Summer evenings outdoors are magical, but buzzing mosquitoes can quickly ruin the mood. Citronella candles offer a simple, effective way to keep pests at bay while adding a warm, inviting glow to your space.
This guide reviews ten top-rated citronella candles, highlighting their unique features, burn times, and best uses. Whether you need a compact option for camping or a large centerpiece for a backyard bash, you will find the perfect match here.
CERTAIN CONTENT THAT APPEARS ON THIS SITE COMES FROM AMAZON. THIS CONTENT IS PROVIDED “AS IS” AND IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR REMOVAL AT ANY TIME.
OFF! Backyard Citronella Scented Candle, Ambiance Enhancing Centerpiece, Bu…
Best forBackyard hosting and relaxing
- Classic citronella scent
- 25-hour burn time
ConsiderSmall size
Citronella Candles Outdoor, Large Citronella Candle for Patio, 2 Pack Natur…
Best forPatio and garden ambiance
- Natural soy wax
- Triple wicks for even burn
ConsiderLid may be flimsy
TIKI Citronella Candle Bucket for Outdoors, Triple-Wick Galvanized Metal
Best forRustic patio decor
- Durable metal bucket
- 32-hour burn time
ConsiderPlastic lid not as durable
Coleman Scented Outdoor Citronella Candle with Wooden Crackle Wick, Pine Sc…
Best forCamping and campfire ambiance
- Crackling wooden wick
- Refreshing pine scent
ConsiderSmaller size
Citronella Candles Outdoor,6 Pack 42 oz Soy Wax Tin Candles with 7% Citrone…
Best forLarge gatherings and events
- 300 total burn hours
- Bonus bottle opener
ConsiderIndividual candles smaller
Citronella Candles Outdoor, Large 36oZ Citronella Candles, 240 Hours Burnin…
Best forExtended outdoor seasons
- 240 total burn hours
- Natural soy wax
ConsiderLarge size may be bulky
Citronella Candles Outdoor – Large 23oz Citronella Candles Outdoor with Lid…
Best forIndoor and outdoor versatility
- Lid for protection
- Triple wicks
ConsiderTin may dent easily
TIKI Citronella Concrete Candle 2 Pack Outdoor Tabletop Décor
Best forModern tabletop centerpieces
- Modern concrete design
- 30-hour burn time
ConsiderHeavy concrete bowl
Citronella Candles Outdoor, 30oz Large Citronella Candles for Patio Yard Ho…
Best forLong-lasting natural scent
- 150-hour burn time
- Natural soy wax
ConsiderLarge size may be too big
M&SENSE Citronella Candles Outdoor – 220 Hour Burn, 40.6oz Large, Natural N…
Best forStatement piece for large spaces
- 220-hour burn time
- Unique oil barrel design
ConsiderVery large footprint
OFF! Backyard Citronella Candle – Classic 25-Hour Burn
Brand: OFF!
A dependable, no-frills citronella candle for everyday outdoor use.
The OFF! Backyard Citronella Candle is a reliable choice for anyone seeking a straightforward, effective mosquito repellent. With a burn time of up to 25 hours per candle, this 8-ounce pack of two offers long-lasting protection for your outdoor gatherings. The scent is classic citronella, not overpowering, and it works just like a normal candle, so you can place it on tables, railings, or anywhere you need a bug-free zone.
Its ambiance-enhancing design makes it ideal for hosting or simply relaxing in your backyard. The compact size is convenient for moving around, and the two-pack ensures you have backup when needed. If you want a no-fuss, dependable citronella candle that delivers on its promise, this one is a solid pick.
- Classic citronella scent
- 25-hour burn time
- Compact two-pack
- Small size
- Basic design
Aottom Large Citronella Candle – Triple-Wick Soy Wax
Brand: Aottom
A large, eco-friendly candle with a long burn time and reusable jar.
The Aottom Large Citronella Candle stands out with its natural soy wax and 8% plant-derived aromas, offering a cleaner burn than traditional paraffin options. The three wicks ensure an even, efficient burn, and the large 2x15oz size means you get extended use from each candle. The included lid helps protect the wax from debris and makes storage easy.
This candle is versatile, suitable for both outdoor and indoor use, so you can enjoy its fresh scent on your patio, balcony, or even inside your home. The reusable jar adds value, allowing you to repurpose it after the candle is gone. If you want a large, eco-friendly citronella candle that lasts, this is a great choice.
- Natural soy wax
- Triple wicks for even burn
- Reusable jar
- Lid may be flimsy
- Scent could be stronger
TIKI Citronella Candle Bucket – Rustic Galvanized Metal
Brand: TIKI
A stylish, long-burning candle that adds rustic charm to any outdoor space.
The TIKI Citronella Candle Bucket brings a rustic charm to any outdoor setting with its galvanized metal finish. This 28-ounce candle provides up to 32 hours of burn time, making it a long-lasting option for extended evenings. The triple-wick design ensures a steady, bright flame that enhances the ambiance of your patio, deck, or garden.
Its sturdy metal bucket is built to withstand outdoor conditions, and the included plastic lid keeps the wax clean when not in use. Perfect for tabletop use at barbecues or camping trips, this candle combines functionality with style. If you appreciate a durable, attractive candle that performs well, the TIKI bucket is a top contender.
- Durable metal bucket
- 32-hour burn time
- Stylish rustic look
- Plastic lid not as durable
- Outdoor use only
Coleman Citronella Candle – Pine Scent with Crackle Wick
Brand: Coleman
A unique candle that adds a campfire feel with its crackling wick and pine scent.
The Coleman Scented Outdoor Citronella Candle offers a unique twist with its wooden crackle wick, which produces a soothing crackling sound reminiscent of a campfire. Infused with a refreshing pine scent, this candle not only repels insects but also adds a natural, woodsy aroma to your outdoor space. Each 6-ounce candle burns for up to 25 hours, and the pack of six provides plenty of coverage.
Ideal for campfires, backyard patios, and picnics, this candle is designed for outdoor use and helps create a relaxing ambiance. The wooden wick is safe and easy to use, and the pine fragrance enhances the outdoor experience. If you enjoy the crackle of a fire and a fresh pine scent, this Coleman candle is a delightful choice.
- Crackling wooden wick
- Refreshing pine scent
- Pack of six
- Smaller size
- Scent may be too subtle
YINUO LIGHT Citronella Candles – 6-Pack with Bonus Opener
Brand: YINUO LIGHT
A versatile six-pack with long burn times and a handy bonus.
The YINUO LIGHT Citronella Candle set includes six 7-ounce tin candles, totaling 42 ounces of soy wax infused with 7% citronella oil. Each candle burns for up to 50 hours, giving you a combined 300 hours of outdoor ambiance. The portable tin containers are easy to place around your patio, picnic table, or campsite.
As a bonus, you get a magnetic bottle opener, adding practicality to your outdoor gear. The soy wax and cotton wicks ensure a clean, even burn, and the citronella scent is effective yet pleasant. This set is perfect for large gatherings or for spreading candles across multiple areas. If you need a versatile, long-lasting citronella candle solution, this set delivers.
- 300 total burn hours
- Bonus bottle opener
- Portable tin containers
- Individual candles smaller
- Scent may fade over time
SUPERSUN Citronella Candles – 3-Pack of 12oz with 240 Hours
Brand: SUPERSUN
A high-capacity set that provides months of outdoor protection.
The SUPERSUN Citronella Candle set features three 12-ounce candles, each burning for up to 80 hours, for a total of 240 hours of protection. Crafted with premium soy wax and 7% natural citronella oil, these candles offer a clean, even burn with three lead-free wicks per candle. The large size is ideal for patios, campsites, and poolside evenings.
Whether you are hosting a backyard BBQ or enjoying a quiet night under the stars, these candles provide consistent, long-lasting ambiance. The natural ingredients ensure a non-toxic experience, and the sturdy construction makes them reliable for outdoor use. If you want a high-capacity citronella candle that lasts all season, this set is a strong option.
- 240 total burn hours
- Natural soy wax
- Three wicks per candle
- Large size may be bulky
- Scent is mild
Aottom Citronella Candle – 23oz with Lid and Triple Wick
Brand: Aottom
A versatile, large candle with a convenient lid for flexible use.
The Aottom Citronella Candle is a large 23-ounce option with a lid, making it easy to store and protect between uses. The triple-wick design ensures a strong, even flame, and the natural soy wax blend with 8% plant aromas offers a clean burn. This candle is suitable for both outdoor and indoor use, so you can enjoy its benefits anywhere.
Its portable tin design is both functional and attractive, fitting well on patios, balconies, or even as a decorative piece indoors. The long burn time means you can rely on it for multiple evenings. If you prefer a larger candle with a lid for convenience, this Aottom model is a practical choice.
- Lid for protection
- Triple wicks
- Suitable for indoor use
- Tin may dent easily
- Scent could be stronger
TIKI Citronella Concrete Candle – Modern Tabletop Décor
The TIKI Citronella Concrete Candle combines function with modern design, featuring a 7-inch white wax bowl in a durable concrete finish. This stylish candle adds a sophisticated touch to any patio, deck, or backyard, making it a perfect tabletop centerpiece. Each candle burns for up to 30 hours, providing extended ambient lighting for your gatherings.
The concrete bowl is weather-resistant and sturdy, ensuring it holds up well outdoors. This 2-pack set offers great value, allowing you to place one on your dining table and another on a side table. If you want a citronella candle that doubles as décor, this TIKI option is an excellent choice.
- Modern concrete design
- 30-hour burn time
- Weather-resistant
- Heavy concrete bowl
- Limited scent throw
Aottom Lemongrass Citronella Candle – 30oz with Handle
The Aottom Lemongrass Citronella Candle is a large 30-ounce option that burns for up to 150 hours, making it one of the longest-lasting candles on this list. Made entirely from natural soy wax and lemongrass essential oil, it offers a fresh, clean scent that effectively repels insects. The cotton wick is natural and lead-free, ensuring a safe burn.
This candle comes in a beautiful tin jar with handles, making it easy to carry and place around your garden, patio, or campsite. The lemongrass fragrance is pleasant and not overpowering, ideal for those who prefer a lighter scent. If you want a long-lasting, natural citronella candle with a charming design, this one is worth considering.
- 150-hour burn time
- Natural soy wax
- Handles for portability
- Large size may be too big
- Lemongrass scent not traditional
M&SENSE Citronella Candle – Extra Large Oil Barrel Design
Brand: M&SENSE
An impressive, long-lasting candle with a unique design and complex scent.
The M&SENSE Citronella Candle features a unique extra-large oil barrel shape, holding 40.6 ounces of soy wax. With a burn time of up to 220 hours, this candle is designed for long-term use, making it ideal for spaces that need continuous ambiance. The layered citronella fragrance includes top notes of lime and aldehyde, middle notes of litsea cubeba and floral, and base notes of citronella and floral, creating a complex, pleasant aroma.
Its distinctive design adds a fashionable touch to any outdoor setting, and the large size means you won’t need to replace it frequently. The natural soy wax ensures a clean burn, and the fragrance is both effective and refined. If you want a statement piece that also repels insects, this M&SENSE candle is a standout choice.
- 220-hour burn time
- Unique oil barrel design
- Layered fragrance
- Very large footprint
- Scent may be too strong
Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider
Choosing the right citronella candle involves more than just picking the first one you see. Consider factors like burn time, wax type, and design to ensure it meets your needs. This guide highlights key points to help you make an informed decision.
- Burn Time: Consider how long you need the candle to last. Options range from 25 hours to 220 hours. Longer burn times are ideal for frequent outdoor use or large gatherings, while shorter ones may suffice for occasional evenings.
- Wax Type: Soy wax is a popular choice because it burns cleaner and is more eco-friendly than paraffin. Some candles use a blend or other natural waxes. Check the label if you prefer a specific type for health or environmental reasons.
- Wick Count: Single-wick candles are common, but triple-wick designs offer a larger flame and more even burn. This can be beneficial for larger areas or when you want more light and scent throw. Consider the size of your space when choosing.
- Design and Portability: Candles come in various designs, from simple tins to decorative concrete bowls. Some include lids for easy storage, while others have handles for portability. Think about where you will place them and how often you need to move them.
- Scent Profile: While all these candles have citronella, some add other scents like pine, lemongrass, or floral notes. Choose a fragrance that complements your outdoor setting and personal preference, but ensure the citronella is strong enough to repel insects.
Conclusion
Citronella candles are a practical and pleasant way to keep mosquitoes at bay while enhancing your outdoor experience. From compact options for camping to large, decorative pieces for your patio, there is a candle to suit every need and style.
For most people, the OFF! Backyard Citronella Candle offers reliable performance at a great value, while the TIKI Concrete Candle adds a touch of elegance. If you need maximum burn time, the M&SENSE or Aottom Lemongrass candles are excellent choices. Consider your specific requirements and choose the one that fits your lifestyle.
Erica Steven is the founder and lead writer of WorstBrands, a site dedicated to providing honest and trustworthy reviews about outdoor gear and fashion products.
With a passion for exploring the great outdoors and staying up to date on the latest fashion trends, Erica uses her expertise to provide valuable insights into the products that matter most to her readers.
Whether you're looking for camping equipment or the latest fashion accessories, Erica's articles are the perfect resource for finding the best products that fit your lifestyle.