the conditions in which you burn them. To come to your rescue, numerous manufacturers provide their customers with detailed info regarding how long the candles that they sell can burn for.

If you want, you can also purchase small citronella candles that do not last as long. These options are better suited for those who need a product that is better for short-time use. For instance, you can use more compact and cheap citronella candles for hiking and camping trips.

 

The fragrance 

If you have read a citronella candle review before, you probably already know that the smell of a product of this kind is also important to have in mind before you make a decision.

If you are not a big fan of heavily scented models, you should consider getting decorative citronella candles that have a less strong scent. To be sure that the item that you like suits your needs perfectly, be sure to take a close look at citronella candle reviews. You can also benefit from reading the comments left by other buyers.

The design

When it comes to the design of a product of this type, the first thing that you should not neglect is how you intend to use the said candle. For instance, if you want to buy outdoor citronella candles, it is better that you invest in models that were specially designed to be installed on one’s porch or deck.

However, if you want to use your newly purchased citronella candles indoors, it is advisable that you get a product that is considered safe to be used inside the home. The main reason why many of the options that you can find for sale are not safe for indoor use has a lot to do with the materials that were used to make them.

With this in mind, it should be added that natural citronella candles made of natural wax create less smoke and, thus, are considered safe to be used indoors. No matter if you get a cheap citronella candle or a more expensive alternative, it is not recommended that you utilize the said product in the home if it is not deemed safe for such use.

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions:

 

Q: Do citronella candles really keep mosquitoes away?

Do citronella candles work, you ask.  Well, to answer this question it is important to point out a couple of factors.

Firstly, citronella oil is a natural mosquito repellent. Even more so, the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention lists this type of oil as an insect repellent.

Depending on the concentration of citronella oil that a candle features, a product of this sort can prove effective against mosquitoes. To make sure that you get the results that you need, some manufacturers recommend that you install more than one candle in the area that you want to keep free of mosquitoes.

Secondly, it should be noted that you should not solely rely on citronella candles for protection against mosquitoes, especially if you live in an area where these insects thrive. Instead, you should also opt to invest in other alternative solutions that can keep you protected at all times.

Q: What other bugs does citronella repel?

You should know how to use citronella candles before you buy them. As expected, just like many other plants, citronella can be used to repel other insects, apart from mosquitoes.

However, keep in mind that citronella does not kill these bugs, but that it only repels them. So, if you want a more powerful product that can rid you of your insect problems once and for all, you might want to consider other alternatives.

Some studies indicate that citronella can repel pollinators such as bees. Still, it has no known effect against birds or wildlife in general. According to some research, citronella can prove somewhat toxic to fish and other aquatic organisms.

Citronella oil can, however, prove dangerous to people. In case you come into contact with this oil you might suffer from skin and eye irritation. In some rare cases where prolonged exposure is involved, it can also cause skin allergies.

 

Q: Why do mosquitoes hate citronella?

Now that we know the answer to the question what are citronella candles, and we’ve also covered the topic of how to use them, it can be practical to understand why insects, and especially mosquitoes, hate citronella. Some suggest that citronella works by masking the carbon dioxide as well as the lactic acids emitted by people. This is why sometimes you get bitten even if you use a citronella oil-based candle or cream.

Because they no longer can scent these substances, the mosquitoes find it much more difficult to locate you and to bite you. As we have mentioned before, citronella does not kill insects, it just repels them.

Another popular theory is that mosquitoes simply hate the smell of citrus. Other natural plants that you can successfully use as a mosquito repellent are peppermint, lemongrass, basil, oregano, rosemary, and tansy.

So, if you want to make sure that the candle that you select works, it might be a good idea to also get one that contains a combination of oils.