Welsh Blankets
Citronella Candles
Citronella Candles
As the Spring and Summer approaches, we are often asked about how to keep the bugs away from outdoor entertaining. On this page, we go thorugh our experience with citronella candles and also whether or not they should be used indoors.
Citronella Candles for Outdoors
Citronella candles are popular as outdoor candles that will help to keep bugs away during alfresco outdoor family meals.Citronella candles are a non-toxic type of outdoor candle, known for their unique fragrance and insect-repellent properties.
In these days of chemical and spray type repellents, citronella candles are a natural option to repel flies and insects. 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, we suggest to place a citronella candle every two metres (six feet apart) for optimum bug repellent. To maximize the effectiveness of citronella candles, we recommend placing multiple candles around the perimeter of the area to be protected. Keeping them lit continuously and ensue proper ventilation for even distribution of the scent.
Citronella Candle 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 there is an element of personal preference to the question, is it safe or a good idea to burn citronella candles indoors. Not everybody will agree with us but our experience and recommendation is not to burn these candles indoors due to the smokiness - they really are designed to be burned outdoors.
Problems Burning Citronella Candles Inside
Citronella candles are generally designed for outdoor use, especially in areas where there may be mosquitoes or other flying insects. Burning them indoors is not be the best idea due to several reasons:
- Ventilation: Indoor spaces are usually less ventilated than outdoor areas. Burning citronella candles indoors can lead to a build up of smoke and potentially cause respiratory irritation.
- Size of the Space: Citronella candles are typically effective in repelling insects within a limited area. In larger indoor spaces, they may not be as effective, and the concentration of citronella may not be sufficient to have the desired effect.
- Soot and Residue: Burning candles indoors can produce soot and residue that may settle on surfaces, walls, and furniture. This can be challenging to clean and may leave a mess.
- Fire Safety: Burning candles indoors always carries some fire risk. It's important to follow safety guidelines, keep an eye on the candles, and place them away from flammable materials.
If you want to repel insects indoors, there are alternative methods that may be more suitable, such as using indoor insect repellent sprays, electric insect repellent devices, or screens on windows and doors. Always follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer for any product you choose to use indoors.
FelinFach Candles, Diffusers and Accessories
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 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.
- Hand dyed yarn, dyed with natural dyes only - no exceptions!
- Handmade candles, candle accessories, Candle Making Workshops and soapery.
- Natural Dyeing Craft courses.
- Yarn shop, 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 Americymru, the Campaign for Wool, Global Welsh and Red Dragon America.
Last updated 14th July 2024
