How to Make Citronella Incense – Naturally Beautiful & Bug-Repelling
- Astrid van Essen
- May 6
- 3 min read
As the days get longer and the scent of blossom hangs sweetly in the air, there’s no mistaking it – wonderful spring is just around the corner. It’s the season of garden gatherings, open windows, and long chats under the stars. But with all the loveliness comes one little downside… bugs!
Mosquitoes, midges, and other flying pests love this time of year as much as we do.
And while citronella candles are a standard solution, there’s something especially calming and beautiful about lighting your handmade citronella incense.
These incense sticks (or cones, if you prefer) help repel insects naturally and add a lovely aromatic touch to your outdoor space – earthy, citrusy, and calming. Plus, making your own gives you complete control over the ingredients – no harsh chemicals, just simple plant-based goodness.
What is Citronella?
Citronella oil is distilled from lemongrass and has been used for centuries as a natural insect repellent. Its crisp, lemony scent is pleasant to humans but deters many flying insects, especially mosquitoes. It pairs beautifully with other essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus or lemongrass, making it ideal for homemade incense.
What You’ll Need
Depending on your preference, you can make citronella incense in sticks or cones. Both work beautifully—sticks are easy to light and perfect for popping in a plant pot, while cones look charming in ceramic incense holders.
Option 1: Citronella Incense Sticks
10–20 drops citronella essential oil
Unscented bamboo incense sticks
1–2 tsp dipropylene glycol (DPG – optional, helps bind scent)
1–2 tbsp distilled water
A tall glass jar or container
Option 2: Citronella Incense Cones
2 tbsp Makko powder (natural binder from tree bark)
2 tbsp sandalwood or cedarwood powder
10–20 drops citronella essential oil
Distilled water (enough to form a dough)
Small mould, or use your hands to shape
How to Make It
For Sticks:
Mix the citronella essential oil, water, and optional DPG in a jar.
Place incense sticks in the jar and let them soak for 24 hours.
Remove the sticks and allow them to dry for 2–3 days in a cool, dry place.
Once dry, light the tip, blow it out, and enjoy the gentle, bug-repelling smoke.
For Cones:
Mix Makko powder and wood powder in a bowl.
Add citronella oil and stir until evenly combined.
Slowly add water a little, mixing until you form a soft dough.
Shape into small cones by hand or use a mould.
Leave to dry thoroughly for 4–7 days – they should feel firm and dry to the touch.
Why You'll Love It
Making citronella incense is not just practical – it’s a lovely, mindful way to connect with the seasons. Whether you're prepping for a spring picnic, a summer evening on the patio, or just want to add something special to your self-care rituals, these little creations do double duty: they beautify your space and gently keep the bugs at bay.
You can also customise your blend – try adding a few drops of lavender for a floral twist or patchouli for a deeper, earthy note.
Final Touch
Pop your finished incense in a glass jar, wrap a little raffia around the top, and you'll have a thoughtful handmade gift for fellow nature lovers. You can also keep a batch by the door, ready to light on any warm evening when you'd rather not share your space with mosquitoes.
Spring is for reconnecting with nature, not swatting it away. With your citronella incense, you’ll have a fragrant, all-natural shield to help you enjoy the season to its fullest.
How to Make Citronella Incense - Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is citronella incense safe to use indoors?
Citronella incense can be used indoors in well-ventilated spaces, but it’s primarily intended for outdoor use as the smoke may be a bit strong in enclosed areas. Always place it on a heat-safe surface and never leave it burning unattended.
2. What’s the shelf life of homemade incense?
If stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, your incense sticks or cones should stay fragrant and effective for 6–12 months.
3. Can I use other essential oils with citronella?
Absolutely! Citronella pairs beautifully with oils like lavender, eucalyptus, rosemary, or lemongrass, which also have insect-repelling properties and lovely scents.
4. Where can I buy Makko powder or bamboo sticks?
You can find them online from herbal shops, incense-making suppliers, or marketplaces like Etsy or Amazon. Look for natural, unscented options.
5. What if my incense doesn’t stay lit?
This usually means it’s still too damp or didn’t dry thoroughly. Make sure your cones or sticks are completely dry before lighting. If needed, leave them to dry for a few extra days.
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