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Best Scented Candles to Elevate Your Home
Scented candles for homes, like twinkling lights and incense, have a special way of warming up a living room (or an entire apartment) that feels cozy no matter the time of year.
Sure, some people think of candles as special gifts during the holiday season, but who says you can’t enjoy one in March, April, May… and beyond? Aside from the warmth factor, candles are a quick method to make your place smell wonderful and set a mood.
And there are plenty of possibilities these days. Perfumers are experimenting with smell combinations and harmonies that are far from conventional.
We’re talking about lake water, fresh air, and even the smell of a bubble bath with the correct combination of components. It’s a genuine fragrance revolution that you can bring into your house or if you’re the giving sort, someone else’s.
Whether you prefer fresh and herbaceous scents, fruity and floral perfumes, or musky scents, there are so many excellent selections on the market that you’re bound to find some that suit your preferences.
And let’s say you do find yourself drawn to a particular smell genre (I’m looking at you, gourmet girlies). If you’re prepared to step beyond your comfort zone, we guarantee you’ll make a discovery that will leave you wondering, “now, why did I ever exclude those types of fragrances?”
But before you embark on your aromatherapy journey, allow us to provide some insight by sharing some of our favorites. These are the greatest scented candles for homes for any season or space. They come in a variety of distinct scents and will look stunning on your vanity or side table.
Candle Shopping Like a Pro
Ingredients
Scented candles are often constructed of paraffin or soy wax, with paraffin being the most common. This wax is less expensive than soy and is derived from petroleum oil.
This, however, implies that metal burns’ dirty,’ emitting soot and other hazardous consequences when melted. Soy wax is a popular substitute for paraffin wax that is gradually gaining popularity. It is derived from soybeans and burns cleaner and longer than paraffin wax.
What Is The Difference Between Soy Candles, Beeswax Candles, And Paraffin Candles?
There are numerous varieties of candles available on the market. It’s not always clear which ones are best suited to your requirements.
Do you prefer soy candles, beeswax candles, or paraffin candles? Consider the following key distinctions between various candle types:
Soy
Soy wax candles are manufactured from soybean oil and have been popular since the 1990s! Soy wax is manufactured from cleaned soybeans that are cracked and de-hulled before being rolled into flakes and the oil removed.
Soy wax offers a milder scent but a slower burn time. You can get organic soy wax, which is free of pesticides and provides a more natural candle choice.
Beeswax
For millennia, beeswax has been used to produce candles. Beeswax candles have been used since Ancient Egypt and are still popular today.
Beeswax candles are among the purest types of candles, emitting no smoke or soot. To make fragrant candles, beeswax is frequently combined with other forms of wax (such as paraffin or coconut).
Paraffin
There are a number of candle varieties available today that are based on paraffin wax. It is the substance that remains after crude oil has been refined. To manufacture candles, paraffin wax is often bleached and colored.
Because paraffin candles can keep powerful fragrances, they are a favorite choice of wax for many merchants.
Despite their popularity, paraffin wax candles can emit a variety of toxins when burned, and low-quality candles can leave smoke stains on your ceiling, walls, and furniture.
Burn Time
Depending on the size and type of wax in the candle, various candles burn for varied durations of time.
A candle with a shorter burn period is ideal for a guest bedroom, bathroom, or other infrequently used places. Long-burning candles are appropriate for bigger common areas such as the living room or kitchen.
Wax Blend
Some of the most popular wax kinds found in candles include paraffin, soy (vegetable), and beeswax.
Because paraffin wax is generated from petroleum, folks who care about the environment may prefer soy or beeswax candles. However, there is no proof that paraffin wax is hazardous.
Type of Wick
Wood and cotton are two of the most prevalent wick materials, and each has its own set of advantages.
Wicks produced from a blend of cotton, and wood are a long-standing tradition. There are hundreds of sizes and varieties of wicks available to candle makers, allowing the wick to be tightly suited to the combustion properties of the scent used in each candle.
As they burn, they provide a lovely golden glow and flicker.
Wooden wicks emit a crackling sound as they burn, adding to the sensory experience. They also provide a very deep wax pool, allowing the candle to emit a strong smell. The flame is often shorter and not as bright as that of a cotton wick.
Candle Scents And How Do They Work?
There are numerous scents to choose from when it comes to scented candles. While some businesses create their own scents, most candle manufacturers have several common scents that have some excellent aromatherapy advantages. The following are the top ten major candle scents:
- Amber – aids in the reduction of stress and anxiety.
- Vanilla – aids in healing while also providing comfort and relaxation.
- Rose – aids with stress reduction and relaxation.
- Bergamot – is a natural mood stimulant that can help relieve anxiety.
- Cedarwood — purifies the air, relieves stress, and acts as a natural insect repellant.
- Pine – possesses anti-inflammatory and calming qualities.
- Eucalyptus – can help relieve discomfort, make breathing easier, and is a natural insect repellant.
- Lemon and citrus – help to relieve stress and anxiety.
- Cotton – imparts a calming aroma.
- Jasmine Is a calming aroma that promotes relaxation and can also be used as an aphrodisiac.
Types Of Scented Candles For Different House Smells
Scented candles are ideal for disguising unpleasant odors in the home. If you have a busy kitchen or pets, you can use scented candles to neutralize different odors and leave your home feeling and smelling clean.
Some candle solutions to combat various indoor odors include
- Lemon and citrus for a pleasant smell in the kitchen.
- Pine and eucalyptus offer a powerful cleaning scent that is ideal for the bathroom.
- Lavender and jasmine, as well as peppermint and bergamot, are excellent for combating pet odors.
- Peppermint is excellent for improving attention and concentration, making it suitable for use in the home office.
Are These Candles Safe For My Family And Pets?
Scented candles can add a lot of joy to your house, but are they safe for you, your family, and your pets to use?
While any burning flame is dangerous, you may lessen your chances of an accident by placing your candles in a secure location, away from small hands and paws.
Never leave a candle burning unattended. Always read the label for safety information and usage directions to ensure that you’re using scented candles safely.
Certain smells may cause varied reactions in pets. If heavily scented candles seem to bother your pet, try using soy or beeswax candles and limiting the number of candles you burn.
Best Scented Candle For Each Room
Scented candles have a magical property that allows them to transform a room subtly. The smell is one of our most powerful senses, and it’s astonishing how candles can change our mood in every area we enter.
Learning what sorts of scented candles work best for different house odors will help you create a great home fragrance that is tailored to the place.
Bedroom
Your bedroom is a place to unwind. Fragrances should be peaceful, allowing you to relax after a long day and have a good night’s sleep.
Lighting a scented candle in your bedroom is one of the best ways to elevate the atmosphere of your home. Whether you want to fill the air with a calming scent or something invigorating, there are plenty of scented candles that can help.
For your bedroom, choose a soothing scent like lavender or jasmine for relaxation. Citrus and minty scents can also help to sharpen the senses before sleep.
Choose candles made from natural wax for less smoke and fewer toxins in the air. Make sure you blow out the flame before going to sleep!
Bathroom
We all know that restrooms can smell bad for the wrong reasons! Having a fresh aroma in your bathroom can help keep everything smelling fresh. The best-scented candles for elevating your bathroom are those that best evoke relaxation.
Lavender, chamomile, or eucalyptus scents will help you de-stress after a long day. You can also choose clean, citrusy scents such as lemon or orange to brighten up the room.
If you want something a bit more soothing, opt for sweeter fragrances like vanilla or jasmine. Lastly, invigorating aromas like mint and rosemary can help create an energizing spa-like atmosphere in the comfort of your own home.
Living Room
Your living area is a place where you can experiment with aroma. Many people vary the aroma of their living room depending on the season.
Adding scented candles to your living room is a great way to elevate the space and make it feel cozy and inviting. Choose warm, rich scents that remind you of home, or opt for lighter citrus notes to put a pep in your step.
Look for candles made with natural waxes such as beeswax or soy for a cleaner scent. If you’re not sure what kind of candle will work best in this space, try testing different types out before settling on one.
Candles with vanilla and sandalwood scents are great for creating a relaxing atmosphere. Citrusy candles are also popular because they help energize the mind and boost creativity.
Floral scents like lavender and rose add a touch of sophistication while still remaining calming.
Kitchen
Consider a very faint scent at dinnertime to avoid overpowering the aroma of your meal.
If you are looking to add a little extra something special to your kitchen, then scented candles are a great choice! Some of the best scents for your kitchen include citrusy or herb-based fragrances.
Citrusy fragrances will help to give the room an energizing boost while herb-based scents can create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. A few other top picks include sweet berry smells, bakery fragrances, and woodsy aromas.
Citrusy fragrances like orange, lime, and lemon have uplifting capabilities that can lighten up any space. Herb-based fragrances such as lavender, basil, and rosemary provide a calming experience in the kitchen.
Sweet berry scents like raspberry, blueberry, and strawberry create an inviting atmosphere that is perfect for entertaining guests.
Hallway
The scent in your hallway should be faint.
If you want to add a pleasant and soothing fragrance to your hallway, scented candles are the perfect solution. Scented candles come in all types of fragrances that can match any type of decor.
Choose a candle with calming aromas, such as lavender or chamomile, if you want to create a relaxed atmosphere in the hallway. You could also try citrus or herbs like basil or rosemary if you want to bring an energetic vibe into the room.
Make sure to choose a candle with a scent that will linger for at least a few hours. For larger hallways, using several candles simultaneously can create an even more powerful aroma.
Try mixing and matching different seasonal scents as the months go by for interesting combinations.
Decorating Your Home
Candles are the ideal home accent, and you can have a lot of fun decorating your home with them. Some suggestions for using scented candles to decorate your house include:
- Make a decorative highlight out of your candles by using lanterns and candleholders.
- Select holders that complement the theme of your room.
- Chandeliers and sconces can assist you in creating mood lighting while keeping candles out of the reach of children and dogs.
- Make a centerpiece out of candles and other home decorations like vases, bowls, and ornaments.
- Avoid having too many candles that clash – experimenting with different levels might result in an artistically pleasing look.
- Decorative trays are great for placing candles on a coffee or side table to create a cozy atmosphere in your living room or bedroom.
- To create a spa-like, opulent atmosphere, use a bath tray to contain bathroom candles.
Final Thoughts
Sometimes the warmth of a fantastic candle is all you need to lift your spirits after a long, hard day. Is there anything better than lighting a brand new floral smell on a breezy, blue-skyed day?
Nothing says “spring” like a peony-scented fragrance flickering in your window, in our opinion. The best-scented candles have lengthy burn periods, a strong enough throw so you can smell them without being overbearing, and attractive pots that will look lovely on your counter.
While everyone has different scent preferences, we hope this article helped you find the perfect scented candle.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are scented candles made?
To make scented candles, first, melt the wax and then add fragrance. The wax is then poured into a prepared jar with a wick affixed to the bottom. Finally, the wax is allowed to set before being cut.
Where should scented candles be placed?
Scented candles can be used in any setting. However, here are some guidelines: If you have dogs or young children, keep the candles out of reaching them, and place scented candles in your sightline for fire safety.
What is the average lifespan of scented candles?
Depending on the type of wick, wax, and size, scented candles can last anywhere from 6 to 150 hours. Soy candles outlast paraffin candles, while larger candles outlast smaller candles. Many candles have an estimated burn time printed on the jar.
What to look for in fragrant-scented candles?
Natural or synthetic fragrances are used in scented candles. Natural smells are derived naturally from their environmental counterpart.
Synthetic scents are man-made and are frequently designed to complement, deepen, or add complexity to natural fragrances. Many candle manufacturers employ both types in their products.
What exactly is a candle throw?
Throw as “candle enthusiasts use to describe how powerful the aroma is. Is the aroma strong enough to fill a room? If this is the case, it has a very strong throw.
Though the throw of a candle varies from candle to candle, it is crucial to consider, especially when determining where to place it. For some applications, such as in the office, users may want a mild throw that brightens the mood without taking over.
How do you properly light a candle?
When you buy a candle, you must take certain procedures to guarantee that it is properly lit. To begin, one of the most important procedures is to trim the wick—LaVanier recommends a quarter-inch height.
By trimming the wick, your candle will burn more evenly and with less carbon in the wax pool. If the wick becomes too long or is weighted down at the tip by a huge carbon head, it may lean over and cause the candle to burn hotter on one side while leaving unused wax on the other.
After you’ve trimmed the wick, you’ll want to ignite it properly to avoid tunneling. Tunneling happens when only a tiny fraction of the wax surrounding the wick melts, resulting in uneven wax rings within the candle.
Candles should be burned for 3-4 hours at a time; however, tunneling frequently occurs when a candle is burned for a short period of time.
How do you care for a candle?
When a candle is not being used, appropriate storage is essential. Though some people assume that freezing a candle can make it live longer, it is advised to keep them at room temperature.
Freezing a candle frequently causes it to break and slows the creation of a full wax pool, which is what you need to lift scent into the air.
You are not required to clean your candle, but if you do, there is a specific approach.
Because you don’t want to introduce water into a candle, cleaning dark residue from the inside of the glass has to be done with a dry rag.
It is simple to use scented candles, but if you want them to survive, you must properly care for them. Here are some pointers to help you get the most out of your candles:
- After around 4 hours of burn time, trim the wick. This will help to keep the wick clear and avoid a smoky burn.
- Allow at least three hours for your first burn to produce an even burn. This ensures that the wax melts uniformly, preventing wax from staying on the sides of the candle and forming a pool in the center.
- Keep your candle clean – it will improve the quality of the smell and reduce fire threats.
- To keep your candles clean, try not to light them for longer than 4 hours at a time.
- Regular care will keep your candle looking nice and clean while also ensuring that the candle’s true aroma burns rather than burnt wick or soot. Our blog has a more in-depth list of candle care techniques.
How can you light candles securely at home?
Though candles can be dangerous, there are numerous ways to light them securely. Make sure candles are put on a stable and level surface that is out of reach of pets and youngsters.
It is recommended to keep lit candles at least 12 inches away from combustible things such as draperies, beds, and furniture, in addition to not leaving them unattended. You should also avoid placing candles “too near to each other, as their heat can lead them to lean or melt unevenly.
What are the different containers of scented candles?
Scented candles come in a variety of containers, giving you a lot of options for both aesthetic and functional purposes.
Metal and tinned containers are a popular choice since they are easy to clean. Once used, an empty tin candle can usually be recycled.
Ceramic candle jars are extremely robust and may be colored and embellished to create a variety of styles.
Glass candle jars are among the most popular types of scented candle holders. They have a sleek, glossy appearance that allows you to tell how much is remaining easily.
All candle containers are available in a variety of finishes, including natural and embellished finishes, offering you a variety of styles to pick from for your house.
Can you make your own scented candles?
You can make your own scented candles with wax, essential oils, and the necessary tools. It can be a fascinating and enjoyable activity that allows you to experiment with various aroma combinations.
Many people prefer to manufacture their own scented candles, albeit the hand-poured approach can take some experience, and your components will need to be purchased ahead of time.
Another alternative is to purchase a candle-making kit that includes all of the necessary ingredients.
