Why Citronella Oil Candles Are Essential For Summer

• The presence of mosquitoes round your private home or patio can fast make a non peaceful nighttime unappealing.
  
  
• The use of chemical repellents like DEET has remained unchanged for quite a few time.
  
  
• Citronella vital oil is a natural alternative for candles. Why?
  
  
• The trend is gaining popularity, and for good reason.
  
  
• Derived from lemongrass, citronella vital oil
  
  
• Known for its specific citrus fragrance and bug repelling properties.
  
  
• Regardless of the method you choose for making candles at home or buying them in bulk, understanding their properties is important.
  
  

Key Factors:

• Science, benefits, protection
  
  
• Best practices
  
  

Citronella candles are essential for promoting both comfort and health.

The following is our summary of the essentials you need to know about citronella oil for candles.
It features information on its effectiveness, health implications, comparison to DEET as a solvent alternative, and safety concerns for use with children and pets.

What’s Citronella Essential Oil?

• Various types of lemongrass, including citronella vital oil, are used for steam-distilled extraction from their leaves and stems.
  
  
• Cymbopogon nardus and Cymbopogon winterianus
  
  
• It’s known for its sharp lemony fragrance.
  
  
• Among the popular uses of this product are in perfume, aromatherapy, and insect repellent.
  
  

Key Components:

• Citronellal
  
  
• Geraniol
  
  
• Citronellol
  
  

These compounds have insect-repelling properties, causing mosquitoes to struggle detecting human presence by disrupting their own senses.

How Effective Are Citronella Candles Compared to Other Mosquito Repellents?

• Citronella candles are a relatively effective method of mosquito deterrent.
  
  
• Popular natural solutions.
  
  
• Can you provide a comparison of the numbers?
  
  

Research & Statistics:

• A study published in the Journal of American Mosquito Control Association showed that:
  
  
  • The use of citronella candles is associated with a 42% reduction in mosquito bites.
    
    
  • In comparison, 80–100% effectiveness was achieved by DEET-based insect repellents.
    
    
  • The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) deems citronella safe and effective when used according to instructions.
    
    

Pros of Citronella Candles:

• Non-toxic and plant-based
  
  
• Adds ambiance to outdoor spaces
  
  
• Easy and affordable to make or purchase
  
  

Limitations:

• Less effective in windy environments
  
  
• Needs to be used in close proximity
  
  
• Shorter protection time (about 2 hours)
  
  

🟢 Expert Tip:
To maximize effectiveness, light several citronella candles in a small outdoor area.

Can Citronella Candles Be Used Indoors Without Health Risks?

• Citronella oil is generally safe to burn indoors, but caution is advised.
  
  

Potential Concerns:

• Respiratory irritation – Exposure to the fragrance can be irritating, especially for sensitive individuals.
  
  
• Allergic reactions – Though rare, skin or fragrance allergies can still occur.
  
  
• Soot & indoor air quality – Burning candles in poorly ventilated areas can release particulates, leading to poor air quality.
  
  

Safe Indoor Usage Tips:

• Burn candles in well-ventilated spaces
  
  
• Limit burning time to 1–2 hours
  
  
• Avoid placing near fans, curtains, or air vents
  
  

🔔 Checklist: Safe Indoor Use

• Relieve soot by using a base made of beeswax or soy oil
  
  
• Trim wicks to ¼ inch
  
  
• Set candles on heat-resistant surfaces
  
  
• Never leave unattended
  
  

What Are the Recommended Guidelines for Using Citronella Oil in Candle Making?

• DIY enthusiasts: Making citronella candles at home is both fun and functional.
  
  
• However, there is a proper method to follow.
  
  

Step-by-Step Guide:

Materials:

• Soy wax or beeswax
  
  
• Citronella vital oil (high-quality, natural)
  
  
• Wicks (cotton or wood)
  
  
• Heat-safe containers
  
  
• Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
  
  

Instructions:

1. Melt the wax
   
   
2. Let the wax cool to about 130°F (54°C)
   
   
3. Add 30–40 drops of citronella vital oil per 8 ounces of wax
   
   
4. Insert wick into container and pour the wax carefully
   
   
5. Let it cool for 24 hours before use
   
   

🧠 Pro Tip:
Combine citronella with other insect repellents (e.g., lemongrass, eucalyptus, or lavender) for enhanced effects and fragrance.

Are Citronella Candles Safe for Pets and Children?

• Families are understandably concerned about this major issue.
  
  

Pets:

• Cats – Sensitive to essential oils. GI upset or respiratory distress may occur if citronella is inhaled or licked.
  
  
• Dogs – Generally more tolerant than cats, but ingestion can still be harmful.
  
  

🟡 Caution:
Keep away from pets that may lick candles or be exposed to citronella in close proximity.

Children:

• Keep candles out of reach to avoid burns or accidental ingestion
  
  
• Place them at a safe distance to prevent direct inhalation
  
  

👍 Safe Practice Tip:
Use citronella candles in outdoor settings or screened porches, and keep them away from cribs, playpens, and pet beds.

How Does Citronella Oil Compare to DEET in Effectiveness and Safety?

• Mosquitoes are commonly repelled by both DEET and citronella.
  
  
• Here is a comparative breakdown:
  
  

✅ Verdict:
For short-term, non-commercial use (e.g., a garden party),
citronella is a safer and more pleasant alternative.
For longer outdoor activities like hiking or camping,
DEET provides stronger, longer-lasting protection.

Why Choose Janvi Herbs’ Citronella Essential Oil?

• We at Janvi Herbs take pride in our products.
  
  
• Our 100% pure citronella essential oil is steam-distilled and free from harmful additives, responsibly sourced.
  
  

Key Features:

• Therapeutic-grade quality
  
  
• Non-GMO and cruelty-free
  
  
• Ideal for candles, diffusers, and topical blends
  
  

Conclusion: Light Up with Confidence

Citronella essential oil candles offer a natural, fragrant, and effective way to ward off mosquitoes—especially in outdoor settings.
While not as long-lasting as DEET, they shine in safety, scent, and sustainability.
With the right precautions and high-quality oil from Janvi Herbs, you can enjoy a mosquito-free environment that’s safe for your family, pets, and the planet.

🔥 Ready to make your summer nights mosquito-free?
Shop pure Citronella Oil now at Janvi Herbs »