Mason Jar Citronella Candles 

Mason Jar Citronella Candles are the simple, budget-friendly solution you need if you’re tired of bugs ruining your time outside.

Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, relaxing on the porch, or planning a cozy evening on the patio, you want something that actually works—without spending a fortune or running to the store last minute.

The best part? These candles are a surprisingly easy craft idea to make!

A green Ball mason jar with a red and white checkered lid is used as a Mason Jar Citronella Candle, its flame gently burning. Text above reads: DIY Mason Jar Citronella Candles. The grassy background is softly blurred.

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How do you make citronella candles in mason jars?

  • Start by drilling a small hole in the center of your mason jar lid and threading a natural wick through it, leaving a couple of inches exposed at the top and the rest reaching the bottom of the jar.
  • Fill the jar with citronella oil or torch fuel, adding any extra essential oils if you’d like a custom scent, then secure the lid in place.
  • Finish by trimming the wick to about ¼ inch and decorating the jar if desired.
  • Your homemade citronella candle is now ready to use for patios, backyard nights, or camping trips.
A green Ball mason jar citronella candle with a red and white checkered lid and a thick white string poking through the center, sitting on a white wooden surface.

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Tips for Making DIY Citronella Candles in Mason Jars

  • Use the right wick – Natural cotton or hemp wicks burn cleaner and give you a more even flame, which helps your citronella candle last longer.
  • Don’t skip the lid fit – Make sure the wick is centered and the lid is secure—this keeps the flame steady and prevents uneven burning.
  • Customize your scent – Add a few drops of essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, or lemon to enhance the scent while still keeping the bug-repelling benefits.
  • Keep the wick trimmed – Trim to about ¼ inch before each use to avoid smoke and keep the flame controlled.
How to Make Mason Jar Citronella Candles

Can I use any mason jar?

Most standard glass mason jars work great, just make sure they’re heat-safe and sturdy.

How long do these candles last?

It depends on the size of your jar and wick, but they typically burn for several hours at a time.

Can I use wax instead of torch fuel?

Yes! Wax gives a more traditional candle, while torch fuel creates a longer-lasting outdoor option.

How to Make Mason Jar Citronella Candles

While you’re planning more time outside, be sure to check out these fun and easy ideas to make the most of your summer days, too.

  • Ice Cream Cone Bird Feeders are a simple and fun activity that lets kids create a sweet treat for backyard birds while enjoying some hands-on outdoor time.
  • These Summer Bucket List Ideas will help you fill your days with memorable, family-friendly activities that keep everyone excited all season long.
  • A Gardening Scavenger Hunt for Kids turns time in the yard into an adventure, encouraging little ones to explore nature while staying entertained.
  • Lemonade Recipes are perfect for cooling off on warm days and make a refreshing addition to any backyard hangout.
  • Camping Meal Ideas make outdoor cooking easy and stress-free, whether you’re heading to the campsite or just enjoying a night in your backyard.
A mason jar citronella candle with a red and white checkered lid sits on a table. A wick burns brightly above the clear liquid inside, while a blurred grassy background sets a summery scene.

DIY Mason Jar Citronella Candles

Learn how to make Mason Jar Citronella Candles with simple supplies. A quick, budget-friendly way to repel mosquitoes outdoors.
Print Pin Rate
Course: Fun
Keyword: DIY Citronella Candles in Mason Jars, DIY Mason Jar Citronella Candles
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 1 mason jar citronella candle
Author: momma lew
Cost: $5

Equipment

  • a screwdriver and hammer or a dremel

Ingredients

  • Tiki Torch replacement wicks or 1/8″ candle wicks
  • A Mason Jar with lid
  • Citronella

Instructions

  • I opted to use one of my mason jars and a lid meant to transform your mason jar into a cup. It worked perfectly for my purpose!
  • Just keep in mind if you do this, to remove the rubber stopper.
  • If you don't use a lid like this and decide to use the mason jar lid, use a screwdriver and hammer or a dremel to poke a hole in the middle of your lid.
  • Pull your wick through the hole, fill the jar with citronella and voila! A DIY Mason Jar Citronella Candle!

Notes

Tip: Having trouble getting the wick through the hole? Use a small piece of duct tape to wrap the end of the wick and then pull it through the hole.

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2 Comments

  1. Tee @ Beauteeful Living says:

    I love this DIY idea. I can definitely use these at my outdoor gatherings!

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