As an outdoor enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for products that can enhance my time spent outside. Recently, I came across the Coleman Pine Scented Citronella Candle with Wooden Crackle Wick, a product that promises to combine a pleasant scent, mosquito-repelling properties, and a cozy ambiance. With high ratings and a reputation for quality, I was eager to give it a try. Here’s my in-depth, honest review after using this candle in various settings.
Pros
- Pleasant Pine Scent: Creates a welcoming atmosphere.
- Effective Mosquito Repellent: Reduces mosquito presence significantly.
- Wooden Crackle Wick: Adds a cozy, campfire-like ambiance.
- Portable and Durable: Easy to transport and withstands outdoor conditions.
- Affordable: Offers good value for money.
Cons
- Small Size: May require multiple candles for larger areas.
- Wind Sensitivity: Can be blown out easily in windy conditions.
First Impressions
– Packaging and Presentation
The Coleman Pine Scented Citronella Candle comes in a sturdy 6 oz tin. The tin is compact and portable, making it easy to carry for camping trips, backyard gatherings, or picnics. The lid fits snugly, ensuring the candle remains clean and protected when not in use. The design is simple yet functional, with the Coleman logo and essential information displayed clearly. The overall look is practical, aligning with Coleman’s reputation for durable outdoor gear.
– Scent and Initial Burn
Upon opening the tin, the pine scent is immediately noticeable. It’s a fresh and pleasant aroma, not overpowering, but strong enough to suggest its mosquito-repelling capabilities. The wooden crackle wick adds a unique touch, promising the soothing sound of a crackling fire. This feature intrigued me, as it adds an element of coziness and nostalgia to the outdoor experience.
Performance
Lighting and Burn Time
Lighting the candle was straightforward. The wooden wick caught fire easily, and within moments, the pine scent began to waft through the air. The candle boasts a burn time of up to 25 hours, which seemed optimistic at first glance. However, I found that with intermittent use, the candle lasted several evenings, making it quite economical. The burn was consistent, and the wooden wick did indeed produce a subtle crackling sound, adding to the ambiance.
– Mosquito Repellent Effectiveness
The primary reason I purchased this candle was its advertised ability to repel mosquitoes. Living in an area with a high mosquito population, especially during the summer months, finding an effective repellent is crucial. I tested the Coleman Pine Scented Citronella Candle in various settings: on my patio during a BBQ, at a campsite, and on a fishing trip.
1. Patio and Backyard Use
During a backyard BBQ, I placed the candle on a small table between the seating area. The pine scent was pleasant, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Over the course of the evening, I noticed a significant reduction in mosquito activity around the immediate vicinity of the candle. While it didn’t eliminate mosquitoes entirely, it certainly made a noticeable difference, allowing us to enjoy our meal without constant swatting and scratching.
2. Camping and Outdoor Activities
On a camping trip, I used the candle around the campsite, particularly near the tent entrance and cooking area. The portability of the tin made it easy to move around as needed. Again, the candle proved effective in reducing mosquito presence. It was particularly helpful in keeping bugs out of the tent, making for a more comfortable sleeping experience. The crackling wick was a delightful bonus, enhancing the campfire feel even when there wasn’t a fire going.
3. Fishing Trips
I also brought the candle along on a fishing trip to a local lake, notorious for its mosquito population. I placed the candle on the dock while I fished. The scent and crackling wick created a relaxing environment, and the candle helped keep the mosquitoes at bay, though not completely. It’s worth noting that effectiveness can vary based on wind conditions, as a strong breeze can disperse the citronella scent.
Durability and Portability
– Tin Construction
The metal tin housing the candle is both durable and stylish. It withstood being tossed in a backpack, knocked around a bit, and exposed to the elements without any issues. The lid stayed secure, preventing debris from contaminating the candle wax. This durability is a significant plus, especially for outdoor use where gear often takes a beating.
– Ease of Transport
Weighing in at just under half a pound and measuring 3 inches in diameter and 2.5 inches in height, the candle is easy to transport. It fits comfortably in a backpack or even a large pocket, making it convenient for a variety of outdoor activities. The portability of this candle cannot be overstated—it’s perfect for spontaneous outdoor adventures.
Value for Money
At a very reasonable price, the Coleman Pine Scented Citronella Candle is reasonably priced, especially considering its effectiveness and longevity. When compared to other mosquito repellent options, such as sprays or larger citronella buckets, this candle offers a balance of affordability, convenience, and functionality. The fact that it doubles as an ambient light source and aroma enhancer adds to its overall value.
– Purchasing Options
The candle is available in various pack sizes, including single, three-pack, and six-pack options. This flexibility allows users to purchase according to their needs, whether they require just one for a quick outing or multiple for a summer’s worth of protection. Additionally, the availability of different scents, such as Campfire, S’mores, and Pine Mug, offers variety for those who enjoy changing up their outdoor ambiance.
Common Customer Feedback
– Positive Aspects
From my own experience and what I’ve gathered from other customers, the Coleman Pine Scented Citronella Candle gets a lot of praise for several reasons. The pine scent is genuinely pleasant, not too overpowering, and it does a good job of keeping mosquitoes at bay. The crackling wick adds a wonderful ambiance, reminiscent of a campfire, which many people, including myself, find quite charming.
Portability is another big plus. The tin packaging is convenient, making it easy to carry around for different outdoor activities. Many customers, like me, also appreciate the price point, considering it to be a great value for the cost given its effectiveness and additional benefits.
– Areas for Improvement
However, there are a few areas where some customers, myself included, feel the candle could be improved. The first thing is the size—it’s a bit smaller than I initially expected. The candle’s effectiveness can also vary, particularly in windy conditions where the scent might not disperse as intended, and the flame can struggle to stay lit. Additionally, while the burn time has been generally good for me, I’ve seen mixed opinions from others, with some users feeling that it burns faster than the advertised duration.
Personal Recommendations
– Ideal Use Cases
Based on my experience, the Coleman Pine Scented Citronella Candle is best suited for:
- Small Gatherings: Ideal for small backyard gatherings or BBQs where it can be placed near the seating area.
- Camping Trips: Great for use around the campsite to keep bugs away from cooking and sleeping areas.
- Fishing Trips: Useful on fishing docks or boats to reduce mosquito presence.
- Picnics: Perfect for picnics in the park where it can provide both mosquito repellent and a pleasant aroma.
– Tips for Optimal Use
To get the most out of your Coleman Pine Scented Citronella Candle, consider the following tips:
- Strategic Placement: Place the candle upwind of your seating area to allow the scent to disperse more effectively.
- Wind Protection: Use a windscreen or place the candle in a sheltered spot to prevent the flame from being blown out.
- Multiple Candles: For larger areas or severe mosquito infestations, use multiple candles spaced around the perimeter.
- Storage: Keep the lid on when not in use to prevent debris from contaminating the wax and to preserve the scent.
Final Thoughts
– Overall Impression
Overall, the Coleman Pine Scented Citronella Candle with Wooden Crackle Wick is a worthwhile addition to any outdoor activity. Its combination of pleasant scent, mosquito-repelling properties, and cozy ambiance makes it a versatile and valuable product. While it may not be a silver bullet for all mosquito problems, it certainly makes a noticeable difference in most situations.
– Would I Recommend It?
Yes, I would recommend the Coleman Pine Scented Citronella Candle to anyone looking for an effective, portable, and affordable mosquito repellent. Whether you’re planning a backyard BBQ, a camping trip, or a quiet evening on the patio, this candle can enhance your outdoor experience by keeping pesky mosquitoes at bay and adding a touch of ambiance with its pleasant pine scent and crackling wick.
In conclusion, the Coleman Pine Scented Citronella Candle is a practical and enjoyable solution for those who love spending time outdoors but dislike the nuisance of mosquitoes. Its effectiveness, combined with the added benefits of a pleasant aroma and cozy crackling sound, makes it a standout product in the market of outdoor citronella candles.
