Looking for a natural, non-toxic way to repel mosquitoes and bugs? This DIY Citronella Candle is the perfect solution!

Made with soy wax and citronella essential oil, this candle not only keeps insects at bay but also provides a fresh, lemony scent for your outdoor space.

Whether you’re enjoying a summer evening on the patio or camping under the stars, this homemade candle is an eco-friendly alternative to chemical-based bug repellents.

I have started making my own candles for a few years now and love how easy and cheap it is. I hate going out in the summertime because of all the mosquitos, especially since they seem to love my good smelling blood.

I heard about citronella and the effects it has on bugs, so I used it in my homemade bug spray and it helped tremendously! So I knew making a candle for our outdoor adventures would be incredible too.

Check out my recipe for this DIY citronella candle and why you will want to have one for your outdoor adventures too!

Why Make Your Own Citronella Candle?

Here are some of the benefits of making your own homemade citronella candle:

Non-Toxic & Safe – Free from synthetic fragrances and chemicals.
Eco-Friendly – Soy wax burns cleaner than paraffin wax.
Customizable – Adjust the scent, color, and size to fit your needs.
Cost-Effective – A homemade alternative that’s just as effective as store-bought citronella candles.

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DIY Citronella Candle Recipe

Here is how I made this super easy DIY citronella candle:

Ingredients

1 cup soy wax (included in a candle-making kit)
2 teaspoons citronella essential oil (about 150 drops)
4-ounce glass jar
Candle-making kit (includes wick, wick holder, and wick stickers)

Instructions

In a double boiler or a heat-safe container over medium-low heat, melt the soy wax slowly. Stir occasionally to ensure even melting.

While the wax is melting, place the wick in the center of the candle jar, securing it with a wick holder or wick sticker.

Once the wax is fully melted, remove from heat and let it cool slightly before adding the citronella essential oil. Stir well to evenly distribute the scent.

Carefully pour the melted wax into the glass jar, ensuring the wick stays centered.

Let the candle sit undisturbed until fully hardened. If the candle caves in at the top, melt a little extra wax and pour a thin layer over the surface to smooth it out.

Once fully set, trim the wick to about ¼ inch for an even burn.

me holding up the citronella candle I made

Tips and Tricks

While citronella is the most effective, you can also add lemongrass, eucalyptus, lavender, or peppermint for a stronger bug-repelling blend.
Add some wax dyes to create colorful candles.
Let the candle cure for 24 hours before burning for the best fragrance release. I’ve also found adding a little bit of coconut oil to the candle helps as well! Check out more ways to help your DIY candles have a stronger scent.
For best mosquito-repelling effects, place multiple candles around your patio, porch, or campsite.

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Citronella Candle

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Materials

1 cup soy wax (or beeswax)
2 teaspoon citronella essential oil (around 150ish drops)
4 ounce glass jar
Candle making kit

Instructions

Melt the soy wax on medium low heat on the stove.
While it is melting, add the wick to the bottom of the candle jar.
Once it is all melted, let it cool slightly, before adding in your essential oils.
Pour the melted wax into the glass jar and allow to harden.
If it caves in once melted, melt a bit more wax and pour on top.
Trim the wick and it is ready to go!

Notes

You can add color waxes if you want to have a colorful candle.

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Final Thoughts

This DIY Citronella Candle is a simple, effective way to naturally keep mosquitoes away while enjoying time outdoors.

Whether you’re relaxing on your patio, hosting a backyard gathering, or going on a camping trip, this candle is a must-have for bug-free summer nights.

Give it a try and see how you like it!