Summer is upon us, and the great outdoors are calling, but so are those pesky mosquitoes. But fear not, for we have a natural, beautiful, and cost-effective solution to this problem – homemade citronella candles.
Today, we’ll be sharing a straightforward, step-by-step guide to making these wonderfully aromatic and efficient insect repellents. So, gather your supplies, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this exciting natural DIY project together!
Why Citronella Candles?
For centuries, people have been using citronella as a natural insect repellent. Citronella oil, extracted from different species of lemongrass, has a distinct citrusy scent that mosquitoes find unappealing. By incorporating citronella into candles, you not only create a natural barrier against these pests but also add an invigorating aroma to your outdoor space.
Apart from its bug-repelling properties, the citronella candle making process is an easy, fun, and rewarding DIY project.
The end product is not just a functional repellent; it’s also an aesthetic enhancement to your patio, backyard, or any outdoor area. Plus, if you’re a parent, it’s an excellent way to engage kids and teach them about natural remedies in a hands-on manner.
Creating Your Citronella Candles: The Step-by-Step Guide
Check out our step by step instructions below for this super easy natural living craft for summer.
How to Make Your Own DIY Citronella Candles
We are about to delve into a simple yet rewarding DIY project - creating citronella candles.
These easy-to-make candles serve as a natural, aromatic mosquito repellent for your outdoor spaces. In this project, we'll combine citronella oil, slices of lemon, sprigs of rosemary, and water in a glass jar, and top it off with a floating candle.
The result is a beautifully decorative item that also keeps away bothersome insects.
Materials
- 1 Mason Jar or pretty Jar
- 1 floating candle
- 1 sprig of Rosemary
- 1 slice of lemon
- water
- 10-15 drops of citronella essential oils
Instructions
- Fill the Jar with water - Pick a beautiful glass jar that suits your outdoor decor. Fill it almost to the top with water, leaving enough space for the other ingredients.
- Add a slice of lemon and a Rosemary sprig - This step adds an extra layer of freshness to your candle. Lemon and rosemary not only enhance the aroma but also give your citronella candle a visually appealing look.
- Add 10-15 drops of Citronella oil - You can adjust the amount based on the size of the jar and your preference. However, remember that the more drops you add, the stronger the repellent effect will be.
- Place a floating candle on top - Pick a floating candle of a size that fits your jar. Once it's placed on top, your citronella candle is ready to be lit and protect your space from mosquitoes!
- Maintenance - To ensure the efficiency of your candle, replace the lemon and water every 2-3 days. This will ensure that the scent remains strong, and the mosquitoes stay away.
Notes
Total Time: Approximately 20 minutes initially, with minimal upkeep every 2-3 days
With such a minimal time commitment and simple process, this DIY citronella candle project is perfect for those wanting to add a functional yet aesthetic touch to their outdoor gatherings. So let's roll up our sleeves and get started!
There you have it! Your very own DIY citronella candle. Easy, effective, and completely natural.
Supplies
Most of the supplies needed for this natural living craft are household supplies you may already have at home, but if not you can pick them up easily at a local store. We have provided some links below for your convenience if you need to order some of the supplies online (affiliate)
- 1 Mason Jar or pretty Jar
- 1 floating candle
- 1 sprig of Rosemary
- 1 slice of lemon
- Water
- 10-15 drops of citronella essential oils
DIY Citronella Candle FAQ
The citronella candle can last as long as the floating candle you use. Once the candle burns out, simply replace it. However, to maintain the potency of the repellent, replace the lemon and water every 2-3 days.
Absolutely! You can experiment with slices of lime, orange, or even add other aromatic herbs like thyme or basil. The choice is yours.
Citronella oil is widely available. You can find it in local health stores, supermarkets, or online marketplaces like Amazon.
While primarily intended for outdoor use, citronella candles can also be used indoors. However, remember to keep your space well-ventilated as the scent can be quite strong.
You can increase the potency by adding more drops of citronella oil. However, be mindful of the strong scent that comes with increasing quantity. Balance is key.
Citronella is known to repel most insects, including bees. Therefore, your citronella candles should not attract unwanted insects.
And that wraps up our guide to making your own citronella candles. Not only will you enjoy an outdoor experience free of bothersome insects, but you’ll also bask in the satisfaction that comes from creating something beautiful, useful, and natural with your own hands. These simple homemade citronella candles add a fresh, summery scent and a beautiful glow to your surroundings.
Remember, DIY projects are not only about the end product but also about the journey. Enjoy the process, experiment with different ingredients, and most importantly, have fun. Here’s to a mosquito-free, joyful summer!
More Natural Living DIYS
For those of you who have caught the DIY bug and are eager to try out more natural living projects, we have you covered.
Dive into our archives to discover a plethora of enriching DIY crafts for your home, health, and beauty needs. If you loved making our citronella candles, you’re sure to enjoy creating some of the ideas below. Each of these projects is an invitation to embrace a more natural, self-sufficient lifestyle while adding a personal touch to your routine.
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- Rice Water Recipe for Hair Growth (3 Versions)
- DIY Lavender Candles
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The world of essential oils and incense offers endless opportunities to customize your surroundings and personal care routine. Each post is a wealth of knowledge, ready to guide you towards a more serene and aromatic lifestyle.
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Anna is a Wales-based writer and graduate from SOAS University of London.
As the voice behind On Your Journey, she empowers women to embrace holistic well-being and spiritual growth through her expert insights into wellness and symbolism.
When she isn't writing thought-provoking articles, you'll find her busy crafting and raising her 4 children.
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