Did you know that you can make your own DIY mosquito repellent candles right at home? And it is actually easy, y’all! Follow the instructions below to use this recipe all summer long and say goodbye to pricey citronella candles.
These DIY mosquito repellent candles are part of Summer in Jars Week, where we are sharing jar ideas all summer long! If you have missed any of the fun, be sure to catch up with day 1 and day 2. You will also want to scroll down to the bottom of this post to see other jar craft ideas for today from the other bloggers in this series.
Ready for more summertime crafts? You’ll love this DIY string art and my cute handprint dragonflies!
DIY Mosquito Repellent Candles Video Tutorial
All you need for this DIY candle project is a few basic supplies and 10 minutes of your day. To make things even easier, I decided to make a quick video showing exactly how to make mosquito repellent candles. Watch below!
Can’t watch the video or missed some of the steps? I’ve got you covered. You can follow the instructions below.
DIY Mosquito Repellent Candles
Did you know that you probably already have most of the ingredients for these mosquito repellent candles in your home? They are not only super easy to make, but the supplies and ingredients are also quite simple.
Supplies Needed For DIY Mosquito Repellent Candles
- Pint mason jars
- Floating candles
- Lemons
- Limes
- Basil
- Lemongrass essential oil
- Water
How to Make DIY Mosquito Repellent Candles
Step 1: Slice Lemon And Lime
Slice one lemon and one lime (this will be enough for two candles).
Step 2: Add Lemon And Lime To Jar
Add a couple of slices of lemon and lime to the jar.
Step 3: Add Basil
Add a couple of sprigs of basil on top of your lemon and lime slices.
Step 4: Fill Jar With Water
Fill the jar with water up to the threads.
Step 5: Add Lemongrass Oil
Add 10 – 15 drops of lemongrass oil to your jar.
Step 6: Stir
Stir everything together.
Step 7: Add Floating Candle
Add a floating candle to your jar.
Step 8: Light Candle
Light the candle and enjoy a pest-free summer!
Why Make DIY Mosquito Repellent Candles?
Not only do these easy homemade mosquito repellent candles serve as beautiful outdoor decorations, but they are also highly functional! I love spending time outdoors, but I equally dislike mosquitoes.
Making your own DIY mosquito repellent candles will save you money on citronella products (that may or may not work). Instead, just make your own! They’re pretty, quick, and will keep away the mosquitoes and other bugs from your summer parties. You have to love that!
FAQs About DIY Mosquito Repellent Candles
Here are a few common questions that I often see readers asking about making Mosquito Repellent Candles. If you have a question, please check if I’ve already addressed it below. If you don’t see your question listed, please leave it in the comments
What’s The Purpose Of The Floating Candle, And How Does The Candle Work?
The floating candle is primarily for ambiance, and the scent is mainly what keeps the mosquitoes away.
How Long Will These DIY Mosquito Repellent Candles Last?
When used, the candle will last approximately 3-5 days.
After 3-5 days, I would change the water, fruit, and basil to keep it fresh. Then, when not in use, I would put the lid on the jar and store it in the refrigerator.
Will Other Herbs Work In Place Of The Basil?
I have not used other herbs, but you can definitely try them!
Can These Candles Be Made Up Ahead Of Time And Stored?
I haven’t tried making them ahead of time. However, if you do, I would recommend refrigerating the candles and using them as soon as possible. This is because they are only good for 3-5 days.
If I Make These DIY Mosquito Repellent Candles As Gifts, When Should I Assemble Them?
Since the candles only last a few days, I would assemble them either the night before or on the day you plan to gift them. Also, when you assemble the candles, I would refrigerate them until you are ready to gift them.
The Essential Oil Turned My Basil Brown. What Am I Doing Wrong?
I had one do that, too! I would recommend squeezing the lemon a little for more citrus.
Where Can I Find Floating Candles?
You can find floating candles at the Dollar Store or online.
Can I Use LED Candles Instead Of Regular Candles?
I don’t think the LED candles can be put in water, but there may be some I’m not aware of. Just be sure the candles are water-safe.
Can I Add Orange Slices For More Color?
Absolutely! You can definitely make these candles your own and add other fruit slices to complement the lemon and lime.
More Summer In A Jar Ideas
Now, I promised you even more summer-in-a-jar ideas! To see all the other ideas, click the links below!
Mason Jar Quiz
Just in case you’re curious, I’ve also created a quiz to help you determine what type of mason jar you are! This is just for fun, but it might give you some great ideas for jars to use in your own crafts. Take the quiz below!
5 More Candle Crafts
Love these DIY mosquito repellent candles, and want more candle crafts? Check out the projects below!
Hello! This is really amazing and can’t wait to try it. Please would like to ask if the lemongrass oil can be substituted for fresh lemongrass, just added along with the basil?
I have not tried it but I am sure that would work!
Hi,
Can you use Citronella oil instead?
Probably? Not sure!
Will other herbs (rosemary, lemon balm, sage?) work in place of the basil?
You can definitely try them!
How long does one last?
Several days. Maybe 4 – 5.
Store in refrigerator when not in use?
I would so that they don’t go bad but I wouldn’t keep them for too long 🙂
How long will this last? How often will I need change the lemons, limes, and basil?
Usually 3 – 4 days.
How long would these candles last? I was thinking of making some as gifts but didn’t want everything to rot before I give them.
They do only last a few days so I would assemble before you give them.
Do you have to use the candle?
The smell would probably detract them on its own but I do think the slight heat intensifies the smell.
Are the floating candles that have a very thin metal backing underneath and up to the rim acceptable or does the floating candle have to free of any adornment? There are 2 types of floating candles on the market, and was wondering if the 1st type are ok.
I have never seen a floating one have the metal. Only tea lights. So I am not sure.
Thanks for the idea! I like lemongrass, but do not like citronella (even though they come from same plant). I will have to try these!!
once the candle has been blown out and cooled, can you take it out of the jar, seal the jar with a lid, can you put it in the refrigerator to make it last longer?
I have not tried that.
Can I substitute green tea EO in place of lemongrass EO?
You can try it. Not sure it would work.
Does this also work for no see-ums? (I don’t know their official name) but I am in central Florida, and can spend any time outside in the afternoon/evenings. Should this work for these too?
I am not sure, I haven’t tried it there. Maybe someone else will know 🙂
I get a products from Ace Hardware on the west coast of FL called No Seeums in a small spray bottle. All natural geranium oil and another type of essential oil. ALL bugs hate it. It’s wonderful! Good for your skin too!
How long will a jar of this keep?
When being used these will last approximately 3-5 days. I would assemble them right before use because the fresh lemon and lime would not last stored.
Can these be made up ahead of time and stored at room temp or refrigerated. With/without candle in them
I haven’t tried that. If you do I would refrigerate it and use them as soon as possible.
Can I use grounded up basil, like the ones you buy in th store for seasoning, instead of the leaves?
You would have to test it. I haven’t tried that yet so I’m not totally sure. Let me know if it works 🙂
Hello…. What size floating candle is needed ? Wouldn’t want to order the to small size and it look weird.. 🤷🏽♀️🤷🏽♀️🫣
I would measure the opening of your jar. I can’t remember exactly what size I used 🙂