Enjoying the outdoors without pesky bugs is totally possible with a few simple, natural tricks! These DIY mason jar bug repellents are a charming and effective way to keep mosquitoes and other insects at bay.
They add a lovely ambiance to your patio or garden while filling the air with fresh, natural scents..
Table of Contents
1. Natural Bug Repellent with Citrus, Herbs & Essential Oils
Keep your outdoor spaces bug-free with these easy-to-make mason jar luminaries.
They feature a vibrant mix of lemon, lime, and rosemary, enhanced by essential oils like lavender and cedarwood for an extra repellent boost.
These jars not only work wonders but also add a beautiful, rustic touch to your patio decor..
Key Ingredients:
- Lemon slices
- Lime slices
- Rosemary sprigs
- Lavender essential oil
- Cedarwood essential oil
- Floating candles
Benefits:
- Natural bug deterrence
- Creates a pleasant aroma
- Attractive outdoor decor
Pro Tip: Swap out rosemary for basil or peppermint if you have those on hand for a similar effect.
Get the Recipe: Natural Bug Repellent with Citrus, Herbs & Essential Oils
2. Lovely Lemon & Herb Floating Candle Luminaries
Elevate your outdoor gatherings with these decorative and functional luminaries that naturally repel mosquitoes.
They combine fresh lemons, limes, and herbs with a blend of essential oils for a heavenly scent that bugs don't like.
These pretty jars add ambiance while keeping your space pest-free..
Key Ingredients:
- Rosemary
- Basil
- Lavender
- Lemons
- Limes
- Floating candles
- Essential oils
Benefits:
- Natural insect repellent
- Enhances outdoor ambiance
- Pretty table decoration
Pro Tip: For an extra layer of protection, try using floating citronella candles.
Get the Recipe: Lovely Lemon & Herb Floating Candle Luminaries
3. Rosemary & Citrus Homemade Bug Repellent Jars
Create a bug-free outdoor oasis with these charming homemade repellent jars.
They use a fresh blend of rosemary, lemon, and lime infused in water with rosemary essential oil, topped with a floating tea light.
These jars are not only budget-friendly and eco-friendly but also beautifully scent your space while deterring pests..
Key Ingredients:
- Rosemary essential oil
- Lemon
- Key limes
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
- Tea light candles
- Water
Benefits:
- Natural and safe bug repellent
- Eco-friendly and reusable
- Adds glowing decor
Pro Tip: You can experiment with other essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus, or peppermint for varied scents and bug-repelling effects.
Get the Recipe: Rosemary & Citrus Homemade Bug Repellent Jars
4. Pretty Lemon & Herb Bug Repellent Luminaries
Say goodbye to pesky mosquitoes with these attractive DIY luminaries! They combine citrus slices, fresh herbs, and essential oils in a mason jar, creating a natural repellent that smells wonderful.
These are super easy to make and add a lovely decorative touch to your patio or garden, keeping the bugs away in style..
Key Ingredients:
- Rosemary essential oil
- Lemon
- Key limes
- Fresh rosemary sprigs
- Tea light candles
- Mason jars
Benefits:
- Effective bug repellent
- Fast and easy to make
- Pretty centerpiece
Pro Tip: These are so quick to make, you can whip them up in under 5 minutes!
Get the Recipe: Pretty Lemon & Herb Bug Repellent Luminaries
5. Natural Bug Spray with Essential Oils
Wave goodbye to pesky bugs with this easy-to-make natural bug spray! It uses a blend of essential oils and witch hazel to create a refreshing scent that mosquitoes and other biting insects dislike.
Perfect for use on skin or clothing, it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors without the chemical worries.
Keep a bottle handy for all your summer adventures!.
Key Ingredients:
- Witch Hazel
- Essential Oil Blend (Plant Therapy Nature Shield or Shield Me)
- Glass Spray Bottle
Benefits:
- Natural Bug Repellent
- Kid-Safe Options Available
- Toxin-Free
Pro Tip: This recipe has a version safe for kids aged two and up. For younger babies, try spraying it on their clothing or stroller canopy, avoiding direct skin contact.
Get the Recipe: Natural Bug Spray with Essential Oils
6. Homemade Essential Oil Bug Spray
This simple DIY bug spray is your secret weapon against buzzing nuisances! It combines witch hazel, distilled water, and a blend of potent essential oils like citronella and lemongrass.
The fresh, clean scent not only smells lovely but also effectively deters mosquitoes and other biting insects.
It’s a fantastic alternative to conventional sprays, perfect for the whole family – and even your dog!.
Key Ingredients:
- Witch Hazel
- Distilled Water
- Citronella Essential Oil
- Lemongrass Essential Oil
- Lavender Essential Oil
- Peppermint Essential Oil
- Basil Essential Oil
Benefits:
- Effective Mosquito Repellent
- All-Natural Ingredients
- Pleasant Scent
Pro Tip: This spray can also be used in and around your chicken coop to help keep flies and mites away from your flock. Just avoid spraying it directly on the chickens.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Essential Oil Bug Spray
7. DIY Citronella and Lemongrass Bug Spray
Create a powerful, natural shield against bugs with this DIY spray.
It highlights the effectiveness of citronella and lemongrass essential oils, known for their bug-repelling properties.
Mixed with witch hazel, this spray offers a delightful, fresh scent while keeping pesky insects at bay.
You’ll love having complete control over the ingredients and enjoying a pleasant aroma during your outdoor adventures..
Key Ingredients:
- Witch Hazel or Alcohol
- Citronella Essential Oil
- Lemongrass Essential Oil
Benefits:
- Customizable Scent
- Effective Against Bugs
- Natural Ingredients
Pro Tip: For maximum protection, reapply this spray every 2-3 hours, especially after sweating or swimming, as natural ingredients may not last as long as synthetic ones.
Get the Recipe: DIY Citronella and Lemongrass Bug Spray
8. Lemon, Lime, and Rosemary Citronella Candles
Light up your outdoor space and keep bugs away with these charming DIY citronella candles! Infused with citronella oil, fresh lemon, lime, and rosemary, they create a lovely ambiance while offering a natural repellent effect.
These beautiful candles are super easy to make and perfect for garden parties or relaxing evenings on the patio.
Enjoy the fresh, uplifting scents!.
Key Ingredients:
- Lemon
- Lime
- Rosemary Sprigs
- Citronella Essential Oil
- Floating Candles
- Water
- Mason Jar
Benefits:
- Natural Mosquito Repellent
- Creates Ambiance
- Easy to Make
Pro Tip: To enhance the anti-mosquito scent, prepare these candles the day before you plan to use them. This allows the rosemary to infuse into the water for a stronger aroma.
Get the Recipe: Lemon, Lime, and Rosemary Citronella Candles
9. Mason Jar Bug Repellent Candles with Essential Oils
These delightful mason jar candles are a simple and beautiful way to deter bugs.
By combining fresh lemons, limes, rosemary, and a few drops of lemongrass or citronella essential oil, you create a wonderfully scented candle that naturally repels mosquitoes.
They’re perfect for brightening up your summer gatherings and keeping the pests at bay, all while adding a charming touch to your decor..
Key Ingredients:
- Lemons
- Limes
- Rosemary Sprigs
- Lemongrass or Citronella Essential Oil
- Water
- Tea Light Candles or Floating Candles
- Glass Jars
Benefits:
- Keeps Bugs Away
- Smells Great
- Pretty and Decorative
Pro Tip: For a fresh batch, it’s recommended to change out the jar contents every couple of days to maintain maximum freshness and effectiveness.
Get the Recipe: Mason Jar Bug Repellent Candles with Essential Oils
10. Easy Mason Jar Citronella Candles
Keep those pesky mosquitoes from crashing your outdoor fun with these easy DIY citronella candles! Made in mason jars, they combine olive oil with natural citronella oil, creating a flickering light that also acts as a bug deterrent.
The floating wick design makes them incredibly simple to assemble, and they’re a charming, effective way to enjoy your backyard evenings..
Key Ingredients:
- Mason Jar
- Glass Gems, Stones, or Sand
- Water
- Olive Oil
- Citronella Oil
- Floating Candle Wicks
Benefits:
- Natural Bug Deterrent
- Simple Floating Wick Design
- Charming Outdoor Decor
Pro Tip: You can reuse these candles by simply replacing the floating wick and refilling the olive and citronella oils when needed. Screw the lid back on to save for another use.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mason Jar Citronella Candles
11. DIY Mosquito Repellent Candles with Citronella & Lavender
These charming DIY mosquito repellent candles are perfect for creating a relaxing ambiance while keeping bugs away.
Made with natural ingredients like soy wax and essential oils such as citronella, lavender, and eucalyptus, they offer a pleasant aroma and effective protection.
They're a wonderful, budget-friendly way to enjoy your patio or backyard..
Key Ingredients:
- Beeswax or Soy Wax
- Coconut Oil
- Citronella Essential Oil
- Lavender Essential Oil
- Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Benefits:
- Natural Bug Repellent
- Customizable Scents
- Budget-Friendly
- Eco-Friendly
Pro Tip: Mix and match essential oils like peppermint or basil for a unique scent blend, or add dried herbs for extra visual appeal.
Get the Recipe: DIY Mosquito Repellent Candles with Citronella & Lavender
12. Effective DIY Mosquito Repellent Candles
Create your own effective mosquito repellent candles with this simple guide.
By using natural ingredients like soy wax and a blend of potent essential oils such as citronella, lemongrass, and eucalyptus, you can ward off mosquitoes naturally.
These candles are not only affordable but also safer for your family and the environment, offering a lovely scent for your outdoor gatherings..
Key Ingredients:
- Soy wax flakes
- Cotton wicks
- Citronella essential oil
- Lemongrass essential oil
- Eucalyptus essential oil
- Lavender oil
Benefits:
- Natural Mosquito Repellent
- Cost-Effective
- Safer Ingredients
- Customizable Aroma
Pro Tip: For best results, light your candle 30 minutes before outdoor activities to establish a protective zone, and use multiple candles for larger areas.
Get the Recipe: Effective DIY Mosquito Repellent Candles
13. Easy DIY Citronella Candle for Bug-Free Evenings
Enjoy your outdoor time without the bother of bugs with this simple DIY Citronella Candle.
Made with clean-burning soy wax and the classic bug-repelling scent of citronella, this candle offers a fresh, lemony aroma.
It's a fantastic, non-toxic, and cost-effective alternative to commercial bug sprays, perfect for patios and camping trips..
Key Ingredients:
- Soy wax
- Citronella essential oil
- Glass jar
- Candle wick
Benefits:
- Natural Bug Repellent
- Pleasant Scent
- Non-Toxic
- Cost-Effective
Pro Tip: Adding a little coconut oil to the wax can help enhance the candle's scent throw. Let the candle cure for 24 hours before burning for the best fragrance release.
Get the Recipe: Easy DIY Citronella Candle for Bug-Free Evenings
14. DIY Citronella Candle Jars for Outdoor Entertaining
Keep pesky mosquitos away while you entertain outdoors with these beautiful DIY Citronella Candle Jars.
These jars use potent citronella essential oil to effectively repel bugs and can be customized with fresh herbs and citrus slices for a gorgeous centerpiece.
They're an affordable and fun way to enjoy bug-free gatherings..
Key Ingredients:
- Jars
- Fresh herbs
- Citrus slices
- Citronella oil
- Floating candles
- Water
Benefits:
- Bug Repellent
- Decorative
- Customizable
- Affordable
Pro Tip: Explore adding different herbs like lavender, mint, or basil to enhance both the effectiveness and the aroma of your jars.
Get the Recipe: DIY Citronella Candle Jars for Outdoor Entertaining
15. Mason Jar Citronella Lavender Candle
Create your own effective and visually appealing bug repellent with this DIY Mason Jar Citronella Lavender Candle.
The blend of citronella, lavender, peppermint, and lemongrass essential oils offers a pleasant scent that effectively keeps bugs at bay.
It's a safe, money-saving, and cute alternative to store-bought candles, perfect for outdoor enjoyment..
Key Ingredients:
- Soy wax flakes or beeswax pellets
- Mason jars
- Wicks
- Citronella essential oil
- Lavender essential oil
- Peppermint essential oil
- Lemongrass essential oil
Benefits:
- Natural Bug Repellent
- Pleasant Scent
- Safe for Outdoors
- Decorative
Pro Tip: For safety, always burn these candles outdoors. Decorate your jars with ribbons, twine, or printables for an extra personal touch.
Get the Recipe: Mason Jar Citronella Lavender Candle
16. Natural DIY Mason Jar Citronella Candles
These DIY Mason Jar Citronella Candles offer a natural and safe way to keep bugs from bothering you during outdoor evenings.
Made with soy wax and good quality citronella essential oil, they are a healthier alternative to store-bought options.
Enjoy your patio or backyard gatherings without the worry of unwanted insect guests..
Key Ingredients:
- Soy wax
- Mason Jars
- Candle wicks
- Citronella oil
Benefits:
- Natural Bug Repellent
- Safe Alternative
- Easy to Make
- Great for Outdoors
Pro Tip: Use a pencil or chopstick to hold the wick centered while the wax cools. Trim the wick to about 1/2 inch before burning for an even flame.
Get the Recipe: Natural DIY Mason Jar Citronella Candles
17. DIY Citronella & Lemon Bug Repellent Candles
Whip up these charming and effective citronella and lemon candles to create a bug-free zone.
Infused with the natural repellent powers of citronella and the fresh scent of lemon, these candles are perfect for outdoor entertaining.
They not only keep mosquitoes away but also add a beautiful, warm glow to your space..
Key Ingredients:
- Lime
- Lemon
- Rosemary
- Citronella essential oil
- Floating candles
- Water
Benefits:
- Natural bug repellent
- Adds ambiance
- Easy to make
Pro Tip: To infuse the water with even more repellent scent, prepare these candles a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator.
Get the Recipe: DIY Citronella & Lemon Bug Repellent Candles
18. Beeswax Citronella & Lemon Eucalyptus Candles
These homemade citronella candles are a safe and non-toxic way to repel mosquitos and other flying insects.
Made with beeswax and a blend of citronella and lemon eucalyptus oils, they create a lovely ambiance while keeping bugs at bay.
They're super simple to make and use in leftover glass jars..
Key Ingredients:
- Beeswax
- Coconut oil
- Citronella essential oil
- Lemon eucalyptus essential oil
Benefits:
- Non-toxic bug repellent
- Pleasant scent
- Natural ingredients
Pro Tip: If your candles crack while cooling, place them in a warm oven (300F) for a short time to melt and fill the cracks.
Get the Recipe: Beeswax Citronella & Lemon Eucalyptus Candles
19. Citronella & Herb Mosquito Repelling Candles
Create your own beautiful mosquito-repelling candles with just a few simple ingredients.
These candles use the power of citronella essential oil, enhanced with fresh lemon slices and optional herbs like rosemary and basil, to create a delightful scent that bugs dislike.
They're perfect for setting around your outdoor dining area..
Key Ingredients:
- Lemons
- Water
- Citronella essential oil
- Optional: Rosemary, Basil, Lemongrass
Benefits:
- Repels mosquitoes
- Aesthetic appeal
- Uses natural scents
Pro Tip: For an extra pop of color, add a few drops of natural food coloring to the water, as lighter colors tend to repel mosquitoes.
Get the Recipe: Citronella & Herb Mosquito Repelling Candles
20. Upcycled DIY Bug Repellent Candles
Give old candles and cans new life with these easy DIY bug repellent candles! Using essential oils like citronella or lavender, you can transform old unscented candles and recycled food cans into effective pest deterrents.
They're a fun and eco-friendly project that keeps bugs away..
Key Ingredients:
- Unscented candles or candle wax
- Citronella essential oil or lavender essential oil
- Recycled cans (kitty food or tuna cans)
Benefits:
- Repels bugs
- Upcycles materials
- Customizable scent
Pro Tip: Use 8-10% essential oil to wax weight for a good strong candle, especially for outdoor use.
Get the Recipe: Upcycled DIY Bug Repellent Candles
21. No-Wax Citronella Water Candle
This easy, no-wax citronella water candle is perfect for beginners and makes a beautiful centerpiece! Combining vegetable oil, citronella, and lemongrass essential oils with decorative elements and water, it naturally repels bugs without the need for melting wax.
It’s a simple and pretty way to enjoy your outdoor spaces..
Key Ingredients:
- Vegetable oil
- Citronella essential oil
- Lemongrass essential oil
- Water
- Glass container
Benefits:
- Bug repellent
- No wax needed
- Decorative
Pro Tip: Add decorative rocks or gems to the bottom of your glass container to help anchor the faux succulent and add visual interest.
Get the Recipe: No-Wax Citronella Water Candle
22. Soy Wax Camp Out Insect Repellent Candle
Enjoy your camping trips and outdoor adventures without the annoyance of insects! This soy wax candle recipe uses natural essential oils like camphor and grapefruit to create a delightful aroma that also keeps bugs away.
It's a fantastic all-natural alternative to commercial repellents..
Key Ingredients:
- Soy wax
- Camphor Essential Oil
- Grapefruit Essential Oil
- Cotton wick
Benefits:
- Insect repellent
- Natural fragrance
- Eco-friendly soy wax
Pro Tip: Making a large batch ahead of time ensures you have enough candles to light throughout your evening for continuous protection and ambiance.
Get the Recipe: Soy Wax Camp Out Insect Repellent Candle
23. Easy Mason Jar Citronella Bug Repellent Candles
These effortless DIY citronella candles, made in mason jars, are your secret weapon against mosquitoes! Harnessing the natural power of citronella, these candles offer an effective way to enjoy your evenings outdoors.
They're cost-effective, a creative outlet, and an eco-friendly choice for keeping bugs at bay..
Key Ingredients:
- Mason Jars
- Citronella Torch Fuel
- Lamp Wicks
Benefits:
- Effective mosquito repellent
- Cost-effective
- Eco-friendly
Pro Tip: Enhance the repellent power and scent by adding complementary essential oils like lemongrass, lavender, or sweet orange.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mason Jar Citronella Bug Repellent Candles
24. Homemade Citronella Candles for Bug Control
Keep mosquitoes and other insects at bay with these simple homemade citronella candles.
Using just a few key ingredients like candle wax and citronella oil, you can create your own bug-repellent solutions.
These candles are a practical and easy way to enjoy your home and garden without unwanted buzzing visitors..
Key Ingredients:
- Candle Wax
- Citronella oil
- Pre-waxed wicks
- Optional: other oils for scent, non-toxic crayons
Benefits:
- Repels insects
- Simple to make
- Customizable
Pro Tip: Warm your containers slightly before pouring the wax to help it cool evenly and prevent issues when pouring.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Citronella Candles for Bug Control
25. Two-Ingredient Beeswax Bug Repellent Candles
This incredibly simple bug repellent candle requires just two main ingredients: beeswax and essential oils! Featuring a blend of peppermint, eucalyptus, and citronella, it effectively keeps bugs away from your home.
It's a healthier, more natural alternative to store-bought options..
Key Ingredients:
- Beeswax pellets
- Peppermint essential oil
- Eucalyptus essential oil
- Citronella essential oil
Benefits:
- Natural bug repellent
- Simple recipe
- Effective protection
Pro Tip: Burn this candle near entryways like back doors to deter bugs from coming inside when the door is open.
Get the Recipe: Two-Ingredient Beeswax Bug Repellent Candles
26. Citronella & Lemon Bowl Candles
Create beautiful, natural insect-repelling candles by using hollowed-out lemons as bowls! These charming creations combine soy wax with lemongrass and citronella essential oils, plus dried lemon balm, to naturally deter insects.
They make stunning centerpieces for outdoor gatherings..
Key Ingredients:
- Lemons
- Soy wax
- Lemongrass essential oil
- Citronella essential oil
- Dried lemon balm
Benefits:
- Natural insect repellent
- Decorative
- Uses citrus as a base
Pro Tip: For a stronger scent and more potent repellent effect, let the candles cure for three days before using them.
Get the Recipe: Citronella & Lemon Bowl Candles
27. Lemon, Lime, and Rosemary Bug Repellent Jars
These charming mason jar bug repellents combine fresh citrus slices like lemon and lime with aromatic rosemary.
The natural scents create a delightful atmosphere that bugs can't stand.
They're a super easy and attractive way to keep your outdoor space pest-free, perfect for patios and backyards..
Key Ingredients:
- Lemons
- Limes
- Rosemary
- Peppermint Oil
- Lemongrass Oil
Benefits:
- Natural Bug Deterrent
- Pleasant Aroma
- Easy to Make
Pro Tip: You can store these jars in the refrigerator between uses to help them last longer.
Get the Recipe: Lemon, Lime, and Rosemary Bug Repellent Jars
28. Citronella & Citrus Mason Jar Luminaries
Light up your evenings and keep bugs away with these beautiful mason jar luminaries! They feature a blend of citronella essential oil, fresh lemon and lime slices, and fragrant rosemary.
The combination is highly effective at creating a bug-free zone, while the floating candle adds a lovely glow..
Key Ingredients:
- Mason Jars
- Floating Votive Candles
- Citronella Essential Oil
- Lemons
- Limes
- Rosemary
- Filtered Water
Benefits:
- Effective Mosquito Control
- Ambiance and Light
- Natural Ingredients
Pro Tip: Thinly slice the citrus fruits for better scent release and visual appeal. A mandoline slicer can be helpful here!
Get the Recipe: Citronella & Citrus Mason Jar Luminaries
29. Eucalyptus & Citronella Floating Candles
These DIY bug repellent floating candles in mason jars are a fantastic way to enjoy your outdoor space without constantly swatting away insects.
Using soy wax and a blend of essential oils like eucalyptus, citronella, and lavender, they create a pleasant scent that mosquitoes dislike.
They're simple to create and look so cute on a patio table..
Key Ingredients:
- Soy Wax
- Stearic Acid
- Bug Repellent Essential Oil Blend
- Floating Candle Mold
- Wicks
Benefits:
- Repels Mosquitoes
- Decorative
- Long-lasting Scent
Pro Tip: Don't blow out the candles before they've burned for about an hour per inch of diameter, or they might tunnel.
Get the Recipe: Eucalyptus & Citronella Floating Candles
30. Aromatic Essential Oil Bug Repellent Jars
Create your own natural barrier against bugs with these easy-to-make mason jar repellents.
They utilize the power of essential oils like eucalyptus, citronella, and lavender, along with fresh fruit and herbs.
This method offers a pleasant fragrance for you while making your outdoor area uninviting to pests..
Key Ingredients:
- Lemon Slices
- Lime Slices
- Rosemary Sprigs
- Eucalyptus Essential Oil
- Citronella Essential Oil
- Lavender Essential Oil
- Basil Essential Oil
- Floating Tea Light Candles
- Water
Benefits:
- All-Natural Pest Control
- Pleasant Ambiance
- Customizable Scent
Pro Tip: Adding a floating tea light candle on top of the water can help diffuse the scents even further.
Get the Recipe: Aromatic Essential Oil Bug Repellent Jars
31. Garden Herbs and Essential Oil Mosquito Repellents
Harness the power of nature by crafting mosquito repellents using herbs from your own garden! This approach focuses on natural ingredients like lemongrass, citrus, and basil, which are known to mask scents that attract mosquitoes.
These DIY repellents are not only effective but also serve as beautiful, natural decor for your outdoor spaces..
Key Ingredients:
- Pint Mason Jars
- Floating Candles
- Lemons
- Limes
- Fresh Basil Sprigs
- Lemongrass Essential Oil
- Water
Benefits:
- Non-Toxic Bug Repellent
- Environmentally Friendly
- Beautiful Centerpieces
Pro Tip: Light the candles about 20 minutes before you head outside to give the essential oils time to evaporate and create a protective barrier.
Get the Recipe: Garden Herbs and Essential Oil Mosquito Repellents






























