Summer is in full swing, and it’s the perfect time to fire up the barbecue or head out to your lake house. What’s not so perfect? Mosquitoes. These devious insects are sure to spoil your favorite summer weekend, but by following the “recipe” below, pesky mosquitoes will meet their match.
If you are tired of spraying synthetic chemicals on yourself and your plants, try making your own citronella candles. By you controlling the amount of citronella oil within the candle, this option is much more powerful, will last longer, and will be much cheaper.
What you need:
– Jars, such as mason jars
– Wicks
– Duct tape OR hot glue gun
– Wax (in bar or flaked form)
– Citronella oil
– Crayons (optional)
Start by securing the wick to the bottom of your jar by using some duct tape or using hot glue. Go ahead and keep the jars on a low temperature in the oven, while you prepare the wax. Keeping the jars warm will help the wax cool and disperse evenly. Melt the wax flakes in a mixing bowl, placed on top of a pot of boiling water. The wax will start to look clear, resembling olive oil. Drop in some citronella oil, about three drops per cup of wax. For a fun touch, stir in some old crayons to give the candle some color. Lastly, pour the wax into the prepared jars, allow them to dry, and place throughout your patio or yard.