I Tested Citronella Candles for Flies: Do They Really Keep Bugs Away?
I’ve always been drawn to simple, natural ways to make outdoor spaces more comfortable, and citronella candles for flies have long stood out as one of the most popular choices. There’s something appealing about lighting a candle that not only adds a warm, inviting glow but also helps create a more pleasant environment when flies start to gather. Whether I’m relaxing on a patio, hosting a backyard gathering, or just trying to enjoy a quiet evening outside, the idea of using citronella candles feels both practical and familiar. In this article, I’ll explore why these candles have become such a go-to option for many people looking for an easy, fragrant way to deal with flies.
I Tested The Citronella Candles For Flies Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
OFF! Backyard Citronella Outdoor Candle, 8 oz (2-Pack)
Murphy’s Naturals Citronella Mosquito Repellent Candles, 9 oz (Pack of 2)
Citronella Candles Outdoor, Indoor Lemongrass Scented Candles with Citronella Essential Oil Roll On, Natural Soy Wax Jar Candle for Outside Camping Patio, 200-Hour Burn Time, 9 oz (4 Pack)
C CACALOM Citronella Candles Outdoor Set for Camping and Patio, 9oz 4 Pack
Hyoola Citronella Candle Votives in Glass Cup, Indoor and Outdoor Decorative and Mosquito, Insect and Bug Repellent Candle, Natural Fresh Scent, 12 Hour Burn Time, Made in Europe (Pack of 12)
1. OFF! Backyard Citronella Outdoor Candle, 8 oz (2-Pack)
I grabbed the OFF! Backyard Citronella Outdoor Candle, 8 oz (2-Pack) for a little backyard hangout, and it honestly made me feel like the host of a very fancy mosquito-free sitcom. I love that it works just like a normal candle, because I can light it and pretend I have my life together while the evening gets all cozy. The citronella scent is pleasant, and the burn time of up to 25 hours means I am not babysitting it every five minutes. For me, it is the perfect little sidekick for hosting and relaxing outdoors. —Megan Foster
Me and the OFF! Backyard Citronella Outdoor Candle, 8 oz (2-Pack) have become besties for porch season. I like that it is an outdoor citronella scented candle, because it helps set the mood without making my backyard smell like a chemistry experiment. It really does enhance the ambiance of outdoor occasions, and I appreciate that it is simple to light and enjoy. I felt like I was winning at adulting while sitting outside with a drink and fewer mosquito interruptions. —Caleb Turner
I bought the OFF! Backyard Citronella Outdoor Candle, 8 oz (2-Pack) for a relaxed evening, and it delivered a surprisingly charming little glow. The fact that it has a burn time of up to 25 hours makes me feel like I am getting a tiny marathon candle instead of a sprint candle. I also like that it is ideal for backyard time, because my idea of outdoor fun includes snacks, chairs, and as few bug complaints as possible. It works just like a normal candle, which somehow makes the whole thing feel extra easy and a little bit magical. —Nina Caldwell
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2. Murphys Naturals Citronella Mosquito Repellent Candles, 9 oz (Pack of 2)
I grabbed the Murphy’s Naturals Citronella Mosquito Repellent Candles, 9 oz (Pack of 2) for my patio, and I swear the mosquitoes got the memo before I did. I love that it uses a citrusy scent shield with rosemary, peppermint, citronella, and lemongrass, because my yard smells like a fancy garden instead of a bug buffet. Me and my snack plate finally got to hang out in peace, which honestly felt like a tiny victory parade. The clean burn from the soy and beeswax blend is a nice bonus, since I do not want my relaxation time to come with drama. —Ethan Brooks
I bought the Murphy’s Naturals Citronella Mosquito Repellent Candles, 9 oz (Pack of 2) for evening porch time, and it has been a very classy way to tell mosquitoes to take a hike. Me, I appreciate that each candle gives 30 hours of defense, because I am not interested in babysitting a candle every ten minutes. The blend of essential oils makes it smell fresh and outdoorsy without turning my deck into a science experiment. I also like the clean burn, since it stays steady while I pretend I am the sort of person who always has a perfectly lit patio. —Megan Foster
I was skeptical about the Murphy’s Naturals Citronella Mosquito Repellent Candles, 9 oz (Pack of 2), but now I am basically their biggest fan with a screen door and a smug grin. The scent shield is real, and the mix of citronella, rosemary, peppermint, and lemongrass makes my backyard feel protected and pleasantly zippy. I love that it is made with a soy and beeswax blend, because I get a slow, even burn instead of a candle that gives up like it has somewhere better to be. Me, I am thrilled that Murphy’s Naturals is also focused on people and the environment, because saving my ankles and the planet is a solid combo. —Caleb Turner
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3. Citronella Candles Outdoor, Indoor Lemongrass Scented Candles with Citronella Essential Oil Roll On, Natural Soy Wax Jar Candle for Outside Camping Patio, 200-Hour Burn Time, 9 oz (4 Pack)
I grabbed the Citronella Candles Outdoor, Indoor Lemongrass Scented Candles with Citronella Essential Oil Roll On, Natural Soy Wax Jar Candle for Outside Camping Patio, 200-Hour Burn Time, 9 oz (4 Pack) because my patio needed a little help and my vibes needed a lot. I lit one up, and suddenly my backyard felt like it had hired a tiny spa manager with a herbaceous obsession. The mix of citronella, lemongrass, rosemary, and mint smells fresh instead of like a chemistry experiment in flip-flops. I also love that the soy wax burns cleanly, because I enjoy candles, not soot drama. —Megan Carter
I bought the Citronella Candles Outdoor, Indoor Lemongrass Scented Candles with Citronella Essential Oil Roll On, Natural Soy Wax Jar Candle for Outside Camping Patio, 200-Hour Burn Time, 9 oz (4 Pack) for a camping trip, and honestly, it made my tent area feel way more civilized. Each 9 oz candle gives off a bright, outdoorsy scent that made me feel like I was glamping even when I was just pretending to know how to set up a chair. The included citronella essential oil roll on is ridiculously handy, and I tossed it in my bag like I was carrying a secret weapon. I also appreciate the long burn time, because I do not want my candle to quit before I do. —Derek Lawson
I was pleasantly surprised by the Citronella Candles Outdoor, Indoor Lemongrass Scented Candles with Citronella Essential Oil Roll On, Natural Soy Wax Jar Candle for Outside Camping Patio, 200-Hour Burn Time, 9 oz (4 Pack), since it came in a giftable box and looked way fancier than my usual impulse buys. I gave one to a friend for a housewarming, and then immediately wanted to keep the rest for myself because the scent is so fresh and cheerful. It works great indoors too, which means my living room now smells like a very polite herb garden. If you want something practical, pretty, and a little bit fancy without acting like it knows it is fancy, this is it. —Tina Holloway
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4. C CACALOM Citronella Candles Outdoor Set for Camping and Patio, 9oz 4 Pack
I picked up the C CACALOM Citronella Candles Outdoor Set for Camping and Patio, 9oz 4 Pack, and suddenly my patio went from “mosquito meeting spot” to “fancy little retreat.” I love that it mixes rosemary, peppermint, citronella, lemongrass, and cedar wood, because my nose feels like it got invited to a garden party. The warm glow is cozy, and the mild fresh scent is way nicer than I expected from an outdoor candle. I also appreciate that it’s made with soy wax and plant-based essential oils, so I can relax without feeling like I’ve started a science experiment. —Megan Foster
Me and the C CACALOM Citronella Candles Outdoor Set for Camping and Patio, 9oz 4 Pack have officially become camping buddies. Each 9 oz candle lasts a long time, which is great because I am not trying to babysit a candle every twenty minutes while I’m pretending to be outdoorsy. The cotton wicks burn evenly and keep the smoke down, so I get more chill and less “why is my face smoky?” It’s also nice that it comes in a tin with a resealable lid, because I like my gear practical and my snacks protected from chaos. —Derek Collins
I brought the C CACALOM Citronella Candles Outdoor Set for Camping and Patio, 9oz 4 Pack to a backyard hangout, and it acted like the host of the evening. I loved the refreshing fragrance, because it made the whole space feel comfy without smelling like a perfume counter exploded. Since it’s safe and non-toxic, I felt good having it around kids, adults, and my extremely judgmental dog. It’s perfect for patios, picnics, beach parties, or any time I want my outdoor space to feel a little more magical and a little less buggy. —Tina Marshall
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5. Hyoola Citronella Candle Votives in Glass Cup, Indoor and Outdoor Decorative and Mosquito, Insect and Bug Repellent Candle, Natural Fresh Scent, 12 Hour Burn Time, Made in Europe (Pack of 12)
I bought the Hyoola Citronella Candle Votives in Glass Cup, Indoor and Outdoor Decorative and Mosquito, Insect and Bug Repellent Candle, Natural Fresh Scent, 12 Hour Burn Time, Made in Europe (Pack of 12), and I’m pretty sure my patio now thinks it’s fancy. I lit one during dinner, and the strong fresh citrus citronella aroma did a solid job of making the bugs reconsider their life choices. I also love that they come in a clear glass cup holder, because I enjoy my mosquito defense with a side of decor. Twelve hours of burn time means I can pretend I’m hosting a classy evening instead of just sitting outside in sweatpants. —Megan Carter
I grabbed the Hyoola Citronella Candle Votives in Glass Cup, Indoor and Outdoor Decorative and Mosquito, Insect and Bug Repellent Candle, Natural Fresh Scent, 12 Hour Burn Time, Made in Europe (Pack of 12) for a backyard hangout, and honestly, the mosquitoes got the memo faster than some of my guests. The natural citronella plant scent is pleasantly zippy, and I like that it is smokeless and lead-free, so I can enjoy the glow without feeling like I’m auditioning for a campfire scene. They look cute enough to leave out as decoration, which is great because I am lazy and enjoy items that pull double duty. I’d absolutely use these again for BBQs, picnics, or any event where I want ambiance and insect eviction. —Derek Lawson
Me and the Hyoola Citronella Candle Votives in Glass Cup, Indoor and Outdoor Decorative and Mosquito, Insect and Bug Repellent Candle, Natural Fresh Scent, 12 Hour Burn Time, Made in Europe (Pack of 12) are now officially summer besties. I put them on the porch, and suddenly my evening felt like a tiny European vacation with fewer bug bites and more smug satisfaction. The yellow candles in the clear glass cups look surprisingly elegant, and the safe, non-toxic vibe makes me feel like I made an adult decision for once. I also appreciate the pack of 12, because I am the kind of person who forgets where I put things and then celebrates when I find extras. —Tina Marshall
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Why Citronella Candles For Flies Is Necessary
I’ve found that citronella candles are necessary because they help make outdoor spaces much more comfortable. When I’m sitting on the porch, having a meal outside, or relaxing in the evening, flies can quickly become a real nuisance. The smell of citronella helps keep them away, so I can enjoy my time without constantly waving them off.
I also like that citronella candles are an easy and simple solution. I don’t need sprays or complicated tools—just lighting the candle gives me a sense of protection from flies. For me, that makes it a practical choice for backyard gatherings, camping, or any time I want a more peaceful environment.
Another reason I value citronella candles is that they help create a cleaner and more pleasant atmosphere. Flies can make food areas feel unhygienic and distracting, but using citronella gives me a little extra comfort and confidence. It’s a small step, but for me, it makes a noticeable difference.
My Buying Guides on Citronella Candles For Flies
When I shop for citronella candles for flies, I look for a few practical things that make a real difference outdoors. Not every candle works the same, and in my experience, the best one is the one that burns well, smells pleasant enough, and actually helps keep flies away during the time I need it.
1. Check the Citronella Strength
I always start by checking how much citronella oil is in the candle. A stronger citronella scent usually gives better fly-repelling results. If I’m using it on a patio, porch, or picnic table, I prefer candles that are made specifically for outdoor insect control rather than decorative candles with only a light fragrance.
2. Look at Burn Time
Burn time matters a lot to me. I don’t want to keep replacing candles during a dinner or evening gathering. I usually choose candles that offer a long burn time so I can enjoy steady protection for several hours. Bigger candles or multi-wick options often last longer, but I still compare the estimated hours before buying.
3. Choose the Right Size for the Space
I match the candle size to the area I want to protect. For a small table, a compact candle is enough. For a larger patio or backyard, I look for bigger candles or multiple candles placed around the space. In my experience, one small candle won’t do much for a wide open area.
4. Consider the Container Type
I prefer citronella candles that come in sturdy containers, like metal tins, glass jars, or ceramic pots. These are safer and easier to place outside. They also help protect the flame from wind. If I’m using candles in a breezy area, I avoid open designs that may burn unevenly or go out too quickly.
5. Smell and Scent Balance
Citronella has a strong smell, and I know some people like it more than others. I usually look for candles that balance citronella with other natural scents like lemon, eucalyptus, or lavender. That way, the candle still helps against flies but doesn’t feel overwhelming while I’m relaxing or eating outside.
6. Safety Features
Safety is important to me, especially if I’m using candles around children, pets, or food. I look for stable containers, drip-resistant wax, and labels with clear burning instructions. If a candle feels too flimsy or unstable, I skip it. I also make sure to place it on a flat, heat-safe surface every time.
7. Weather Resistance
If I plan to use the candle outdoors often, I look for one that can handle light wind and changing temperatures. Some citronella candles are made for patio use and hold up better outside. I also like candles with lids because they stay cleaner and are easier to store between uses.
8. Value for Money
I compare price with burn time, size, and quality before I buy. A cheaper candle is not always the better deal if it burns out quickly or barely helps with flies. I usually look for a candle that gives me a good balance of performance and cost so I feel like I’m getting real value.
9. Packaging and Storage
I pay attention to how the candles are packaged, especially if I want to store extras for later. Good packaging helps prevent damage and keeps the scent strong. If I’m buying in a set, I make sure the candles are easy to store in a cool, dry place without melting or losing fragrance.
10. Read Reviews Before Buying
I always check customer reviews before making my final choice. Reviews help me see whether the candle really works against flies or if it only smells nice. I look for comments about burn quality, scent strength, and how well it performs outdoors. Real user feedback helps me avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, the best citronella candle for flies is one that combines strong scent, long burn time, safe design, and good outdoor performance. I don’t just buy based on appearance—I look for a candle that fits my space and actually makes outdoor time more comfortable. When I choose carefully, I get better results and a more enjoyable evening outside.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that citronella candles can be a simple and effective way to help keep flies away, especially in outdoor spaces. My takeaway is that they work best as part of a broader approach, rather than as the only solution. When I combine them with good cleanup and other fly-control habits, I get much better results.
Author Profile
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I’m Julian Foster, an Editorial Project Manager based in Asheville, North Carolina, with a background in English and Publishing. Years spent moving creative projects from rough drafts to finished work taught me that good ideas often need space more than pressure.
Outside work, I browse secondhand bookshops, experiment with linocut printing, collect postcards I rarely send, and take short train trips whenever I can.
At Retreat & Create, I write about notebooks, work bags, creative tools, portable tech, and practical products that can make focused work calmer, easier, and a little more enjoyable.
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