DIY Mosquito Repelling Candles For Outside

5 Materials
$2
10 Minutes
Easy

These DIY mosquito repelling candles are the perfect summer project!


If you are dining outside, having a party, or just want to read a book on the porch…these little candles are so great to have by you!


They are also really cute, so they make a wonderful addition to your outdoor space.

Fun fact, I made these candles about six years ago, but I never shared them on the blog! I saw them on a Food Network show, and thought that was such a good idea. I wasn’t sure if people would want to see anything like this way back then. Anyways, I was reminded of them again when we were on vacation. I saw a restaurant had some floating candles. I remembered this DIY and decided to finally share it with you.


You can join us on Instagram for a fun video today too. Here is how to make them.


Ingredients Needed for DIY Mosquito Repelling Candles:

  • Floating Candles (I am using 2 inch)
  • Glass Jars (I am using 8 oz)
  • 25-30 drops Citronella Essential Oil per jar
  • Fresh Lemon Slices
  • Natural Food Coloring (optional)
  • Fresh Lemongrass, Rosemary, or Basil (optional)
  • Water to Fill Jars


icon Please view the blog post link here to learn all about the specific types of items we are using, the science behind how it works, plus any substitutions you can try!

Directions:

  1. Add lemon slice to your jar. I do about 3-4 slices in an 8 oz jar.
  2. If you would like, add in some fresh lemongrass, rosemary, and basil. A little of each for looks and added repellent. For this recipe, I only used lemon which works great too.
  3. Next, fill in with water. Fill so that there is space at the top for a floating candle.
  4. Add in the citronella oil to the top.
  5. You can add some food coloring on the top of these for aesthetic. I am using natural Lemon food coloring to get that pretty yellow look.
  6. Place the floating candle on top.
  7. Light the candles and place around your table.

If you would like another idea to repel mosquitoes then read this guide on how to make citronella candles.

Don't forget to click on the blog post link for more details and science behind each ingredient!

Suggested materials:
  • Floating candles   (online)
  • Citronella essential oil   (online)
  • Glass jars   (online)
See all materials
Alexis @ Chemistry Cachet
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
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Frequently asked questions
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  1 question
  • Krafty Kathy Krafty Kathy on Jun 30, 2021

    These would be great party decor, but can they be reused for several days?

    Basil and lemon smells great but which herbs are really the most effective deterring skeeter.?

    I have patio pots growing rosemary, basil, Mint, lemongrass, lemon balm and lavender all mulched with cedar and we still get bit.

Comments
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 4 comments
  • Talia Talia on Jun 18, 2021

    This is such an incredible idea! I love the fresh smell of citrus and Citronella, plus they are so beautiful to put in the backyard. It is a wonderful alternative to using an anti-bug spray that is usually filled with harsh chemicals. Thanks for sharing!

  • Vicki Sipes Vicki Sipes on Jun 23, 2021

    Thank you so much for sharing your Mosquito Repelling candles for outside!

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