Lady pours melted wax into hollowed orange peels. This DIY keeps bugs away from the patio table

Creating homemade citronella candles using hollowed orange peels is an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to enhance your outdoor living space. This project not only repurposes organic waste but also provides natural bug repellent for your patio or backyard. With a pleasant citrus aroma complementing the citronella scent, these candles are a stylish and functional addition to any outdoor gathering, keeping pesky insects at bay while adding a decorative touch to your patio table.

This DIY citronella candle fits seamlessly into a rustic or farmhouse-style outdoor setting, with its natural orange peel container adding a pop of color and an organic feel. Perfect for placing on patio tables, garden benches, or as part of a centerpiece, the candles' earthy tones and fresh citrus scent blend well with wooden furniture and greenery. They provide ambient lighting and a touch of elegance that enhances outdoor dining experiences or casual gatherings.

Fresh oranges (as many as desired, one per candle)

Cut each orange in half and carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a clean, hollowed peel. Be careful not to pierce the skin.

In a double boiler, melt the citronella wax, monitoring the temperature to ensure it doesn’t exceed 180°F. Stir occasionally.

Once the wax has melted, set aside to cool slightly until it reaches about 140°F.

Place a wick in the center of each hollowed orange peel, securing it upright.

Slowly pour the melted wax into each orange peel, filling up to just below the edge.

Allow the wax to cool and harden completely, approximately 4 hours.

Trim the wick to about 1/4 inch above the wax surface once fully set.

To customize your citronella candles, consider using other citrus fruits such as lemons or grapefruits, which provide different sizes and scents. For added durability and style, you can paint the outer peel with non-toxic waterproof paint for a more polished look. Adding essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus can provide additional fragrance and bug-repelling properties. For a more decorative touch, consider embedding dried flower petals or herbs into the wax as it cools. These candles can also be made in larger batches and stored in a cool, dry place for future use or as a unique handmade gift.