Citronella won't save you from a mosquito invasion

Not really.

Citronella works by masking the scents that attract mosquitoes, but it doesn’t actually repel them all that well. In areas with light mosquito pressure, a citronella candle on the patio might buy you a few minutes. But in heavily infested areas — think wetlands, tropical evenings, or near standing water — it’s basically a scented decoration. The mosquitoes will find you anyway.

The CDC and most entomologists agree: DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus (PMD) are far more effective. Citronella’s protection times are measured in minutes, not hours, and even then it’s spotty. If you’re dealing with a serious mosquito issue — where every bite risks disease or just misery — citronella is not your answer.

Don’t rely on citronella when the mosquitoes are out for blood.