Transform A Thrifted Fish Tank Into A Glowing Outdoor Light Display To Keep Bugs Away

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Bug sprays are an effective way to keep mosquitoes at bay, but they can be irritating to your nostrils and your skin. When it comes to fighting mosquitoes in your backyard (and doing it with style), that can of bug spray has nothing on an old aquarium and some deftly placed citronella candles. It's a setup that feels a bit like a fireplace arrangement featuring a candle display in the belly of the box instead of a fire crackling on a pile of logs. But you shouldn't be fooled by the beauty of this outdoor lighting display. By swapping in citronella candles, this decor is also a perfect idea to ensure a night set against a backdrop of cricket song instead of biting bugs.

The supplies for this project won't cost much. If you already have an old fish tank gathering dust in the garage, that'll do. If you don't, you can fetch one from the local secondhand store or your neighbor's yard sale. Pea gravel comes next on the supplies list and can sometimes be found in the craft section of the dollar store or online marketplaces and aquarium stores. Finally, citronella candles will work to keep mosquitoes away and are the final thing you need to create this outdoor lighting display.

Before you get started, you'll want to take a look at the aquarium to check for any unforgiving blemishes in the glass or on the frame. Next, give the aquarium a good spray with the garden hose. This will clear out any leftover cobwebs, sand, or dirt from the fish tank's prior inhabitants. Since it won't be holding fish anymore, you can polish the sides with a glass cleaner. Fix any chips or cracks on the tank's exterior with a product like ClenyMagi glass glue to reinforce the weak spots. Electrical tape can be used to patch up the frame if needed.

To give the candles a base, lay a thin layer of pea gravel down in the bottom of the aquarium. If you want a natural look, opt for brown pea gravel or even sea shells. If not, then match the pea gravel to one of the colors in your outdoor decor. For example, if you have tiles made of gray slate, then look for gray pea gravel, like PUSCRIENO Fish Tank Rocks, to provide continuity, a decorating tip that maximizes your outdoor living space. 

Finally, select about a dozen citronella candles in different heights and widths. The tallest, fattest candle should go in the middle. Flank the center candle with shorter candles, taking care to press the candles down into the pea gravel a bit to anchor the candles solidly into place. Place all of them far enough away from the sides of the aquarium to prevent the flames from overheating the glass. When you're finished placing all your candles, you'll be left with a display that features candles of varying heights and thickness in the center of the aquarium.

This outdoor anti-bug DIY offers you a practical solution to your mosquito problem. Still, it has its drawbacks. Although the citrusy scent of citronella candles is pleasant, the sight of them isn't always pretty. Many of these candles have some basic –- or really ugly –- tin jar encasings, but some of them look like pottery and can be prettier in your display. If you don't want to go with a full set of citronella candles, mix and match the candles in your display, using both regular candles and citronella ones to create ambiance and insect protection in one.

Another step you can take to hide some less-than-pretty citronella candles is to cover the aquarium's clear glass. A layer of vinyl decals on all sides can add textures and patterns to the plain glass, or your fix can be as simple as spraying the glass with a product like Rust-Oleum Frosted Glass Spray Paint. On the more dramatic side, you can evoke the look of unique stained glass window designs by placing a window film on the aquarium walls, reminiscent of the glow seen on church windows during a night service. You'll still see the flicker of the candles, but it'll be muted, softer and more inviting.

Finally, consider refurbishing the frame that holds the aquarium together by giving it a good coat of paint. Metallic paint will help it stand out while muted colors, like sandstone could help it blend into the nature of your backyard. If you're feeling really brave, try a playful and conversation-sparking color like brick red.