Do citronella candles really keep mosquitoes away?

Citronella candles are moderately effective at repelling mosquitoes but only in the immediate area surrounding the candle. 6 They do not keep mosquitoes out of your yard, and they do nothing to prevent mosquitoes from multiplying.

What bugs does a citronella candle keep away?

However, there is only so much this fragrant oil can do to keep mosquitos at bay. In one study, candles made with citronella essential oil were able to reduce the number of mosquitoes by about 35\% and sand flies by 15\%.

Where is the best place to put a citronella candle?

Placement. It’s best to place your citronella candle where it can offer the most protection of your outdoor area from bugs. One central candle may be enough, or you might need a protective perimeter of candles for a larger area. You should also keep it in a spot that’s protected from wind and rain.

What citronella candle works best?

10 Best Citronella Candles for Keeping Pests Away

• Murphy’s Naturals Mosquito Repellent Candle.
• Repel Insect Repellent Citronella Candle.
• Citronella & Lime in Reusable Acacia Bowl.
• Mainstays Outdoor Citronella Bucket Candle.
• Votive Citronella Candles.
• Mintronella Candle.
• Multi-Wick Ceramic Citronella Candle.

Do moth balls help with mosquitoes?

No, not unless the label describes that type of use pattern. The label of any pesticide product, including mothballs, tells you exactly where and how a product is supposed to be used. Using the product in any other way could put you and others at risk. Besides, they have little or no effect as repellents.

Does citronella attract bugs?

Citronella is naturally occurring oil that repels insects. It is distilled from two types of grass, according to the National Pesticide Information Center. The oil is supposed to work by masking scents that are attractive to insects, according to the NPIC.

What is the best mosquito repellent candle?

Citronella is widely used as a natural plant-based insect repellent. Studies have proven the natural aroma of citronella is an effective mosquito repellent. Use these candles on your patio, backyard or bring them along camping to enjoy being outdoors without the hassle of mosquitoes.

How effective are citronella candles?

Researchers at the University of Guelph in Ontario studied the effectiveness of citronella by using candles with a three percent concentration of the oil. The citronella candles effectively reduced mosquito landings by 42 percent, according to their study published in the National Institute of Health library.

Which insects does citronella repel?

Proper Way to Use Citronella to Repel Insects. Citronella oil repels insects such as mosquitoes, black flies, fleas and ticks, therefore preventing its bites. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) citronella oil has little or no toxicity when used as a tropical insect repellent.

Is Citronella effective against mosquitoes?

Citronella mosquito repellent is proven to be effective at reducing the number of bites a person receives, but it does not completely eliminate them and it’s less effective than chemical ingredients like DEET .