The following are the best citronella candles to use this summer. The Cutter Citro Guard Triple Wick Candle is a top pick for several reasons. Not only does it have a large triple-wick design that will burn longer and cover a larger area, but it’s also attractive and affordable. Each candle is 20 ounces and can burn for up to 40 hours, and they’re made with real citronella oil for optimal results. These citronella candles have a wide, stable base to prevent tipping, and the high sides help to prevent the flame from being extinguished on windy days. The container has an attractive copper finish that gives it a more decorative look, and the candles are budget-friendly enough that you can easily purchase several to cover a larger area. The smell of the candle is pleasant as well, but it can be a little overwhelming if you sit too close to it. Price at time of publish: $76 The Coleman citronella candles have a wooden wick that crackles pleasantly when burning, and each one burns for around 25 hours. They’re lightweight and easy to use, and when you’ve burned through the candle, the eco-friendly tin containers can be recycled. Price at time of publish: $17 These candles come in a plain green container with a wide base to prevent tipping, and they even have a small handle that makes them easier to move around. The three wicks ensure a more even burn, and for best results, you’ll want to place several of the candles around the perimeter of your outdoor living area. Price at time of publish: $7 Not only is the lantern attractive, but it also comes with a cover that lets you protect the candle from the elements. The only downside is that the brand doesn’t sell replacement candles for the lantern, so you’re not able to refill the container once the wax burns down. Price at time of publish: $17 These candles contain 3 percent citronella oil to deter insects, and each one can burn for up to 50 hours. They come with plastic lids to protect the wax when not in use, and the sturdy design of the bucket helps to reduce the risk of the candles tipping over. Price at time of publish: $6 These tea lights come in a pack of 16, and they’re handy for bringing out to a picnic or camping thanks to their compact size. The scent is designed to be refreshing and not overpowering, and each of the small candles will burn for up to four hours. Price at time of publish: $14 Each of these 9-ounce candles can be burned for around 30 hours. And they’re made right here in the United States, so you can feel good about supporting a domestic company. Plus, the citrusy blend of oils smells light and refreshing, so you won’t even mind having it burning on your patio. Price at time of publish: $24
Scent
Some people prefer the scent of straight-up citronella, while others like something a bit more subdued or one that’s infused with other scents as well. There is a wide variety to choose from, and your choice will likely depend primarily on your individual preference.
Effectiveness
Of course, the most important quality you want in citronella candles is for them to keep bugs at bay. Consider how potent candles are as well as how long they’ll burn. You should also factor in where you’ll be using the candles and the concentration of the bugs in that area to choose the best ones for you. For example, if you live in a city and have a small patio, smaller candles that are less potent might do the trick. However, if you’re planning a week-long camping trip in the woods, opt for a larger candle with more potency.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was researched and written by Camryn Rabideau, who is a freelance writer for The Spruce. She lives in the country and is particularly sensitive to bug bites, and she frequently uses Cutter insect-repellent products to ward off mosquitoes during the summer. Additional reporting was done by Melissa Epifano, a news writer for The Spruce who covers trends, decor, and design topics with a deep appreciation for all things interiors and exteriors.
