Summer nights should smell like lavender, not bug spray.
But once the mosquitoes roll in, many of us reach for citronella candles by default—only to be left swatting the air, wondering if they’re doing anything at all. While citronella is the most well-known natural repellent, it’s far from the most effective—or the best smelling.
If you're looking for a cleaner, more beautiful way to keep bugs at bay, you're in the right place. Here's what really works when it comes to natural mosquito repellent candles—and how ReCandle Co. is rethinking the category entirely.
Why Look Beyond Citronella?
Citronella has been the go-to mosquito repellent for decades, but its reputation is a little overinflated.
Yes, it can deter mosquitoes—but only in a small radius, for a short time (we’re talking 30–60 minutes at best). Many citronella candles are also made with synthetic fragrances and paraffin wax, which can release toxins when burned—especially if you're sitting nearby.
If you're aiming for something more effective and non-toxic, it's time to expand your toolkit.
Natural Ingredients That Help Repel Mosquitoes
Plenty of other essential oils have been shown to repel mosquitoes—many more effectively than citronella. Some of the most promising options include:
- Lemon Eucalyptus Oil: Not to be confused with lemon or eucalyptus alone, this oil is one of the few plant-based ingredients recommended by the CDC as a mosquito repellent.
- Peppermint: A fresh, cooling scent that’s unpleasant to pests but delightful to humans.
- Lavender: Relaxing for you, annoying for bugs—this is a fan favorite in our summer blends.
- Rosemary & Thyme: Aromatic herbs that help keep mosquitoes at bay.
- Neem Oil: A lesser-known repellent with powerful properties.
Many of these essential oils can be blended into clean-burning soy wax to create candles that not only repel but elevate the vibe of your space.
The Candle Dilemma: Looks vs. Effectiveness
Most mosquito-repelling candles fall into two categories: the ones that work (but look like camping gear) and the ones that look great (but barely do anything).
At ReCandle Co., we’re not here to choose—we’re here to bridge the gap. We believe your outdoor setup can be both beautiful and functional. Our candles are made with natural repellent ingredients and designed to look good on your patio, your picnic table, or anywhere you gather this summer.
ReCandle Co.’s Take: Clean, Giftable Mosquito-Repelling Candles
We designed our summer candles to do more than just smell good—they’re made to support your rituals, repel unwanted guests, and leave zero waste behind.
Here’s what sets ours apart:
- Clean, plant-based wax: Each candle refill is made with soy wax and non-toxic fragrance oils—free from phthalates, carcinogens, and anything on California’s Prop 65 list.
- Naturally repellent blends: Scents like Lavender and White Eucalyptus are summer staples with functional benefits.
- Reusable design: Our refillable candles pop in and out of a handmade ceramic vessel, so you can reuse the same jar all season long.
- A gift-worthy package: Whether you’re headed to a backyard dinner or sending a summer birthday surprise, this is the kind of candle people actually want to receive.
Bonus: You can pair a candle with a fresh herb bundle (think rosemary, mint, and thyme) for an instant picnic-table upgrade that looks and smells amazing.
How to Get the Most Out of Mosquito-Repelling Candles
No candle can single-handedly protect your whole backyard—but you can get better results by being strategic. Here’s how to make the most of your setup:
- Use multiple candles: Create a perimeter around your seating area for better coverage.
- Burn in wind-protected areas: A gentle breeze feels nice, but strong wind can blow the scent away.
- Add fresh herbs: Rosemary, basil, mint, and lemon balm can boost the effect.
- Use fans wisely: Mosquitoes are weak fliers. A fan aimed low can help keep them from landing.
Want to go extra-DIY? Try a floating herb candle jar: fill a wide glass with lemon slices, lavender sprigs, and rosemary, then add water and a floating tealight. It's more decor than deterrent—but it does help in close range.
A Gift That’s Useful and Beautiful
There’s something about a summer candle that feels both thoughtful and unexpected. It’s seasonal, functional, and easy to personalize. And when it’s refillable and handmade? Even better.
Whether you’re gifting a full refillable candle or sending someone a candle subscription so they never run out, this is the kind of present that says: I thought of you, and your patio.
And because it’s designed to be reused, it keeps giving long after the bugs are gone.
FAQ
Do natural mosquito repellent candles really work?
Yes—but not all are created equal. Look for candles with proven repellent oils (like lemon eucalyptus and peppermint) in addition to pleasant scents like lavender or rosemary.
What essential oils repel mosquitoes best?
Lemon eucalyptus is the strongest natural option. Peppermint, lavender, neem, and rosemary also help.
Are your candles safe for pets and kids?
Yes—all ReCandle Co. candles are made with non-toxic fragrance oils and clean-burning soy wax. We avoid phthalates and other harmful chemicals.
Can I reuse my ReCandle jar?
Absolutely. Our ceramic vessels are heat-safe up to 2,000ºF and built to last. Just pop in a new soy wax refill when the old one burns down.