Interested in the idea of using tiki torches to repel mosquitoes? They provide both light and ambiance to outdoor spaces, so if they can also serve as a mosquito repellent, that seems like the ideal! But do tiki torches repel mosquitoes? The answer isn’t simple. Let’s take a look at how tiki torches repel mosquitoes and where they fail.
How Do Tiki Torches Work for Mosquito Control
Tiki torches are small torches, often made of bamboo, that can be stuck in or around your yard or patio for light or in an attempt to repel mosquitoes. The tiki torches are lit using oil or torch fuel poured into a reservoir at the top of the torch. Often the oil or fuel used for a tiki mosquito repellent torch contains citronella or other essential oils to help the tiki torches repel mosquitoes.
Are Tiki Torches Effective at Repelling Mosquitoes?
How do tiki torches repel mosquitoes? While both the flame and the smoke from a torch (or any fire source) will keep mosquitoes away from the immediate area surrounding the flame, their repellent properties don’t extend much beyond the areas right next to the flame or inside the smoke. If the torches contain citronella oil, that adds an extra level of repellent, but again, you’d need to be standing right next to the flame, which isn’t very practical or safe. Standing too close to an open flame for extended periods isn’t a good idea in terms of fire safety. Moreover, the fuel itself can be a problem — particularly around kids. Inhaling even just a few drops of torch fuel can be extremely dangerous.
Common Misconceptions About Tiki Torches and Mosquito Control
So, do tiki torches repel mosquitoes? While it’s technically true that tiki torches repel mosquitoes, that only applies to the immediate area of the flame and smoke, even if they contain citronella. Otherwise, the citronella smoke is simply blown away by the wind.
Unfortunately, you can’t count on tiki torches to prevent you from getting bitten.
As such, it’s important to take additional mosquito control measures so you and your loved ones are as protected as possible when you’re spending time outdoors. Wearing effective mosquito repellent helps for a while, but there are also other steps you can take to reduce the number of mosquitoes in your outdoor spaces.
The Best Alternatives to Tiki Torches for Mosquitoes
Since tiki mosquito repellent torches are not effective enough to keep these biting pests away, you’ll want some other options in your back pocket. Here are some methods to try as an alternative to tiki torch mosquito repellent:
Mosquito repellent
DEET and oil of lemon eucalyptus remain the most effective mosquito-repellent ingredients in studies. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides technical information on the safety and efficacy of many insect repellents, so you can refer to them for repellent options. Read all labels and directions so you know how to apply these products safely and understand how long they can remain effective.
Wear mosquito-repellent clothing
You can buy clothing treated with an insecticide called permethrin, which repels mosquitoes and other biting bugs. It should only be on clothing and never used directly on the skin. It’s also harmful to pets, so be cautious when wearing these items.
Avoid wearing certain colors
Research shows mosquitoes are especially drawn to certain colors when they smell humans, including red, orange, cyan, black, and high-contrast patterns. Mosquitoes tend to ignore green, purple, blue, and pale colors like whites, beiges, and pale yellows.
Catnip essential oil
While mosquito repellent plants aren’t typically effective, one study has shown that catnip essential oil works as an effective mosquito repellent for up to four hours with the common Aedes aegypti mosquito. This is a good option if you want to make homemade mosquito repellent.
Use coconut-scented soap
One study has shown that mosquitoes seem to be less drawn to people who use coconut-scented soap, possibly due to the fatty acids in coconut oil derivatives. It’s unknown how long coconut-scented soap remains effective, but it could be helpful when combined with other methods.
Citronella candles (in a pinch)
These seem to work slightly better than tiki torch mosquito repellent, but not by much. Some studies show that they don’t work at all. If you’re unable to use anything else, citronella candles will provide some level of repellent, but only in the immediate area where they are burning.
Why Professional Mosquito Control Is the Best Choice
For effective mosquito control that goes well beyond what a mosquito tiki torch can provide, bring in trusted service professionals. At Mosquito Joe®, we offer a variety of pest control treatments to help keep your outdoor spaces bite-free. All our services are backed by the Neighborly Done Right Promise™, to ensure your satisfaction. Learn more about our mosquito control treatments and how we can customize them to your unique space. Contact us today!
This article is intended for general guidance only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your property and your situation. Mosquito Joe is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of any advice or guidance derived from blog content. For the most accurate guidance, contact an independently owned and operated Mosquito Joe for more information and a professional on-site assessment.
