How to make anti-mosquito citronella candles

Mosquitoes are a problem at certain times of the year. Not only because they are very annoying, but because they can also transmit some diseases. Therefore, a good option for to remove them from our home are citronella anti-mosquito candles.

In this article we teach you how to do them step by step. So, naturally, you can fight mosquitoes and avoid their bites. In addition, candles are always a very special decorative element for any room in your home.

Does citronella keep mosquitoes away?

For starters, I'm sure we've already heard of citronella as a natural scent that is capable of acting as a repellent. However, is that true? Are these properties demonstrated at a scientific level?

Although in its beginnings it was popularized as an ingredient in perfumes, later it became one of the most famous natural repellents on the market. It is usually used in concentrations of 5 to 10% to avoid irritation of the skin.

Studies show that its components (citronellal, citronellol, geraniol, citral, pinene and limonene) They can be as effective as the DEET of conventional anti-mosquitoes. However, its oils evaporate quickly, so its effect does not hold as much over time.

In this sense, a citronella candle can be an excellent solution to benefit from the virtues of this essence and prolong its effectiveness. In addition, we will avoid the side effects of DEET, recognized as an endocrine disruptor.

Read also What is citronella?

How to make anti-mosquito citronella candles

The citronella candles are ideal to remove mosquitoes and, in passing, add an adornment to different rooms of the home.

To decorate our home, to give a fresh scent or to light an outdoor dinner... The citronella anti-mosquito candles have many other uses that protect us from these annoying insects.

In addition, they are an economical option that we can elaborate at home in a simple way. Even the youngest members of the family can help us and we can use it to recycle some jars. In summary, a very practical craft that we can do among all.

What do we need?

To make these anti-mosquito citronella candles we will need the following:

• Cans, bowls or glass jars that can be recycled
• Wax (can be soy, paraffin or we can also recycle used candles)
• Waxed wicks for candles (better if they are with portamechas)
• Citronella essential oil

Also, during the process You will also need a stainless steel pot or pan.

How do we do them?

Although citronella candles are available in the market, we have the option of making them at home with elements free of aggressive chemicals.

We detail step by step how to make these simple citronella candles to keep mosquitoes from your home.

• First of all, we can stick the wick to the base of the inside of the containers that we are going to use.
• Next, put a pot over medium heat with the wax until it is almost melted. At that time, put out the fire and let the heat itself just turn all the wax liquid. If we use old candles, we will cut the wax and act in the same way.
• At this time we can add the citronella essential oil and mix well all the preparation.
• Afterwards, we can let the liquid wax warm a little before filling the containers. If the waxed wick had no base, when the wax cools a little more we can introduce it carefully.
• We should not be in a hurry to cool the candles. Conversely, It is preferable that the process be slow, at a warm or ambient temperature. Ideally, let them stand for at least 48 hours before lighting.

Read also How to make scented candles with fruit peels

Decorate your candles

Now you have your citronella anti-mosquito candles ready. However, if they are going to be a decorative element of your home, you can play with the design to make them unique and personalized. Do you have materials at home that you want to take advantage of?

With yarns, wool, fabrics or burlap you can line the containers and give them a more rustic and familiar touch. Also, when you have mastered this technique you can add some pigments to the recipe to make them in different colors. And remember that you can reuse the remains of the candles already used to make new ones.

And finally, do not forget to always have your citronella essential oil on hand. In this way you can add a few more drops to enhance and maintain its aroma while you have the candles on.