Floating candles are such a fun way to create a lovely atmosphere! With this recipe from Simply Earth, you’ll learn how to scent a floating candle using essential oils. This Patio Breeze Citronella Candle makes a perfect addition to your outdoor space—whether you’re hosting a summer dinner or relaxing solo at dusk.
What Makes the Patio Breeze Citronella Candle So Effective?
Each ingredient in this recipe has been chosen for its contribution to the aesthetic, function, or aroma of the candle.
Fractionated Coconut Oil
Acts as the carrier for the essential oil and ensures an even burn. This lightweight oil floats on water and holds the scent well, making it ideal for floating candles.
Citronella Essential Oil
Included for its fresh, lemony scent that creates a pleasant atmosphere outdoors. Its bright aroma pairs beautifully with summer evenings.
Floating Wicks
These specialized wicks are designed to float on oil and provide a stable flame. They’re essential for transforming your bowl into a functional floating candle.
Wide Mouth Glass Jar
This acts as the candle vessel. The wide opening ensures that the oil and wick can float safely while also offering a decorative, open view.
Decorations (Optional: Seashells or Stones)
These enhance the visual appeal of your candle and allow for customization to fit your outdoor theme. Just make sure they don’t interfere with the flame or the floating elements.
How to Safely Use Your Patio Breeze Citronella Candle Outdoors
Always dilute essential oils before using them on the skin. Essential oils are unlikely to cause skin irritation when diluted properly. If an oil has oxidized (been left with the cap off for extended periods), it is more likely to cause skin irritation. Refer to this dilution chart for proper dilution of this essential oil.
If you are pregnant, consult your doctor prior to use.
This essential oil recipe is safe to use with kids aged 10+.
Cats may find this recipe irritating. For more information on using essential oils with cats, check out this blog post.
Dogs may find this recipe irritating. For more information on using essential oils with dogs, check out this blog post.
We don’t recommend ingesting essential oils unless directed by a doctor certified in aromatherapy. For more information on why we don’t ingest essential oils, check out this blog post.
*Please note: This post is a compilation of suggestions made by those that have extensively used essential oils and has not been verified scientifically with clinical tests nor reviewed by medical experts. It is anecdotal information and should be treated as such. For serious medical concerns, please consult your doctor. The statements given in this blog post have not been verified by the FDA.
Patio Breeze Citronella Candle Recipe
How to Make a Patio Breeze Citronella Candle for a Relaxing Outdoor Glow
Ingredients
- FROM YOUR BOX
1/4 cup Fractionated Coconut Oil (see tip)
30 drops Citronella Essential Oil
1-3 Floating Wicks
- FROM YOUR HOME
Wide mouth glass jar (any size)
Decorations (ex: seashells or stones – optional)
Directions
- Prepare the wicks: Take each wick and insert it through the hole in the base. Make sure about ⅓ of the wick is visible on the foil-lined side of the base.
- In a small bowl, combine 30 drops of your Citronella Essential Oil with Fractionated Coconut Oil (or any other liquid cooking oil). Stir well to blend the oils together.
- Fill a wide mouth glass bowl or jar with water. Make sure you leave a little room at the top.
- If you’d like to add a decorative touch, feel free to place items like shells or small stones in the bowl or jar. Just make sure these items won’t interfere with the floating wick and the oil mixture.
- Pour the essential oil and coconut oil mixture onto the water surface. You want the oil to cover the entire surface of the water. The amount needed will depend on the size of your container, but typically 1/4 cup of oil should be enough; you can add more as needed. The oil will float on top of the water, creating the floating candle effect.
- Place the wicks into the bowl, making sure the foil side is facing up. You can use all three wicks in one larger bowl or create three smaller floating candles by using separate jars for each wick.
- To use your floating candle, simply light the wick. Always burn the candle within sight, keep it away from flammable materials, and keep it away from children and pets. Never leave it unattended. The candle will burn as long as there is oil in the bowl, or until the flame is extinguished. When the oil mixture is running low, add more oil to keep the candle burning.
Notes
- Tip: If you don’t have Fractionated Coconut Oil, feel free to use any liquid cooking oil. Depending on the size of the container, you may need to adjust the amount of oil. For every 2 tablespoons of oil, add 15 drops of essential oil. Be sure to stir the oil and essential oil together before adding it to your candle.