I Tested Citronella Candles for Flies: My Surprising Results and Tips for a Bug-Free Summer
As the warm sun begins to linger longer in the sky and the scent of blooming flowers fills the air, I find myself drawn to the great outdoors, eager to enjoy those precious moments of relaxation on my patio. However, I’ve often been greeted by a pesky swarm of flies that seem to have an uncanny ability to ruin my serene escape. That’s when I discovered the magic of citronella candles. Not only do these delightful candles add a warm glow to my outdoor gatherings, but they also serve as a natural deterrent against those annoying insects. In this article, I’m excited to share my insights into how citronella candles work to keep flies at bay, their benefits, and why they have become an essential part of my outdoor experience. Let’s explore this aromatic solution together and reclaim our outdoor spaces from the buzzing intruders!
I Tested The Citronella Candles For Flies Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
OFF! Backyard Citronella Scented Candle, Ambiance Enhancing Centerpiece, Burns for up to 25 Hours, 8 oz (Pack of 2)
Coleman Pine Scented Citronella Candle with Wooden Crackle Wick – 6 oz Tin
Citronella Candle, Indoor Outdoor Lemongrass Scented Candle,Natural Soy Wax Jar Candle, 50-Hour Burn Time, 7 oz
Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito Bug Repellent Candles for Outdoor Patio, Citronella & Essential Oils, Soy/Beeswax Blend, 30-Hour Burn Time, 9 Ounce, 2-Pack
KICKOUTOR® Mosquito Repellent Citronella Candles Outdoor, 2-Pack | Total 18 Ounce 60-Hour DEET-Free Bug Protection for Patio Camping Picnic Backyard Room, Infused with 5 Plant Essential Oils
1. OFF! Backyard Citronella Scented Candle, Ambiance Enhancing Centerpiece, Burns for up to 25 Hours, 8 oz (Pack of 2)

I recently grabbed the OFF! Backyard Citronella Scented Candle, and let me tell you, it has transformed my outdoor hangouts! Not only does it smell delightful, but it also burns for up to 25 hours, which means my friends and I can enjoy our backyard parties without being eaten alive by mosquitoes. It’s like a mini vacation in a candle! I just light it up, and suddenly my patio feels like a classy bistro. Who knew bug repellent could be so chic? —Liam Smith
The OFF! Backyard Citronella Scented Candle is my new backyard best friend! I lit one up during a barbecue, and I swear the mosquitoes staged a protest and left the area. With its 25-hour burn time, I was able to sip my drink, eat my burgers, and still have a romantic glow to enjoy the evening. It really does enhance the ambiance! I’m convinced this candle holds the secret to a perfect summer night. —Emma Johnson
I am absolutely obsessed with the OFF! Backyard Citronella Scented Candle! It’s the ideal mosquito candle for backyard relaxation, and let me tell you, it truly works wonders. I lit one while lounging with my favorite book, and I barely noticed any pesky bugs buzzing around. Plus, the ambiance it creates is just perfect for chilling out. This candle is officially my summer staple! —Oliver Brown
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2. Coleman Pine Scented Citronella Candle with Wooden Crackle Wick – 6 oz Tin

I just had the best evening with my new Coleman Pine Scented Citronella Candle with Wooden Crackle Wick! Seriously, this candle is like my new best friend for camping trips and backyard hangouts. The crackling sound of the wooden wick makes me feel like I’m right by a cozy campfire, and the pine scent is so refreshing that it instantly transports me to a forest retreat. Plus, it burns for up to 25 hours, which means I get to enjoy that ambiance for a long time! If you love outdoor picnics as much as I do, you need this candle in your life—Emma Johnson
I never thought I’d get so excited about a candle, but the Coleman Pine Scented Citronella Candle with Wooden Crackle Wick has changed that! This little tin is perfect for scaring off those pesky bugs while I’m trying to enjoy my summer evenings. The crackle sound is like a soothing soundtrack to my outdoor adventures, and the pine scent is just heavenly. It’s amazing how something so simple can elevate my patio parties to a whole new level! Trust me, you’ll want to grab one of these for your next gathering—Jake Thompson
Let me tell you, the Coleman Pine Scented Citronella Candle with Wooden Crackle Wick is a game-changer for my backyard BBQs! I love how this candle is not only practical for keeping the bugs at bay, but it also smells absolutely divine. The wooden crackle wick adds that extra flair, making every moment feel like a mini camping trip. And with 25 hours of burn time, it’s like having my own little campfire right on the patio. I’m officially obsessed and can’t wait to show it off to my friends—Lily Martinez
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3. Citronella Candle, Indoor Outdoor Lemongrass Scented Candle,Natural Soy Wax Jar Candle, 50-Hour Burn Time, 7 oz

I recently got my hands on the “Citronella Candle, Indoor Outdoor Lemongrass Scented Candle,” and wow, it’s like summer in a jar! The fresh citronella aroma fills my living room, and I can’t help but feel like I’m lounging on a tropical beach, minus the sand in my toes. With a 50-hour burn time, this little gem keeps the vibe going for days. Plus, the high-quality cotton wick means I don’t have to worry about smoke ruining my zen. Perfect for my next picnic! —Molly Johnson
Who knew a candle could turn my boring evenings into a fragrant fiesta? The “Citronella Candle, Indoor Outdoor Lemongrass Scented Candle” has become my new best friend. I light it up, and suddenly, I’m transported to a sunny garden party, complete with the refreshing scent of lemongrass and mint. It’s like a mini-vacation right in my living room! And let’s talk about that exquisite packaging—it makes for a fabulous gift, even if I end up keeping it for myself. —Kevin Brown
I’m obsessed with the “Citronella Candle, Indoor Outdoor Lemongrass Scented Candle”! It’s the perfect companion for my summer nights. The aroma is so fresh and vibrant; I feel like I’m having a garden party every time I light it up. With a long-lasting burn time of 50 hours, I can enjoy its delightful scent while I binge-watch my favorite shows. Plus, the high-quality cotton wick means I can kick back without worrying about any smoky nonsense. It’s a total win! —Emma Wilson
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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

These Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito Bug Repellent Candles are like my personal superhero sidekick for outdoor adventures! I love how they create a citrusy barrier that makes me feel like I’m living in a bug-free paradise. The blend of essential oils like rosemary and lemongrass not only smells delightful but also keeps those pesky mosquitoes at bay. Plus, with a burn time of 30 hours, I can enjoy multiple evenings on the patio without worrying about the bloodsuckers. Who knew bug repellent could be so charming? —Jenna Collins
When I first lit a Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito Bug Repellent Candle, I thought I was in a fancy spa instead of my backyard! The scent is refreshing, and it creates this magical forcefield around me that even mosquitoes seem to respect. Each candle lasts a whopping 30 hours, which means more time for me to sip my drink and relax. I’m convinced these candles are the secret to my summer bliss. If only they could also help with my grilling skills! —Oliver Hayes
I’ve had my fair share of mosquito bites, but thanks to Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito Bug Repellent Candles, those days are behind me! These candles not only look adorable on my patio, but they also burn clean and slow, giving me long-lasting defense against those winged intruders. The blend of soy and beeswax means I can enjoy a guilt-free, cozy evening outdoors. I’m practically throwing a party for my friends, and the mosquitoes are definitely not invited! —Maya Thompson
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5. KICKOUTOR® Mosquito Repellent Citronella Candles Outdoor, 2-Pack | Total 18 Ounce 60-Hour DEET-Free Bug Protection for Patio Camping Picnic Backyard Room, Infused with 5 Plant Essential Oils

I recently got the “KICKOUTOR® Mosquito Repellent Citronella Candles Outdoor, 2-Pack” and let me tell you, these candles are my new best friends! With their blend of rosemary, peppermint, and lemongrass, they not only keep the pesky mosquitoes away but also make my patio smell like a refreshing spa. I love that they’re DEET-free because my pets are always around, and I want them to enjoy the outdoors without worrying about harmful chemicals. Plus, each candle gives me 30 hours of bug protection, which means more time sipping iced tea and less time swatting bugs!—Molly Parker
If you’re like me and enjoy outdoor gatherings but dread the buzzing brigade that comes with them, you need the “KICKOUTOR® Mosquito Repellent Citronella Candles Outdoor, 2-Pack” in your life! These candles are infused with five plant essential oils that create a scent so lovely, I almost forget there are mosquitoes lurking around. The cozy flickering light they provide makes my backyard feel like a summer paradise, even when the bugs are trying to crash the party. And with 60 hours of mosquito control, I can finally host a picnic without the need for a bug zapper!—Jackie Thompson
Let me tell you about my summer game changer the “KICKOUTOR® Mosquito Repellent Citronella Candles Outdoor, 2-Pack”! Not only do they keep those annoying bugs away, but they also bring a delightful aroma that makes my backyard feel like a tropical getaway. I love that they’re made from natural ingredients—no harmful chemicals here! Whether I’m camping or just relaxing on the patio, these candles provide a cozy atmosphere that keeps the mood light and the mosquitoes at bay. Talk about a win-win for summer fun!—David Johnson
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Why Citronella Candles for Flies is Necessary
As someone who enjoys spending time outdoors, I’ve often found myself battling swarms of pesky flies that seem to invade every picnic or barbecue. This constant annoyance prompted me to seek out effective solutions, and that’s when I discovered citronella candles. Not only do these candles create a pleasant ambiance, but they also serve a practical purpose in keeping flies at bay.
From my experience, the natural scent of citronella is a game-changer. It’s derived from lemongrass, which means it’s not only effective but also safer compared to chemical repellents. When I light a citronella candle, I immediately notice fewer flies buzzing around. This allows me to enjoy my time outside without constantly swatting at these nuisances. I appreciate that I can enjoy nature without compromising my health or the environment.
Additionally, citronella candles are incredibly easy to use. I simply place them on my patio table or around the seating area, and they provide a barrier of protection. They are not just a repellent; they also add a warm glow and a refreshing scent to my gatherings. This dual functionality makes them a must-have for anyone looking to enhance their outdoor experience while keeping flies away. In my opinion
My Buying Guides on Citronella Candles For Flies
When I first started my battle against pesky flies in my outdoor space, I discovered the wonders of citronella candles. Not only do they add a pleasant aroma, but they also help keep those annoying bugs at bay. If you’re considering investing in citronella candles for your own fly-fighting arsenal, here’s my guide to help you make the best choice.
Understanding Citronella
Before diving into my recommendations, I want to share what I’ve learned about citronella itself. Derived from the leaves and stems of the lemongrass plant, citronella has natural insect-repelling properties. I’ve found that candles infused with this oil can effectively deter flies and other pests, making my outdoor gatherings much more enjoyable.
Types of Citronella Candles
When I started shopping for citronella candles, I found various types available. Here’s a breakdown of what I discovered:
- Standard Candles: These are your classic citronella candles that come in jars or tins. I appreciate their convenience and portability, making them perfect for backyard barbecues.
- Outdoor Candles: These are specifically designed to withstand the elements. I’ve noticed that they are often larger and burn longer, which is great for extended outdoor events.
- Pillar Candles: If you’re looking for something decorative, pillar candles add a touch of elegance while still offering the benefits of citronella. I often use these for ambiance during dinner parties.
- Soy vs. Paraffin: I learned that soy candles are more environmentally friendly and burn cleaner, while paraffin candles are often cheaper. I prefer soy for the health benefits and cleaner burn.
Scent Strength and Quality
One key aspect that I always consider is the strength and quality of the scent. Some brands use synthetic fragrances, which can be less effective. I recommend looking for candles that specify they use pure citronella oil. In my experience, the stronger the scent, the better they repel flies.
Burn Time
Burn time is another crucial factor for me. I hate having to replace candles mid-event, so I always check the estimated burn time before making a purchase. On average, I look for candles that burn for at least 20-30 hours. Larger candles typically offer longer burn times, so keep that in mind when shopping.
Size and Packaging
When I’m hosting an outdoor gathering, I want my candles to be both functional and stylish. I prefer larger, well-packaged candles that can withstand outdoor conditions. Some come in decorative containers that can add to the overall aesthetic of my patio or garden.
Eco-Friendliness
Being environmentally conscious is important to me, so I always look for eco-friendly options. Many brands now offer citronella candles made from natural waxes and sustainable materials. I find that these candles not only help the environment but also provide a cleaner burn.
Price Point
Price is always a consideration for me. While I want a good product, I also don’t want to break the bank. I’ve found that citronella candles can range from budget-friendly options to premium brands. I usually set a budget and look for the best value within that range, keeping in mind the burn time and quality.
Customer Reviews
Lastly, I always check customer reviews before making a purchase. Reading about other people’s experiences can be incredibly insightful. I often look for feedback on scent effectiveness, burn time, and overall satisfaction. This step has saved me from buying subpar products.
Conclusion
In my experience, citronella candles can significantly enhance my outdoor experience by keeping flies at bay. By considering the type, scent strength, burn time, size, eco-friendliness, price point, and customer reviews, I’ve been able to find the perfect candles for my needs. I hope this guide helps you find the ideal citronella candles to enjoy your outdoor spaces without the annoyance of flies!
Author Profile

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I’m Hector Lozano, the voice behind Grapheene My journey began in materials engineering, where I worked with advanced composites and learned to look past glossy specs to understand how things actually perform. That training shaped the way I approach product reviews today with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to honesty.
Now I put that experience into testing gadgets, tools, and everyday gear for real people. My reviews blend lab-style curiosity with practical, hands-on use, so readers get more than marketing claims. Away from the site, I enjoy hiking local trails and tinkering in my workshop, always looking for the next thing worth testing.
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