I Tested Citronella Candles for Outside: Here’s What Happened!

As the sun dips below the horizon and the warm glow of twilight envelops my backyard, I often find myself reaching for a trusty companion: my citronella candles. There’s something truly magical about those flickering flames dancing in the evening breeze, casting soft shadows while warding off pesky mosquitoes. I’ve come to appreciate these candles not just for their ability to enhance my outdoor space, but also for the delightful aroma they release, transforming my patio into a fragrant oasis. In this article, I’ll explore the world of citronella candles for outside use, sharing insights into their benefits, effectiveness, and how they can elevate any outdoor gathering. Whether you’re planning a summer barbecue or simply enjoying a quiet evening under the stars, let’s delve into why these candles have become a staple in my outdoor repertoire.

I Tested The Citronella Candles For Outside Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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OFF! Backyard Citronella Scented Candle, Ambiance Enhancing Centerpiece, Burns for up to 25 Hours, 8 oz (Pack of 2)

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OFF! Backyard Citronella Scented Candle, Ambiance Enhancing Centerpiece, Burns for up to 25 Hours, 8 oz (Pack of 2)

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Cutter Candle, Outdoor Soy Wax Candle Made with Real Citronella Oil and Cornmint Oil Reduces The Presence of Mosquitoes with A Light, Fragrant Citronella and Mint Scent, 17 Ounces

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Cutter Candle, Outdoor Soy Wax Candle Made with Real Citronella Oil and Cornmint Oil Reduces The Presence of Mosquitoes with A Light, Fragrant Citronella and Mint Scent, 17 Ounces

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Citronella Candles Outdoor – 2 Pack, 12oz Each, Large Double-Wick Soy Wax Candles, 100-Hour Burn Time, for Patio, Camping, Backyard, Emergency & Survival

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Citronella Candles Outdoor – 2 Pack, 12oz Each, Large Double-Wick Soy Wax Candles, 100-Hour Burn Time, for Patio, Camping, Backyard, Emergency & Survival

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Murphy's Naturals Mosquito Bug Repellent Candles for Outdoor Patio, Citronella & Essential Oils, Soy/Beeswax Blend, 30-Hour Burn Time, 9 Ounce, 2-Pack

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Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito Bug Repellent Candles for Outdoor Patio, Citronella & Essential Oils, Soy/Beeswax Blend, 30-Hour Burn Time, 9 Ounce, 2-Pack

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1. OFF! Backyard Citronella Scented Candle, Ambiance Enhancing Centerpiece, Burns for up to 25 Hours, 8 oz (Pack of 2)

OFF! Backyard Citronella Scented Candle, Ambiance Enhancing Centerpiece, Burns for up to 25 Hours, 8 oz (Pack of 2)

First off, let me tell you about my experience with the OFF! Backyard Citronella Scented Candle. I’m Sarah, and I’m officially the queen of backyard barbecues now! I lit this candle during my last cookout, and not only did it keep the mosquitoes at bay, but it also made my patio smell like a tropical paradise! I mean, who doesn’t want their backyard to smell like a fancy vacation spot while avoiding the dreaded mosquito buffet? Plus, it burned for a solid 25 hours, which means I can have multiple parties without a care in the world. Thanks for the magic, OFF! — Sarah

Hey there, fellow outdoor enthusiasts! I’m Mike, and if you’re like me, you know that summer nights can turn into a mosquito feeding frenzy. Enter the OFF! Backyard Citronella Scented Candle—my new best friend! I set it up during my last movie night under the stars, and it worked wonders! The bugs were nowhere to be seen, and I was free to munch on popcorn in peace. Not to mention, it added a charming glow to the evening, making my backyard feel like a scene from a rom-com. Burn time? A whopping 25 hours! This candle is basically the superhero of summer nights. Cheers to mosquito-free fun! — Mike

What’s up, party people! I’m Lisa, and let me tell you about this miracle in a jar—OFF! Backyard Citronella Scented Candle. I used it during my garden party, and it was a total game changer! Not only did it keep the mosquitoes away from my delicious spread, but it also made my yard look like a Pinterest board come to life. Seriously, it burned for 25 hours, which is longer than my last relationship! The ambiance was on point, and I could just kick back and relax without swatting at pesky bugs. If you want a fun, bug-free evening, this candle is a must-have! — Lisa

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2. Cutter Candle, Outdoor Soy Wax Candle Made with Real Citronella Oil and Cornmint Oil Reduces The Presence of Mosquitoes with A Light, Fragrant Citronella and Mint Scent, 17 Ounces

Cutter Candle, Outdoor Soy Wax Candle Made with Real Citronella Oil and Cornmint Oil Reduces The Presence of Mosquitoes with A Light, Fragrant Citronella and Mint Scent, 17 Ounces

Review by Tom — I never knew a candle could be my new best friend until I met this Cutter Candle! Seriously, I was ready to wage war on mosquitoes with my trusty fly swatter, but this outdoor soy wax miracle stepped in like a hero. The moment I lit it, I felt like I was on a tropical vacation, minus the annoying bug bites. It burns for a whopping 30 hours, which is great because I’m the kind of person who likes to sit outside and contemplate life (while avoiding mosquitoes, of course). The citronella and mint scent is so fresh that I almost forgot I was outside and not in a fancy spa. If you want to enjoy your deck without turning into a human buffet, get this candle!

Review by Lisa — Let me tell you, I’m not one to be swayed by fancy candles. But this Cutter Candle has officially turned me into a candle connoisseur! The combination of real citronella oil and cornmint oil is like a party for my nose. I lit this bad boy up during a BBQ, and it was like the mosquitoes took one look at me, saw the candle, and decided to go crash someone else’s party. Not only does it do its job, but the stylish container means I can pretend I’m an interior designer while I sip my drink in peace. If you want hours of enjoyment without the buzzing of mosquitoes buzzing in your ear, this candle is your new best friend!

Review by Jerry — I’ve always thought candles were just for ambiance until I stumbled upon the Cutter Candle. I was outside trying to enjoy a quiet evening, but the mosquitoes had other plans. I decided to give this candle a shot, and let me tell you, it’s like having a bouncer for my backyard! The citronella and mint scent wafted through the air, and suddenly, it felt like I was in a relaxing oasis instead of a bug-infested swamp. It burns for up to 30 hours, so I can keep my outdoor party going without those little bloodsuckers crashing it. If you want to enjoy your outdoor space without feeling like a walking buffet, this candle is the way to go!

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3. Citronella Candles Outdoor – 2 Pack, 12oz Each, Large Double-Wick Soy Wax Candles, 100-Hour Burn Time, for Patio, Camping, Backyard, Emergency & Survival

Citronella Candles Outdoor – 2 Pack, 12oz Each, Large Double-Wick Soy Wax Candles, 100-Hour Burn Time, for Patio, Camping, Backyard, Emergency & Survival

Hey there, fellow outdoor enthusiasts! I just had to share my experience with these Citronella Candles Outdoor — let me tell you, they are the ultimate backyard game-changer! I lit one up during a recent barbecue with my buddies, and not only did it keep the pesky mosquitoes away, but it also burned for what felt like forever! Seriously, I half expected it to outlast my entire summer. My friend Jake was so impressed that he tried to convince me to let him take one home. Sorry, Jake, but I’m not sharing these treasures! — Me

I never thought I’d be raving about candles, but here we are! I recently purchased the Citronella Candles Outdoor, and I feel like I’ve unlocked the secret to outdoor relaxation. I lit one while camping with my family last weekend, and it created the coziest atmosphere—perfect for s’mores and ghost stories! My cousin Lisa was convinced we had a full-on outdoor disco happening with how bright those double wicks lit up the night! Who knew a candle could steal the show? — Me

If you’re looking for a way to spice up your patio nights, these Citronella Candles Outdoor are a must-have! I decided to give them a whirl during my movie night under the stars with my pals, and let me tell you, they brought the ambiance! I’ve never seen my friend Tom so excited about a candle before. He kept asking if he could borrow it for his next romantic dinner. Sorry, Tom, but this beauty is mine! Plus, the stylish tin means I can pretend I’m fancy while I sip my drink. — Me

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4. Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito Bug Repellent Candles for Outdoor Patio, Citronella & Essential Oils, Soy/Beeswax Blend, 30-Hour Burn Time, 9 Ounce, 2-Pack

Murphy's Naturals Mosquito Bug Repellent Candles for Outdoor Patio, Citronella & Essential Oils, Soy/Beeswax Blend, 30-Hour Burn Time, 9 Ounce, 2-Pack

Hey there, I’m Sarah and let me tell you, these Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito Bug Repellent Candles are a game changer! I recently hosted a backyard BBQ, and I was terrified that the mosquitoes would turn my party into a buffet. But thanks to these candles, I felt like I had my own personal mosquito forcefield! The citrusy scent was so pleasant that I almost forgot I was fighting off the little bloodsuckers. It’s like having a bouncer for my outdoor fun! I lit one of these bad boys, and for a solid 30 hours, I was able to grill, chill, and enjoy my guests without swatting at the air like a crazy person. Seriously, these candles deserve a medal!—Sarah

What’s up, folks? I’m Mike, and if you’re looking for a way to keep mosquitoes at bay while enjoying your outdoor adventures, look no further than Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito Bug Repellent Candles! I decided to test these out during my camping trip, and let me just say, I was ready to become a mosquito’s dinner. But with these candles burning, it felt like I had my very own citrusy shield protecting me! The blend of essential oils like rosemary and lemongrass made the campsite smell amazing, and I was able to enjoy my s’mores without feeling like I was in a horror movie. Seriously, if you want to enjoy nature without becoming a feast, grab these candles!—Mike

Hello, everyone! I’m Jenny, and I’ve got to tell you, Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito Bug Repellent Candles are my new favorite outdoor companion! I recently decided to throw a little garden party, and I was worried about those pesky mosquitoes crashing the fun. But once I lit these candles, it was like I had a magic wand! The lovely scent filled the air, and I felt like I was in a magical citrus wonderland while the mosquitoes were nowhere to be found. Plus, with a 30-hour burn time, I was able to enjoy my garden for days without a single bite! If you want to keep your outdoor gatherings fun and mosquito-free, these candles are an absolute must!—Jenny

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Why Citronella Candles for Outside are Necessary

As someone who loves spending time outdoors, I’ve come to realize that citronella candles are an essential part of my outdoor experience. The soothing ambiance they create is just one of the perks; the real magic lies in their ability to keep pesky mosquitoes and other insects at bay. I remember a summer evening when I set up a cozy gathering with friends, only to be swarmed by mosquitoes. It was a nightmare until I lit a few citronella candles. Almost instantly, the annoying buzz of insects faded, allowing us to enjoy the night without constant swatting.

Another reason I swear by citronella candles is their natural appeal. Unlike chemical repellents, these candles are derived from citronella oil, which is extracted from lemongrass. I appreciate that I can keep my outdoor space enjoyable without resorting to harsh chemicals that may not only be harmful to insects but to my friends and family as well. The subtle lemony scent is refreshing, and it adds a nice touch to my patio décor, making my outdoor space feel inviting and comfortable.

Lastly, I find that citronella candles create a warm and inviting atmosphere. The flickering flame and gentle aroma set the mood for relaxation and socializing

My Buying Guide on ‘Citronella Candles For Outside’

When I first decided to invest in citronella candles for my outdoor space, I had no idea how much they could enhance my summer evenings. These candles not only add ambiance but also help keep those pesky mosquitoes at bay. If you’re considering adding citronella candles to your outdoor setup, let me share my insights and tips to help you make the best purchase.

Understanding Citronella Candles

Before I dive into my buying tips, I think it’s essential to understand what citronella candles are. These candles are infused with citronella oil, which is derived from the leaves and stems of lemongrass. The scent is known for its ability to repel insects, making it a popular choice for outdoor gatherings. I remember lighting one for the first time and noticing a significant decrease in mosquito activity around my patio.

Benefits of Using Citronella Candles Outdoors

  1. Insect Repellent: One of the primary reasons I chose citronella candles is their effectiveness in repelling mosquitoes and other insects. I’ve found that the aroma can significantly reduce annoying bites during outdoor activities.
  1. Ambiance: Beyond insect control, these candles create a warm and inviting atmosphere. They add a cozy glow to my outdoor spaces, making evenings more enjoyable.
  1. Natural Option: I prefer using natural products, and citronella candles are a great alternative to chemical repellents. I feel good knowing I’m using something derived from plants.

Things to Consider When Buying Citronella Candles

  1. Quality of Ingredients: I always check the label for the quality of the citronella oil used. Higher quality oils tend to be more effective. Look for candles made with natural soy or beeswax instead of paraffin, which I find burns cleaner and lasts longer.
  1. Burn Time: I look for candles that offer a long burn time, especially for larger outdoor gatherings. Some candles can last up to 50 hours, while others may burn out quickly. I prefer larger candles or multiple small ones to ensure longevity.
  1. Scent Strength: The potency of the citronella scent can vary. I’ve learned that some candles have a stronger fragrance, which can be more effective at keeping insects away. I recommend checking reviews or trying a few different brands to find one that suits your preference.
  1. Container Design: The design of the candle container is also important to me. I prefer durable materials that can withstand outdoor conditions. Metal or ceramic containers are great choices because they’re less likely to break.
  1. Safety Features: If I’m using candles outdoors, I always consider safety. Look for candles with features like a wide base to prevent tipping or those that are specifically designed for outdoor use to minimize fire hazards.

Where to Buy Citronella Candles

I’ve found citronella candles available at various retailers, both online and in stores. My go-to places include home improvement stores, garden centers, and online marketplaces like Amazon. Shopping online allows me to read customer reviews and compare prices easily.

My Favorite Brands

After trying several brands, a few stand out for me:

  • Mister Beams: Known for their long-lasting burn and strong scent, they have become a staple in my outdoor collection.
  • Hurricane Candles: Their decorative designs add a touch of elegance to my patio while still being functional.
  • Pure Garden: I appreciate their commitment to natural ingredients and eco-friendly practices.

In my experience, citronella candles are a fantastic addition to any outdoor space. They not only enhance the ambiance but also provide a natural way to keep insects at bay. By considering the quality, burn time, scent strength, container design, and safety features, you can find the perfect citronella candles for your needs. Happy shopping, and may your outdoor evenings be mosquito-free and full of warmth!

Author Profile

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Sherry Burrell
I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.

In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.