Citronella scented candles work effectively to repel mosquitoes and insects

Citronella candles contain the active ingredient citronella oil. This essential oil comes from the stems and leaves of a perennial grass called Cymbopogon nardus. Citronella oil is an all-natural product used as an insect repellant (as it has been for more than half a century, notes the EPA), providing a safer alternative to chemical bug repellants. This oil is only a repellant, not an insecticide; it doesn’t kill or otherwise harm bugs. It is effective against a wide variety of pests, including but not limited to flies, mosquitoes, and ticks. Its distinctive odor drives away some insects, while preventing others from identifying a host.

Candles made of Citronella oil work effectively to repel mosquitoes and insects when burned in the immediate area.   The scent of the citronella oil in the tea light candles when heated releases the odors into the air and acts as a smoke screen to disguise the human scent as a host to the insects. In order for the citronella tea light candles to be an effective insect repellent for an outside event, the tea light candles must be burned in and around the perimeter of the area you what to be insect free.  It is also important to light the citronella tea light candles and keep them burning during the entire event.

The best part of the effect of citronella tealight candles is that the benefit is twofold.  You can have the natural effects of insect repellent and the natural beauty of lit candles.  Tea light candles have many wonderful holders that can be strategically placed around the area very easily and create beautiful ambiance.   You want to make sure that you cover the entire area for both repellent benefits and for accent lighting.  Don’t be afraid to overdo it, the natural lemony scent of the tea light candles will provide a wonderful fresh scent.

Candles made of citronella oil work wonderfully as a natural, chemical-free option for insect repellent.   You can add a beautiful ambiance to your next outdoor event by placing tealight candles made of citronella all around your patio, deck or yard.