Citronella Candles

Citronella Candles for Outdoors

Citronella candles are a popular non-toxic type of outdoor candle, known for their unique fragrance and insect-repellent properties. In these days of chemical and spray type repellants, citronella candles are a natural option to repel flies and insects and to allow you to enjoy your alfresco summer days and evenings as bug free as possible. Citronella candles contain citronella oil, an essential oil that is extracted from the leaves and stems of the citronella plant (Cymbopogon nardus or Cymbopogon winterianus). Citronella oil has a strong, lemony scent that is effective at repelling mosquitoes and other insects.

Do Citronella Candles Work?

Yes, they help! Citronella candles are made with citronella oil, which has a strong, citrusy smell that is thought to be the main ingredient that repels bugs and other flying insects. When citronella candles are burned, they release the citronella oil into the air, creating a barrier that insects are reluctant to cross. The scent of the citronella oil also masks the carbon dioxide and other chemicals that attract insects, making it harder for them to locate and bite humans. While citronella candles are not 100% effective at repelling insects, they are a useful tool for reducing the number of bites and can help make outdoor activities more enjoyable.

Does Citronella Repel Wasps? 

Citronella candles are a deterrent for wasps as well as other bugs and insects. 

How Many Citronella Candles are Needed?

There is no scientific answer but as a general recommendation, place a citronella candle every two metres (six feet apart) for optimum bug repellent.

Citronella Candles for Indoors?

Citronella candles can be used indoors but there are some points worth understanding.

Firstly, citronella candles are designed for outdoors. Although the lemongrass scents are pleasant, citronella candles tend to have a slightly more smokey burn than ordinary candles. Outdoors this is not a problem but not so great for using indoors. It is also said that pets don't like the smokey scents!

So yes, citronella candles can be burned indoors but do take some precautions to keep your home or rooms well ventilated.

FelinFach, a Modern-Day Candle Chandler

A Candle Chandler? - "a handmade maker and seller of tallow, wax candles, and also usually soap". 

We are a modern-day candle chandler, hand pouring soy wax candles, including citronella candles, using traditional methods and skills but also other fragrance items such as reed diffusers, tealights and wax melts. Our eco-friendly candles are made from sustainable and renewable plant-based candle waxes.

About FelinFach

     

Located in Pembrokeshire Wales, our ethos is defined in the three words...

NATURAL TRADITIONAL HANDMADE.

• Hand woven iconic Welsh blankets and Welsh tapestry blankets.
• Handmade candles, candle accessories, Candle Making Workshops and soapery.
• Natural Dyeing Craft courses.
• Yarn shop, hand dyed yarn, yarn bowls, project bags, tools and accessories for knitters and crafters.
• Welsh Gifts, souvenirs, made in Wales, handmade in Wales.

We are a proud supporter of the Campaign for Wool, All Things Wales, Global Welsh and Red Dragon America.

Last update 19th June 2023