What are scented candles
Scented candles are candles made with fragranced wax that, when lit, release fragrance into the air combined with warm light. They've become a common element of decoration and wellbeing at home, capable of transforming a room with a simple gesture. Beyond the scent, their flame brings a relaxed atmosphere that many people associate with moments of rest or time for themselves at the end of the day.
Types of wax in scented candles
The type of wax influences both the burn and how the fragrance is released:
- Soy wax: plant-based, it burns more slowly and cleanly, releasing fragrance gradually.
- Paraffin wax: widely used for its ability to hold fragrance in high concentration.
- Coconut wax or plant-based blends: combine good fragrance retention with an even burn.
- Beeswax: burns with a more golden light and a particularly slow burn.
How to choose a scented candle
In addition to the type of wax, it's worth paying attention to the wick: braided cotton wicks are the most common, while wooden wicks crackle gently as they burn, adding a characteristic background sound. The size of the container also determines how long the candle lasts and how large an area it can scent; a small candle is enough for a bathroom or a bedside table, while a larger format better covers a living room or an open-plan kitchen.
The olfactory family is another key criterion. Citrus and green notes bring freshness and energy, floral notes are delicate and luminous, woody and spicy notes wrap you in warmth, and sweet, gourmand notes create a cosy feeling, especially during the colder months.
How to burn a scented candle correctly
- Trim the wick to about five millimetres before each lighting, to avoid too large a flame and excessive smoke.
- Let the first burn last long enough for the wax to melt evenly to the edges of the container, preventing a tunnel from forming in the centre.
- Avoid draughts while it's lit, as they can cause the flame to flicker and release more soot.
- Put out the candle with a snuffer or by blowing gently, avoiding splashing melted wax outside the container.
When to stop using a candle
It's recommended to stop lighting the candle when about one centimetre of wax remains at the base, both for safety reasons and because the container may overheat. That leftover wax can be used in other ways, such as a decorative wax melt, instead of forcing one last burn.
Safety with scented candles
Always place them on a stable, heat-resistant surface, away from curtains, paper or any flammable material. Never leave them burning unattended, or within reach of children or pets, and put them out before leaving the house or going to sleep. Following these basic guidelines lets you enjoy their scent and light with complete peace of mind.
How to store scented candles when not in use
Storing candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight helps keep the fragrance intact until it's time to light them. Prolonged exposure to heat or sunlight can alter both the colour of the wax and the intensity of the scent, so a cupboard or drawer is more suitable than a shelf next to a window.
Scented candles depending on the time of day
The way scented candles are used tends to vary depending on when they're lit. In the afternoon or when arriving home, a fresh or citrus scent helps mark the change between the pace of the day and time to relax at home. In the evening, warmer, more enveloping notes, such as woody or gourmand ones, go well with the final moments before sleep, especially when combined with soft lighting in the room. During the weekend, many people choose larger candles, capable of scenting open spaces where more time is spent, such as the living room or kitchen when there are guests at home.
