Eight years ago when deciding on paint for my older son’s nursery, I was worried about breathing in pain fumes while pregnant. The paint expert at Lowe’s said some brands of scented candles are more harmful than paint because they aren’t required to go through the same rigorous EPA testing. I went home that day and researched scented candles. I found out some pretty scary info. Not all candles with a smell are harmful, such as those made with soy and essential oils, but many candles emit chemicals and toxins that go straight into our bodies. Since that time, I’ve pretty much only used tea lights and a few unscented candles here and there.
Once I learned about the world of essential oils, I began diffusing oils which made the house smell great, but I kind of missed that combination of good smell and warm glow. A good friend of mine and I both love making DIY items with essential oils. Recently, she had the idea that we make DIY Citronella candles to use this summer. I was all about it. She and her kiddos came over a couple weeks ago, and adults and kids alike had fun making these quintessential summertime candles.
These candles are very easy to make, burn really well and smell divine. They’re perfect for outdoor entertaining and ensuring everyone is comfortable and happy while outside.
Supplies
- Small Mason jars
- Flaked soy wax (where to buy)
- Small rod or pencil
- Glass bowl or double boiler
- Young Living Citronella essential oil (where to buy)
- Smokeless candle wicks (where to buy)
Directions (these steps make one candle)
- Wrap the candle wick around the rod or pencil and gently place into the Mason jar, set aside
- Scoop 2.5 cups of wax flakes into glass bowl, heat in 30 second increments, stirring in between
- Add 25 drops of Citronella essential oil, stir (if you’re using a large Mason jar, add 10 drops of essential oil for every cup of wax flakes)
- Pour the melted wax into the Mason jar (make sure your jars are thoroughly cleaned)
- Let it sit until candle is completely hardened, remove the rod or pencil, and cut the wick
These DIY Citronella candles make awesome gifts for friends and family, and if you want to switch out the scents for other seasons or certain holidays, you simply follow this same recipe but use different essential oils. I hope you and yours are having a fabulous summer. It’s trucking along entirely too quickly for my taste. Happy candle making!
This blog post may contain affiliate links. As always, feel free to contact me if you have any questions while making your candles. Have fun!
Looks super easy. Will most definitely have to give a try because I am tired or get eaten alive while trying to sit outside! Thanks.