Tiki torches add to the atmosphere of outdoor events by illuminating the night and repelling mosquitoes with citronella oil derived from petroleum products. 

Using tiki torches is fun to add an entertaining atmosphere to your event, but it’s crucial to use them responsibly. Using tiki torches can help you create the yard of your dreams, either for a one-time party or to add flair to your garden. 

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Properly erecting, fuelling, and storing your tiki torches can transform your backyard into a memorable and safe area for you and your guests. There are different tiki torch fuels in the market and other alternative fuels for tiki torches.

The alternative fuel for tiki torches is non-petroleum alternatives to citronella oil, such as bio-diesel, paraffin oil, and propane, to light up your torches cleaner and more environmentally responsible.

Biodiesel

Biodiesel is a kind of fuel that comes from plants. When manufactured from recycled vegetable oil-based bio-diesel, this environmentally friendly torch fuel includes citronella to repel mosquitoes and burns for an extended time while emitting less smoke than petroleum-based torch fuels. 

Paraffin Oil

Paraffin oil is a kind of oil used to make paraffin candles. Smoke-free paraffin oil is the cleanest-burning torch fuel available. It is a clear, colorless, and odorless oil suitable for use both inside and outdoors. Unfortunately, it’s often a more costly alternative, with 28 ounces of pure paraffin oil costing roughly $30.

Torches that run on propane

Propane-fueled torches have many advantages over oil-fueled torches, including the fact that there is no oil to leak, and they are adjustable, making it simple to provide the precise amount of light you desire. Propane torches are available in various sizes and shapes, ranging from tiny torches that operate on a one-pound canister to permanent tiki torches that may be put underground and powered by big refillable propane tanks. 

Make use of isopropyl alcohol as a fuel source.

Let’s start with a mixture of isopropyl alcohol and acetone. Pour a tiny amount of distilled water into the torch and fill the rest with rubbing alcohol. This is isopropyl alcohol at 91% proof, although other alcohols with lesser proof will also work.

A cheap way of keeping the fire going is to use a roll of cheesecloth from the packaging:

1. Remove a little portion of the part.
2. Roll the piece of fabric that you have cut off firmly.
3. Place a piece of wrapped cheesecloth through the wick hole and cut it to the desired length.

Allow it to soak up into the cheesecloth for a few minutes. And now you’ve got a handmade wick that’s burning homemade fuel.

Make your citronella oil.

Cut a few sprigs of citronella from the garden, and add lemongrass or nard grass if you want to get enough citronella oil to repel mosquitoes. Put the sprigs in a glass jar with isopropyl alcohol, cover and let sit for three days, then strain the plant and use the alcohol.

Use cooking oil as an alternative fuel for tiki torches fuel.

Pour the cooking oil (olive oil) straight into the torch and submerge the wick to create a torch flame. Turn the torch upside down to aid in absorbing the olive oil by the wick. You will know when it is ready to ignite when you see the oil coloring the wick and feel it on your fingertips.

The fragrance smells like frying fries, but if you’re in a hurry, you can ignite your torch with cooking oil – and practically any cooking oil will do.

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What is the best way to ignite a tiki torch for the first time?

If you want to ignite a tiki torch, insert a funnel into the aperture and pour fuel into the torch via the funnel. Make sure you only light each tiki torch’s wick when ready to use it. To put out a tiki torch’s flame, place a snuffer cap directly over the wick and hold it there until the flame goes out.

How to put tiki torches in place

Place tiki torch about 6–8 feet apart on a level surface; use a measuring tape to determine the proper spacing between your torches in your yard. Then, if you accidentally knock a torch over, you will be less likely to be injured.

Place tiki torches away from overhangs and other combustible items to avoid fire. In addition, you should place tiki torches away from trees, porches, awnings, and other hanging party decorations. Finally, keep your propane tank at least 6 feet away from your house or barbecue to avoid accidentally setting off your tiki torches.

The more space you create between the torches and any potentially explosive items, the better and safer you will be. For example, Tiki torches should be placed at least 6 feet away from your house and shed. This is because the materials used to construct them, such as wood, are flammable and may include flammable agents.

It would help if you used a 1-inch drill to make a hole for your tiki torch. Holding your drill perpendicular to the ground, drill straight into the soil until the hole is at least 6-8 inches deep, then stop drilling.

Whenever you’re doubtful about the depth of the hole, take the drill out and inspect it with your hands to be sure. Use caution when putting tiki torches in tough dirt or gravel ground because of damage. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to determine the most effective strategy for your specific soil.

Place your tiki torch in strategic locations. 

To use the tiki torch, insert the bottom into the hole you made with your drill. If you need to widen the distance, you can do so for your tiki torch to fit, use the drill to enlarge the hole by drilling slightly off the center from the initial hole you created. If more stability is required, use the torch stake.

Repeat the procedure with the other torches to complete the set.

Torch stakes are available at your local garden center or home improvement shop. These hold your tiki torch in place with a tightening pin and need just that you push them into the ground to complete the installation.

Tuck soil around the hole to keep your tiki torch from falling out by using soil from drilling the hole. For it to be secure in the hole, press it down on the base of the tiki torch. Carry on like this until the torch is secure.

Fuelling for tiki torches and storage 

Fill the torch with gasoline by pouring it in via a funnel. Get a funnel that the stem is designed to fit into the fuel entrance of your tiki torch. Pour your fuel into the funnel gently to prevent spilling it all over. You may avoid overfilling the reservoir by keeping an eye on the gasoline level as you fill the tank.

A tiki torch with an overfilled fuel reservoir will overflow and drip down the sides when the gasoline runs out. In case of spillage, make sure to dry it before use properly.

Remove any gasoline residue from the spill surface using a commercial-grade cleaning solution appropriate for the spill surface. After cleaning, make sure the area is sufficiently aired to dry fully.

Set your tiki torches ablaze. When ready to use your tiki torches, fire the wick with a match or a lighter to get the flames going. Reduce the time they are lit before your function to avoid wasting gasoline.

Extinguish your torches with a snuffer cap. 

Extinguishing torches is as simple as placing a snuffer cap to cover the burning wick and waiting for it to extinguish. Remove the snuffer cap when the flame is out and let the wick cool fully.

Replace the snuffer cap when the wick has been allowed to cool fully. Storing your tiki torches indoors will protect the wick from the elements.

The time it takes for your torches to cool down will determine how long it was ignited. If you’re unsure if the torch is still emitting heat, place your palm next to it and feel it yourself.

When not in use, keep torches upright to prevent them from falling over. If you wish to leave your torches outdoors, ensure it is securely anchored to the ground. 

If you want to store your tiki torches in a garage or shed, you should use a rope to keep the torches standing straight. If there is any unused oil in the torches while in storage, it is okay to leave it there.

Tiki torches for decoration.

• Your tiki torches will provide a unique and themed touch to your garden lighting design.
• Have a movie night in the fresh air. 
• Tiki torches may create a dark, friendly ambiance for watching a movie outdoors. 
• Organize a barbecue in your garden. 
• Tiki torches may create a beach or jungle atmosphere for a birthday celebration. 

Is all tiki torch fuel effective in repelling mosquitoes?

Yes, the majority of tiki torches are effective at keeping pests away. However, it is not the tiki torch itself that repels insects; instead, it is the torch fuel that does the repelling. Some tiki torch fuels include citronella oil and other natural bug repellents that keep mosquitoes and other insects at bay.

What kind of fluid do you use to fill tiki torches?

It is available in combination with citronella and eucalyptus oil, which are both well-known for their fragrance qualities. Paraffin lamp oil is the gold standard in fuel since it has no odor, produces no smoke, and makes no soot. It’s a refined petroleum-based product.

Tiki torches are made at home.

Tiki torches are intended to enhance the area’s ambiance in which they are used. Making one yourself is the best way to ensure that you have a tiki torch that most appeals to your senses. DIY tiki torches are inexpensive and simple to construct; the only limitation is your creativity.

Mason jars and other recycled glass bottles, such as wine and whiskey bottles, are some of the most popular materials for making DIY Tiki Torches.

What is the best way to use citronella oil as a tiki torch fuel?

Tiki Torch fuels citronella oil, one of the most fundamental components, and it is very effective in repelling mosquitoes. The oil is obtained from the leaves and stems of the Asian culinary plant Cymbopogon, often known as Lemongrass.

In addition to its culinary uses, Citronella oil is used to treat a variety of health problems. For example, when used as a tea, citronella oil helps induce relaxation while battling germs and improving digestive health.

Citronella works well as a mosquito repellant.

Since ancient times, citronella oil has been useful in driving away blood-hungry mosquitoes and other typical garden pests. It obstructs the mosquito’s ability to differentiate the crucial odors in finding its prey by using a strong citrus fragrance.

Furthermore, since it is derived from plants, the essential oil is considered safe for human health. Citronella oil comprises citronellol, citronellal, and geraniol, with several other components. Citrus aurantium (Citronella) oil is used in various home items because of its anti-fungal, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and insect-repellent characteristics. 

For example, citronella oil is used in candles, soaps, sprays, and lotions, among other things. On the other hand, its efficacy as a mosquito repellent is only effective for 30-60 minutes.

Citronella oil mainly comprises the above compounds, often found in cosmetics and fragrance products. Because of its lovely and calming fragrance, it is ideal for aromatherapy applications. In addition, it is a powerful relaxant that may assist persons with insomnia in getting a better night’s sleep.

Is it possible to use Eucalyptus as a mosquito repellent?

The robust and refreshing aroma of eucalyptus oil makes it a powerful odor eliminator and effectively masks the fume the human body naturally emits. In addition, this cover-up will assist in keeping you hidden from mosquitoes and their senses, preventing them from locating their next meal. 

What is the best way to use your Tiki Torch?

Irrespective of whether this is your first time using Tiki Torches for your backyard, it is essential that you understand how to use and maintain them effectively.

Tiki torches are excellent outdoor lights and can do much more than brighten the atmosphere at your backyard barbecues and cocktail parties. 

Related: Are Tiki Torches Toxic? (Tiki torches explained)

The best fuel for tiki torches

1. Firefly Tiki Torch Fuel
2. Tiki BiteFighter Torch Fuel
3. Ner Mitzvah Paraffin Lamp Oil
4. Firefly Clean Fuel with Eucalyptus Essential Oil
5. Tiki Citronella Scented Torch Fuel

1. Firefly Tiki Torch Fuel

The Firefly Tiki Torch fuel has a eucalyptus oil base that produces a clean, odorless flame with little smoke. In addition, it lasts 30-50% longer than other torch fuel types, making it the best budget tiki torch fuel suitable for individuals on a budget.

It has a child-proof top and a high-grade PET bottle. Tiki torch insect repellent fuel with citronella or eucalyptus oil.

Pros

• PET bottle with excellent quality
• Child-proof cap
• Less odor and smoke

Cons

• Its lack of odor makes it less effective than other insect-repellent products.
• Inconsistent clean burning
• Not as cheap as other brands

2. Tiki BiteFighter Torch Fuel

This Tiki Torch fuel is blended with citronella and cedar oil to repel insects. You also don’t need a funnel since the bottle has an easy pour mechanism for spill-free refills. The Tiki BiteFighter is also cheap.

A 100oz bottle may fill eight 12oz containers for 5 hours. It is advised to use Tiki Brand wide-mouth canisters for simple refilling.

Pros

• Easy pour for no-spill refills
• Citronella and cedar mixture for mosquito repellent
• 8-inch slim bottle for storing

Cons

• Not suitable for wide-wick lanterns and torches
• Smoke and grime
• Extinguishes with a foul odor

3. Ner Mitzvah Paraffin Lamp Oil

This paraffin lamp oil is ideal for tiki torches that can be used outside and inside. It has a smokeless and odorless flame, suitable for indoor usage. In addition, it has an easy-fill cap for hassle-free refills.

The oil works well with all wicks. Purified and distilled paraffin oil produces bright illumination for all purposes. Ner Mitzvah has five gorgeous shades to provide a peaceful environment for diverse occasions.

Pros

• Non-smoking
• The easy-fill cap prevents spills
• Five color choices

Cons

• Not that good at warding off pests
• The bottle is not very sturdy for traveling
• Cap may leak

4. Firefly Clean Fuel with Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Aside from repelling mosquitoes, Eucalyptus oil is an excellent cure for respiratory issues. It also smells good and pleasant. Firefly Clean Fuel contains Eucalyptus Essential Oil for mosquito-free outdoor. It burns cleaner and longer than paraffin oil. Just use a fresh wick the first time to avoid smoking.

You may also use this fuel for oil candles, lamps, and lanterns. Avoid putting this on wicks bigger than 3.6mm.

Pros

• Smoky flame
• Longer than paraffin

Cons

• Smokes with wicks above 3.6mm
• Indoor usage may create a black sooty mark on the ceiling.

5. Tiki Citronella Scented Torch Fuel

It also has a Tiki Citronella Scented Torch Fuel to add to the selection. Citronella Oil, known for repelling mosquitoes and other garden pests, is a solid addition to this tiki torch fuel.

Like other Tiki bottles, its container has an easy-pour technology to prevent spillage. In addition, its citronella grass aroma deters blood-sucking insects.

Pros

• Pouring system
• Unobtrusive citrus aroma

Cons

• Smoke
• The easy pour technique is ineffective on canisters with small openings.
• No broad wick lanterns

Conclusion

Tiki Torch fuel products vary in efficiency depending on the climate. Some may come with additional use instructions, but they function flawlessly. The beautiful thing about this list is that you may choose pure and odorless citronella, eucalyptus, and cedar.