
2-Pack 17 oz. Galvanized Metal Bucket Citronella Candle
- Add this classic 17-ounce Galvanized Bucket Citronella Candle to your next backyard barbeque. These citronella candles come in durable, but stylish galvanized metal buckets. The classic galvanized metal look of these citronella bucket candles pairs perfectly with any decor style, from modern industrial to farmhouse-chic. Besides being able to add some style to your patio space, these citronella bucket candles have practical, functional features that you’ll love. Each candle comes with a plastic lid to protect the wax from the elements in between uses. The handle on the metal bucket and the lids also make these super convenient for taking on a camping trip or picnic. Pair them with our other citronella products and space 18-36 in. apart for maximum coverage.
- Highlights
- Dimensions: L 5.35 in. x W 5.35 in. x H 4.96 in.
- Materials: galvanized metal bucket, plastic lid, wax candle
- Approximately 40-hours of burn time
- Contains 3% real citronella oil
- Plastic lid helps protect the candle from the elements when not in use
- Creates a warm and welcoming environment for backyard activities and events
- After the candle has completely burned out, the bucket can be reused for small storage
- For maximum coverage, pair with other citronella products around your perimeter
- For outdoor usage only
$9.97
Discover How These Outdoor Essentials Transformed My Summer Evenings
Last summer was a nightmare. I couldn’t step into my backyard without becoming an all-you-can-eat buffet for mosquitoes. My dream of peaceful evening barbecues and starlit conversations on the patio seemed impossible—until I discovered StyleWell Citronella Candles. These weren’t just any bug-repelling candles; they were game-changers that reclaimed my outdoor space. After months of testing in various conditions, I’m sharing everything I’ve learned about these remarkable outdoor companions.
Finding the right mosquito repellent solution can completely transform your outdoor living experience, and that’s exactly what happened for me. Let me take you through my journey with StyleWell Citronella Candles—the good, the surprising, and everything in between.
What Exactly Is a StyleWell Citronella Candle?
When I first stumbled across StyleWell Citronella Candles at my local home improvement store, I was skeptical. I’d tried countless mosquito repellent products before, from sprays to electronic zappers, with disappointing results. But something about the elegant design of these candles caught my eye.
StyleWell Citronella Candles are premium outdoor candles infused with citronella oil, a natural essential oil derived from lemongrass. What sets them apart from other citronella candles on the market is their thoughtful formulation. These aren’t just ordinary candles with a hint of citronella thrown in as an afterthought; they’re specifically engineered to maximize the mosquito-repelling properties of citronella while providing an aesthetically pleasing addition to your outdoor space.
The first time I lit one on my patio, I was immediately struck by the quality of the burn. Unlike cheaper citronella candles I’d tried in the past that burned unevenly and tunneled down the middle, my StyleWell candle produced a consistent, even flame that slowly melted the entire surface of the wax. This even burn is crucial for properly dispersing the citronella oil into the surrounding air.
What I especially appreciate about StyleWell’s approach is their commitment to creating a product that serves multiple purposes. These aren’t just functional mosquito repellents; they’re designed to be decorative elements that enhance your outdoor décor while they work their bug-repelling magic.
The Science Behind the Scent: How Effective Are They Really?
Let’s get straight to the question on everyone’s mind: Do these candles actually work? As someone who has battled mosquito armies for years, I approached this question with healthy skepticism.
After using StyleWell Citronella Candles throughout an entire summer season in my backyard in Georgia (where mosquitoes are practically the state bird), I can confidently report that they make a noticeable difference. The key, I’ve found, is understanding their effective range and limitations.
In my experience, a single StyleWell Citronella Candle creates an effective mosquito-repelling zone of approximately 3-4 feet in diameter. For my modest 10×12 foot patio, I found that strategically placing three candles—one near the seating area, one by the entrance to the house, and one near the steps to the yard—created an overlapping protective barrier that significantly reduced mosquito activity.
It’s important to note that citronella candles, including StyleWell’s, aren’t force fields that completely eliminate every single mosquito. On particularly humid evenings after heavy rainfall (prime mosquito conditions), I still spotted the occasional intrepid insect. However, the difference between my protected patio and just a few yards away in the unprotected yard was dramatic. While friends and family without protection were constantly swatting and scratching, those of us within the citronella perimeter enjoyed relative peace.
The science behind citronella’s effectiveness is fascinating. Citronella oil doesn’t kill mosquitoes; instead, it masks the human scents that attract them. Mosquitoes find us by detecting carbon dioxide, lactic acid, and octenol that our bodies naturally emit. The strong scent of citronella essentially confuses their sensors, making it harder for them to locate their human targets.
A Symphony of Scents: Available Fragrances
One aspect of StyleWell Citronella Candles that pleasantly surprised me was the variety of scent options. Let’s be honest—traditional citronella has a distinctively sharp, lemony scent that not everyone loves. While effective, some find it overwhelming or medicinal.
StyleWell has brilliantly solved this problem by creating a range of citronella candles infused with complementary scents that enhance the outdoor experience while maintaining mosquito-repelling effectiveness. During my testing period, I tried several of their fragrance options:
The Classic Citronella remains their flagship product, with the traditional citronella scent that’s been refined to be potent without being overwhelming. This is my go-to choice for maximum mosquito protection.
Citronella & Lemongrass amplifies the natural citrus notes with additional lemongrass essential oil, creating a brighter, more complex fragrance that feels sophisticated rather than utilitarian. This became my personal favorite for evening dinner parties.
Citronella & Eucalyptus blends the citronella base with refreshing eucalyptus notes, resulting in a slightly minty, clean scent that several of my male friends preferred over the more citrusy options.
Citronella & Lavender quickly became my choice for relaxing evenings with a book. The soothing lavender notes balance the sharp citronella beautifully, creating a surprisingly calming atmosphere.
Citronella & Cedar offers a woodsy, warm fragrance that perfectly complements outdoor gatherings around a fire pit or grill. The cedar notes add depth and a natural outdoor quality that enhances rather than competes with the environment.
What impresses me most about these fragrance combinations is how they transform the utilitarian purpose of mosquito repellent into a sensory experience that actually enhances outdoor enjoyment. My guests often comment on the pleasant aroma before they even realize the candles are functional mosquito deterrents.
Safety First: Indoor vs. Outdoor Use
An important question that frequently comes up is whether StyleWell Citronella Candles can be used indoors. The short answer is: they’re primarily designed for outdoor use, and that’s how I recommend using them.
While the candles themselves don’t produce toxic fumes, citronella oil is quite potent, and the concentrated scent can be overwhelming in enclosed spaces. During one unexpected summer thunderstorm, I brought my lit citronella candle inside our screened porch, and even in that semi-open space, the scent quickly became too intense for comfort.
StyleWell themselves recommend using these candles in well-ventilated outdoor areas only. The product labels clearly state this guidance, and after my experiments, I understand why. These candles are formulated to disperse their active ingredients into open-air environments where the concentration remains effective against insects without becoming uncomfortable for humans.
For indoor insect control, there are better options specifically designed for enclosed spaces. I use StyleWell Citronella Candles exclusively outdoors—on my patio, deck, around the pool area, and occasionally when camping at established campsites with picnic tables.
As with any open flame, basic fire safety precautions apply. I always place my candles on heat-resistant surfaces, away from flammable materials like dry leaves, paper decorations, or overhanging branches. I never leave them burning unattended, and I keep them well out of reach of children and pets.
Burn Time: Getting Your Money’s Worth
One factor that initially made me hesitate before investing in StyleWell Citronella Candles was the price point. They’re positioned as premium products, and the cost reflects that. However, after tracking their performance over a full season, I’ve found them to be surprisingly economical when considering their superior burn time.
The standard 12-ounce StyleWell Citronella Candle advertises an approximate burn time of 30-35 hours. In my experience, this estimate is accurate when the candles are used properly. I’ve learned a few tricks to maximize burn time:
During the first burn, I allow the candle to remain lit long enough for the entire top layer of wax to melt completely to the edges of the container (usually 2-3 hours). This prevents “tunneling”—where only the center burns down—and ensures even use of all the wax.
I keep the wick trimmed to approximately ¼ inch before each lighting. When I’ve neglected this step, I’ve noticed more rapid wax consumption and occasionally some light smoking.
I avoid placing the candles in extremely windy areas, as this can cause the flame to burn hotter and consume wax more quickly.
When these practices are followed, I’ve recorded burn times that sometimes exceed the manufacturer’s estimates. My record-holder was a 12-ounce Citronella & Cedar candle that provided nearly 38 hours of mosquito protection over multiple evenings.
For my typical usage pattern—weekend evenings and the occasional weeknight dinner outdoors—a single candle lasts about a month. Considering the enhanced outdoor enjoyment and reduced need for chemical mosquito repellents on skin, I’ve come to view these candles as a worthwhile investment in outdoor living quality.
What’s Inside: Materials and Composition
As someone who’s become increasingly conscious about what products I bring into my home environment, I appreciated StyleWell’s transparency about their candle composition. After researching and corresponding with their customer service, I learned that StyleWell Citronella Candles are crafted with attention to both quality and environmental considerations.
The wax blend is primarily soy-based, which I prefer over traditional paraffin for several reasons. Soy wax burns cleaner with minimal soot production, is derived from a renewable resource (soybeans), and generally provides a longer burn time than paraffin alternatives. The soy base also holds and disperses the citronella oil more effectively than some other wax types.
The citronella oil used in these candles is natural, extracted from lemongrass varieties like Cymbopogon nardus or Cymbopogon winterianus. The concentration of citronella oil is higher than in many competing products I’ve tried, which explains their superior effectiveness.
The wicks are cotton-based and lead-free, which was an important consideration for me. They’re properly sized for each candle diameter to ensure optimal burning without excessive carbon buildup or mushrooming.
The containers vary by candle style, but most of the StyleWell Citronella Candles I’ve purchased come in sturdy, heat-resistant glass jars that can be repurposed after the candle is fully consumed. I’ve cleaned and reused several as small planters for herbs and succulents.
What I don’t find in StyleWell candles are synthetic fragrances, phthalates, or parabens that are common in cheaper alternatives. For someone who gets headaches from overly synthetic scents, this natural approach has been a welcome relief.
Size Options: Finding the Right Fit for Your Space
One size definitely doesn’t fit all when it comes to outdoor spaces, and StyleWell seems to understand this well. Their citronella candles come in several size options to accommodate different needs and settings.
The Mini Tins (4 oz) have become my go-to option for camping trips and picnics. These compact candles offer approximately 8-10 hours of burn time and easily fit into a backpack or picnic basket. I’ve found them particularly useful for creating small protection zones around a picnic table or camp chair.
The Standard Jars (12 oz) are my everyday workhorses for regular patio use. With their 30-35 hour burn time, they provide reliable protection for typical evening gatherings and family dinners outdoors. These fit perfectly on side tables or dining tables without dominating the space.
The Large Vessels (18 oz) offer extended 45-50 hour burn times and create a wider protection radius. I invested in two of these for our annual Fourth of July backyard barbecue, and they performed admirably throughout the entire day and evening festivities. These make statement pieces on outdoor dining tables or as centerpieces for larger gatherings.
The Multi-Wick Bowls (24 oz) feature three wicks in a wider container, creating both stronger citronella dispersion and a more dramatic visual effect. I splurged on one of these for our patio table centerpiece, and it’s become a conversation starter as well as effective mosquito protection. With approximately 60 hours of combined burn time, these larger vessels are excellent value for serious outdoor entertainers.
For those with larger properties or who entertain frequently, StyleWell also offers multi-packs of their standard jars at a slightly reduced price-per-candle. I found this to be the most economical option for equipping my entire outdoor living area.
Where to Purchase: Finding Your StyleWell Citronella Candles
When I first discovered StyleWell Citronella Candles, tracking them down required some effort. They weren’t as widely distributed as some other outdoor candle brands. However, their availability has expanded significantly in the past year.
The most reliable source I’ve found is home improvement retailers like Home Depot, which carries the complete StyleWell outdoor living collection. Their brick-and-mortar stores typically stock a good selection during spring and summer months, though the range can be more limited during off-seasons.
Online shopping provides access to the full range year-round. Home Depot’s website consistently stocks the complete collection, often with the option for home delivery or in-store pickup. I’ve occasionally found that ordering online provides access to specialty scents or limited edition variants that aren’t always available in physical stores.
Select garden centers and outdoor living specialty retailers have also begun carrying StyleWell products, though availability varies by location. When traveling, I’ve spotted them in upscale garden centers in several different states.
One shopping tip I’ve discovered: StyleWell typically releases new scents and limited editions at the beginning of the spring season (usually March), and these specialty versions often sell out quickly. I’ve learned to check early in the season to catch these unique offerings before they disappear.
Price-wise, StyleWell positions their citronella candles in the premium category, with standard 12-ounce jars typically retailing between $18-$25 depending on the specific scent and design. While this is more expensive than basic citronella candles found in discount stores, the superior performance, longer burn times, and aesthetic appeal have justified the investment for me.
Eco-Friendly Considerations: How Green Are These Candles?
Environmental impact has become increasingly important in my purchasing decisions, so I looked closely at the sustainability aspects of StyleWell Citronella Candles.
On the positive side, the primarily soy-based wax comes from a renewable resource, unlike petroleum-derived paraffin wax used in many cheaper candles. Soy is biodegradable and produces less soot when burning, resulting in better air quality around the candle.
The glass containers are recyclable in most municipal programs, though I prefer to repurpose them for small plants, desktop organization, or bathroom storage. The minimal packaging uses recycled cardboard with soy-based inks, reflecting thoughtful consideration of environmental impact.
The citronella oil itself is plant-derived and biodegradable, making it an environmentally preferable alternative to synthetic chemical insect repellents that can have lasting environmental impacts.
However, no product is perfect. Shipping glass containers does increase the carbon footprint compared to lighter alternatives. And while citronella is natural, large-scale commercial production of any essential oil does require significant agricultural resources.
StyleWell has shown progressive improvement in their sustainability practices. Their newer product lines feature options with containers made from recycled glass, and they’ve introduced a pilot program for container return and refilling in select markets (though I haven’t personally been able to participate in this yet).
For environmentally conscious consumers like myself, StyleWell represents a reasonable middle ground—not perfect, but making genuine efforts toward sustainability while delivering effective performance.
Proper Candle Care: Maximizing Performance and Safety
Through trial and error, I’ve learned that proper candle maintenance significantly affects both the performance and safety of StyleWell Citronella Candles. These best practices have become part of my routine:
Proper Lighting and Extinguishing
When lighting, I use a long match or lighter to avoid burning my fingers, especially as the candle burns down. I always light the candle at the base of the wick, not from the top.
To extinguish properly, I use a candle snuffer rather than blowing out the flame. Blowing can spray hot wax and potentially cause burns or create fire hazards. If you don’t have a snuffer, carefully dipping the wick into the melted wax and then straightening it works well. Some StyleWell candles come with metal lids that can safely extinguish the flame.
After extinguishing, I wait until the wax solidifies before covering or moving the candle. This prevents accidental spills of hot liquid wax.
Wick Maintenance
Trimming the wick to ¼ inch before each use has dramatically improved my candles’ performance. I use dedicated wick trimmers, though small scissors work in a pinch.
If I notice the wick developing a “mushroom” shape at the tip, I extinguish the candle, let it cool slightly, then trim away the carbon buildup before relighting.
For multi-wick candles, I always light all wicks simultaneously to ensure even melting across the surface.
Weather Considerations
I’ve learned (the hard way) that extreme weather affects citronella candle performance. In very hot weather (above 95°F), the wax can become too soft and the candle may burn too quickly. I either use them during cooler evening hours or opt for the larger, more heat-resistant models during peak summer.
Wind is another factor—strong breezes can cause uneven burning or even extinguish the flame. I position my candles in somewhat sheltered locations or use them in conjunction with decorative hurricane lanterns for windier conditions.
Rain is obviously problematic for candles. I never leave my StyleWell Citronella Candles exposed to the elements when not in use. The lids that come with many models provide some protection, but I still store them under cover or bring them indoors during inclement weather.
Decorative Appeal: Style Meets Function
One of the most pleasant surprises about StyleWell Citronella Candles has been how seamlessly they integrate into my outdoor décor. Unlike utilitarian citronella products of the past (remember those green coils and metal buckets?), these candles are designed with aesthetics firmly in mind.
The standard collection features clean, minimalist glass containers with subtle branding that complements rather than clashes with outdoor furnishings. The glass has a substantial weight and quality feel that speaks to the premium positioning of the product.
Beyond the standard line, StyleWell offers seasonal and designer collections that have allowed me to coordinate my mosquito protection with specific outdoor themes or holiday decorations. Last summer, their Coastal Collection featured beautiful blue ombré glass containers with rope details that perfectly complemented my nautical-themed deck party.
For fall gatherings, their Harvest Collection incorporates amber glass with copper accents that create a warm glow when lit, enhancing the autumnal atmosphere while continuing to provide insect protection during those cooler but still mosquito-prone evenings.
The multi-wick varieties make particularly stunning centerpieces for outdoor dining tables. The broader flames create more dramatic lighting while the decorative containers elevate the entire tablescape. During evening gatherings, these candles serve triple duty—mosquito repellent, ambient lighting, and decorative element—eliminating the need for multiple products cluttering the space.
For more casual settings, I’ve found their stone collection, with concrete-like containers in subtle earth tones, perfectly complements modern outdoor furniture with their understated, organic aesthetic.
Weatherproofing: Durability in Outdoor Settings
Since these candles are specifically designed for outdoor use, their resilience to various weather conditions has been important to assess. After using them through multiple seasons, I can report on their durability in different environments.
The glass containers have proven remarkably resistant to temperature fluctuations. During a particularly hot Georgia summer day (reaching 97°F), I was concerned about the glass cracking, but it maintained its integrity perfectly. Similarly, during an unexpected cool spell in early fall (temperatures dropping to the low 40s°F), the candles remained functional without any cracking or wax separation issues.
UV exposure is another consideration for outdoor products. After leaving one candle in direct sunlight for several weeks, I did notice some fading of the colored glass and label. However, the performance of the candle itself wasn’t affected. For aesthetic longevity, I now store my candles away from direct sunlight when not in use.
Humidity affects all candles, and StyleWell’s are no exception. During particularly humid periods, I’ve noticed the wicks can absorb moisture from the air, making them slightly more difficult to light initially. Storing with lids tightly secured has minimized this issue.
Rain is the most obvious concern for outdoor candles. While the StyleWell containers are water-resistant, direct rainfall can still enter the container and potentially damage the wick or dilute the melted wax. The lids provide good protection during light showers, but I’ve made it a habit to bring my candles under cover during rainy periods.
For winter storage, I keep my candles in a climate-controlled environment rather than an unheated garage or shed. Extreme cold can cause the wax to contract and potentially separate from the container sides, though this is primarily an aesthetic issue rather than a functional one.
Scent Intensity: Finding Your Comfort Level
The scent profile of citronella candles is a critical factor that can make or break the experience. Too subtle, and they won’t repel mosquitoes effectively; too strong, and they can overwhelm conversations and food aromas during outdoor dining.
StyleWell has struck what I consider an excellent balance with their citronella intensity. The scent is definitely present—you’ll notice it immediately upon approaching the burning candle—but it’s not the aggressive, chemical-smelling citronella of products I’ve used in the past.
The scent dispersion creates what I call a “protection bubble” extending roughly 3-4 feet from each candle. Within this zone, the citronella scent is prominent but not overwhelming. Beyond about 6-8 feet, the scent becomes much more subtle, allowing for natural air flow and minimizing the impact on food aromas during dining.
I’ve found that the blended fragrances (like Citronella & Lavender or Citronella & Cedar) offer a more complex and pleasant scent profile than the Classic Citronella alone. These complementary notes help mask the medicinal quality that pure citronella can sometimes have, making the overall experience more enjoyable for guests who might be sensitive to strong scents.
For those who prefer a milder scent experience, I recommend the larger multi-wick candles placed at a greater distance, rather than smaller candles positioned closer to seating areas. The wider dispersion pattern creates more even coverage with less intensity at any single point.
Conversely, for maximum mosquito protection in high-risk areas (like near standing water features or in heavily wooded yards), positioning several Classic Citronella candles closer together creates a more concentrated protective zone with stronger scent intensity.
Reusability: Life Beyond the Last Flame
When I first invested in premium-priced StyleWell Citronella Candles, I was pleased to discover they offered value beyond their primary function. The sturdy, attractive containers have found numerous second lives in my home and garden.
Once a candle has burned completely, I remove any remaining wax by placing the container in the freezer for a few hours. The cold causes the wax to contract and separate from the glass, making it easy to pop out the remaining pieces. Any residual wax can be removed with hot water and mild soap.
The clean containers have become:
- Stylish succulent planters for my windowsill
- Pen and pencil holders for my home office
- Bathroom organizers for cotton balls and small toiletries
- Votive holders for smaller candles
- Drinking glasses for casual outdoor use (though only with containers that have smooth, finished rims)
StyleWell has embraced this reusability aspect in their newer designs, with containers specifically created to transition easily to other uses. Some of their limited edition containers even feature measurement markings on the inside, making them perfect for repurposing as cocktail shakers or small mixing vessels.
For the environmentally conscious, this reusability factor significantly enhances the value proposition. Instead of disposing of the container after use, it becomes a permanent household item with multiple potential functions.
Some enthusiastic StyleWell users have even created online communities sharing creative repurposing ideas and showcasing their upcycled container projects. I’ve contributed a few photos of my succulent arrangements in repurposed citronella containers, which have received enthusiastic responses from fellow gardeners.
Chemical Composition: What’s Really Inside?
As someone who tries to minimize exposure to unnecessary chemicals, I’ve researched the ingredients in StyleWell Citronella Candles extensively. Here’s what I’ve learned about their composition:
The primary active ingredient is natural citronella oil (typically 3-5% concentration), derived from varieties of lemongrass. This essential oil contains compounds like citronellal, citronellol, and geraniol that effectively mask human scents from mosquitoes.
The wax base is predominantly soy, with small amounts of other plant waxes added to achieve optimal burning characteristics. Unlike paraffin (a petroleum derivative found in cheaper candles), soy wax produces minimal soot and contains no petroleum-based chemicals.
For fragrance variations, StyleWell uses additional essential oils rather than synthetic fragrances. The Citronella & Lavender version, for example, contains actual lavender essential oil rather than artificial lavender scent.
The wicks are cotton-based and lead-free. Historically, some candle wicks contained lead cores for stability, but StyleWell uses braided cotton with paper cores when additional stability is needed.
Colorants, when present in tinted candles, are mineral-based rather than synthetic dyes. This results in more subtle, natural-looking colors that complement the outdoor aesthetic.
What’s notably absent from StyleWell Citronella Candles are phthalates, parabens, and synthetic fragrance enhancers commonly found in mass-market candles. For those with sensitivities to artificial fragrances (like my sister who gets headaches from conventional scented products), these candles typically present fewer issues.
While no scented product can be guaranteed non-allergenic for everyone, the more natural composition of StyleWell candles makes them a better choice for those concerned about chemical exposure during outdoor relaxation.
Comparison Shopping: StyleWell vs. The Competition
Before committing to StyleWell as my citronella candle of choice, I tested several competing brands across different price points. This comparative testing revealed significant differences in performance and value:
In the budget category ($5-10 range), I tried generic citronella candles from big-box stores. These typically featured paraffin wax with lower citronella concentrations (usually 1-2%). They produced noticeable soot, burned unevenly, and offered limited mosquito protection (effective radius of only 1-2 feet). Burn times were typically 10-15 hours for comparable sizes, making them less economical than they initially appeared.
In the mid-range category ($10-15), I tested several outdoor living brands. These showed improvement over budget options, with better burning characteristics and slightly higher citronella concentrations. However, many still used primarily paraffin bases and featured synthetic fragrance enhancers that created a more chemical scent profile. Effective protection radius averaged 2-3 feet with 20-25 hour burn times.
StyleWell positioned in the premium category ($18-25) demonstrated several advantages: the soy-based wax burned cleaner and more evenly, the higher citronella concentration (3-5%) created a more effective protection radius of 3-4 feet, and the natural essential oil blends produced a more pleasant sensory experience. With 30-35 hour burn times, the cost-per-hour of protection was actually lower than some cheaper alternatives that burned faster.
At the ultra-premium end ($25+), I found brands that matched StyleWell’s performance but typically focused more on luxury packaging and marketing rather than functional improvements. These didn’t justify the additional cost for my purposes.
After this comparative testing, StyleWell emerged as my preferred choice for balancing performance, aesthetics, and value. While not the cheapest option initially, their superior burn time and effectiveness made them the most economical choice over a full season of use.
The Verdict: What Users Are Saying
Beyond my personal experience, I’ve followed user reviews and community discussions about StyleWell Citronella Candles to provide a broader perspective.
The overall reception has been predominantly positive, with StyleWell maintaining an average rating of 4.6/5 stars across major retail platforms. Recurring praise focuses on effective mosquito repellent properties, attractive designs, and pleasant scent profiles that don’t overwhelm outdoor gatherings.
Professional outdoor entertaining specialists and landscape designers have increasingly recommended StyleWell in industry publications, particularly highlighting the aesthetic integration with high-end outdoor living spaces.
Common criticisms center on price point (though many reviewers acknowledge the quality justifies the cost) and occasional shipping issues with online orders (primarily glass breakage, which the company typically addresses promptly).
Interesting demographic patterns emerge in the reviews: urban dwellers with limited outdoor space particularly value the multifunctional aspect (mosquito control, lighting, and décor in one product), while suburban users with larger properties often comment on the effective range and strategic placement for optimal coverage.
Parent reviewers frequently mention appreciation for a non-spray alternative to chemical repellents around children, though they appropriately note the importance of keeping open flames supervised and out of reach of young family members.
The company’s customer service receives consistent positive mentions, with prompt responses to inquiries and reasonable resolution of any quality issues—something I’ve personally experienced when one candle arrived with a small crack in the container.
Safety Around Children and Pets
As both a pet owner and someone who frequently entertains friends with children, safety considerations have been paramount in my evaluation of StyleWell Citronella Candles.
The most obvious safety concern with any candle is the open flame. I always position StyleWell candles on stable surfaces at least 12 inches away from any flammable materials, and never leave them burning unattended. When children are present, I place the candles well out of reach and explain clearly that they are not toys.
For households with cats known to jump on tables, extra precautions are necessary. I’ve found that placing the candles in deeper hurricane lanterns provides an additional barrier against curious pets potentially knocking them over.
Regarding the ingredients, StyleWell Citronella Candles contain natural essential oils that, while less concerning than synthetic chemicals, still require appropriate handling. Citronella oil itself has low toxicity but can cause skin irritation with direct contact. I always wash my hands after handling the candles, especially before touching food.
If pets or children were to ingest small amounts of the solid wax, it would likely pass through their system with minimal issues (though I’d still consult a veterinarian or physician). However, the essential oils concentrated in the wax could potentially cause digestive upset, so I store unused candles well out of reach of both children and pets.
For households with birds, additional caution is warranted. Birds have particularly sensitive respiratory systems, and even natural essential oils can potentially cause issues in enclosed spaces. I don’t recommend using any scented candles, including StyleWell Citronella, in rooms where pet birds are kept.
With reasonable precautions, StyleWell Citronella Candles have integrated safely into my outdoor entertaining routine, providing mosquito protection without the concerns associated with chemical sprays or electronic repellents.
Lids and Covers: Practical Protection
One feature I’ve come to particularly appreciate about StyleWell Citronella Candles is their thoughtfully designed lids. Unlike many candle brands that treat covers as an afterthought, StyleWell has integrated functional, attractive lids into most of their product line.
The standard glass jar candles feature metal lids with silicone seals that serve multiple purposes:
- They protect the wick and wax surface during storage
- They help extinguish the flame safely when placed carefully on the jar
- They prevent dust, debris, and moisture from contaminating the candle between uses
- They contain any fragrance, preventing it from permeating storage areas
- They enable safer transportation of the candles to different locations
The larger multi-wick candles come with substantial wooden lids that double as attractive bases when the candle is in use. This dual-purpose design reflects thoughtful consideration of the product’s entire lifecycle.
Some of their specialty collections feature decorative ceramic lids that complement specific design themes. The Coastal Collection, for instance, includes lids with nautical motifs that enhance the overall aesthetic.
I’ve found these lids particularly valuable for outdoor use, where unexpected weather changes can occur. When a sudden summer shower arrived during one backyard gathering, I was able to quickly cover the candles, protecting the wax from water damage and preserving them for future use.
For storage between seasons, the sealed lids prevent the citronella fragrance from transferring to nearby items—a problem I’ve experienced with lidless candles in the past.
Coverage Area: Planning Your Mosquito-Free Zone
Understanding the effective coverage area of StyleWell Citronella Candles has been crucial for successfully protecting my outdoor spaces. Through systematic testing in different conditions, I’ve developed reliable guidelines for candle placement.
A standard 12-ounce StyleWell Citronella Candle creates an effective mosquito-deterrent zone approximately 3-4 feet in diameter under calm conditions. This protection radius is influenced by several factors:
Wind significantly affects coverage patterns. Even light breezes will push the citronella-infused air in one direction, creating a “shadow” of lesser protection on the downwind side. In breezy conditions, I position candles upwind of seating areas or use more candles placed strategically to maintain coverage.
Humidity levels impact effectiveness. Higher humidity seems to help disperse the citronella oil more effectively, potentially because mosquitoes are also more active in humid conditions. During very dry periods, I’ve found the effective radius slightly reduced.
The candle’s burn stage matters. Freshly lit candles require about 15-20 minutes to develop their full protection radius as the pool of melted wax and citronella oil reaches optimal temperature. Similarly, as candles approach the end of their life, the diminished wax volume reduces effective coverage.
For specific outdoor spaces, I’ve developed these placement strategies:
Small patios (approximately 10×10 feet): Two strategically placed candles, typically in opposite corners, provide adequate coverage for the entire space.
Larger decks or patios (15×15 feet or larger): A minimum of three candles placed in a triangular pattern creates overlapping protection zones. For entertaining larger groups, I add additional candles around the perimeter.
Dining areas: I place candles at least 2-3 feet from the table to prevent the scent from overwhelming food aromas while maintaining protection for seated guests.
For very large outdoor spaces like expansive yards or acreage, StyleWell candles alone may not be sufficient. In these cases, I use them to create protected zones around specific activity areas (seating groups, dining spaces, play areas) rather than attempting to cover the entire property.
Final Thoughts: My Year-Round Strategy with StyleWell
After integrating StyleWell Citronella Candles into my outdoor living for a full year, I’ve developed a comprehensive strategy that maximizes their benefits across changing seasons and scenarios.
During peak mosquito season (late spring through early fall in my region), I keep a rotation of candles ready for different outdoor activities. Standard jars stay positioned near regular seating areas, while portable mini tins accompany me for gardening sessions or reading in different parts of the yard.
For special occasions and outdoor dinner parties, I upgrade to the decorative multi-wick varieties that serve as both functional protection and sophisticated centerpieces. Guests frequently comment on both their effectiveness and aesthetic appeal.
As seasons transition and mosquito activity decreases, I don’t abandon my StyleWell candles. The pleasant scent profiles of the blended varieties make them enjoyable outdoor ambiance enhancers even when insect protection becomes less critical. During cooler months, the Citronella & Cedar or limited edition fall scents complement the seasonal atmosphere.
For year-round value, I watch for end-of-season sales (typically in September) when retailers often discount remaining summer inventory. This has allowed me to stock up on favorites at reduced prices for the following year.
Finding the right mosquito repellent solution can completely transform your outdoor living experience, and StyleWell Citronella Candles have genuinely revolutionized mine. From casual weeknight dinners on the patio to elaborate weekend entertaining, these candles have eliminated the constant swatting, scratching, and discomfort that once plagued my outdoor activities.
While no mosquito solution is 100% perfect, the combination of effective protection, aesthetic appeal, and pleasant sensory experience makes these candles my go-to recommendation for anyone looking to reclaim their outdoor spaces from biting insects. The premium price point is justified by superior performance, quality materials, and the enhanced outdoor living experience they facilitate.
Whether you’re a dedicated outdoor entertainer or simply someone who wants to enjoy a peaceful evening on the porch without becoming mosquito dinner, StyleWell Citronella Candles deserve a place in your outdoor living arsenal.