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My dad always had a large, three-wick citronella candle burning while he was outside grilling.
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In fact, I can still smell the distinct citronella scent as I write this.
While citronella is often thought of as a way to repel mosquitos, the method is not foolproof.
(See our four smart tips below to best maximize their use.)
PHOTO: Amazon
We’ve found that they’remoderately effective, but only in the immediate area.
The closer you sit to a candle, the more likely you’ll be free of bites.
Citronella candles arent as long-lasting as your typical household candles.
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Ive even seen some with zero burn before the evening ends.
However, thats not the case with this Cutter triple-wick candle.
We tested this 20-ounce citronella candle with a long burn time of up to 40 hours.
PHOTO: Amazon
Because of its copper construction, this container can be extremely hot to the touch.
Fortunately, this Coleman candle is infused with popular scents like pine, smores, and campfire.
Burn Time:25 hours |Size:6 ounces |Number of Wicks:1 |Weight:0.74 pounds
What bugs do citronella candles repel?
PHOTO: Amazon
Citronella candles are thought to repel mosquitoes, flies, and other flying pests.
Plus, you might always try bug sprays andmosquito traps.
Colemans Color Changing Citronella Candle keeps the bugs away while setting the mood with built-in LED lights.
PHOTO: Crate & Barrel
With a sturdy glass construction and stylish color-changing show, this is our best-lighted display pick.
It has an average burn time of 25 hours.
After looking at a number of citronella candles, we can see they arent always the most aesthetically pleasing.
PHOTO: Amazon
Its by far the most elegant citronella candle weve seen.
However, its burn time is lower than our six and eight-ounce candles, at 24 hours.
While admiring your new outdoor centerpiece, youll also catch a whiff of its fruity and citrusy scent.
PHOTO: Amazon
These 9-ounce candles are said to repel mosquitoes with a 30-hour burn time, all without DEET or pesticides.
Just note that the candles soy and beeswax blend may attract bees.
But that shouldnt be an issue if youre hanging out in the evening.
Plus, they are compact and portable enough to place just about anywhere.
We think this box of 16 tealight candles are like mini versions of our best all-natural pick.
Theyre made with plant-based oils, such as citronella, rosemary, and lemongrass oils.
Plus, you could burn them cleanly with no DEET or harmful pesticides.
TheColeman LED Citronella Scented Candleis our recommended pick for a lighted display.
It comes in a glass vessel with color-changing design lights to impress your guests.
However, the more wicks you have can result in a quicker melt.
The size of the wick can also make a difference in your candles burn.
Note that trimming your wicks may save the scents strength, and keep soot from forming inside the candle.
Youll want to pick a candle with wind-resistant design features, like a candle with protected, high edges.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Kenedee Fowleris a writer for The Spruce.
