Brooke Martin
Candles are a great way to enhance the ambiance of a space and create a cozy atmosphere. While most candles give off a pleasant aroma, some can be overwhelming due to an excessive amount of fragrance oil or wick issues. Warm Glow Candles are known for their inviting fragrances, but do they have a strong smell? Well, that depends on individual sensitivity and the specific candle in question. Some candles with warm fragrances like the Kashmiri Chai Candle evoke feelings of warmth and comfort with their spicy and sweet notes. On the other hand, certain candles with strong fragrances like the Brooklyn Escapist Candle can be too potent for some people's preferences. Thus, exploring the specific characteristics of Warm Glow Candles and individual preferences will help determine if their scent intensity aligns with one's expectations.
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What You'll Learn
Causes of strong-smelling candles
A high concentration of fragrance oil is often the cause of a candle's strong smell. This can lead to an overpowering scent when the candle is lit. To avoid this, ensure that your candle has a balanced ratio of fragrance oil to wax.
Another cause of strong-smelling candles is wick issues. If the wick is too large, it can cause the candle to burn hotter and release more scent than intended. Similarly, if the wick is made from a material that doesn't properly absorb the wax or maintain a consistent burn, it may lead to uneven scent release and chemical emissions. To reduce the strong smell of your candles, check for these wick-related problems and consider using a smaller or cooler series of wicks that will provide better control over scent release.
The type of wax used in a candle can also affect its scent. Some waxes, such as paraffin wax, produce a stronger cold candle smell and are often used in cheaper candles. Natural waxes like soy hold onto scent better and result in a stronger fragrance throw when lit.
Additionally, the positioning of a scented candle can impact its fragrance delivery. Placing a candle near an open window or air vent will cause the scent to be drawn to the breeze rather than filling the room. However, using a fan in the same room as the candle can help circulate the scent and enhance its fragrance.
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How to reduce a candle's scent
While candles are a great way to create a cosy atmosphere and fill your home with fragrance, sometimes the scent from a candle can seem overwhelming. A high concentration of fragrance oil is often to blame for this potent aroma.
- Opt for candles made from natural ingredients like soy or beeswax. Soy wax candles hold onto scent and are harder to work with, but they are definitely worth the effort as they are renewable and sustainable sources of wax.
- Ensure proper ventilation when burning candles. Place the candle away from an open window or air vent as the scent will be drawn to the breeze, but in a room with a fan to enhance the scent and circulate it.
- Use smaller or cooler wicks to control the release of scent from a candle, reducing its intensity without affecting its overall performance.
- Store scented candles in a cool, dark place to maintain their fragrance quality and prevent excessively strong aromas when lit.
- Place candles in open areas and opt for unscented varieties to effectively manage strong candle odours.
- Trim the wick to around 1/4" before lighting the candle. This will help the candle burn cleaner with less soot and prevent wick crumbling and curling.
- Extinguish the candle when the burn pool is less than 1/2" deep in the container. Burning the candle longer will heat and evaporate the fragrance too quickly and weaken the scent throw over time.
- Avoid candles with wicks that contain a metal filament, as these often contain lead. Look for thick, centred wicks made from paper or cotton.
- Air out the candle outside, preferably in a breeze, or confine it with baking soda or activated charcoal to minimise the scent.
- Select candles that are the right size for the room. Large candles with multiple wicks are suitable for larger spaces, while small candles are only capable of scenting a small room.
By following these tips, you can reduce the intensity of a candle's scent and create a more comfortable and pleasant atmosphere in your home.
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Natural ingredients for candles
Natural candles are a great option for those who want to avoid synthetic or artificial additives. They can be made with natural waxes, such as soy wax, rapeseed wax, or beeswax, and scented with essential oils or dried herbs and flowers.
Soy wax is a popular choice for natural candles as it burns cleanly and is relatively inexpensive. Soy flakes can be purchased in 5-lb bags, typically costing around $20, and can be used to make multiple candles. Soy wax can also be blended with coconut wax, which tends to have a slower burn and a stronger fragrance throw.
Beeswax is another natural wax option that can be used to create homemade candles. It is available in blocks or pellets, with a 16-ounce bag typically costing around $13. Like soy wax, beeswax can be used as a base for essential oils or dried herbs and flowers.
When making natural candles, it is important to pay attention to the temperature of the wax and the amount of fragrance added. The wax should be melted completely, typically around 89°C, and then cooled to about 65°C before adding essential oils. For a 200ml batch of wax, 10-15 drops of essential oil can be added for fragrance, or about one tablespoon.
In addition to soy and beeswax, other natural wax options include rapeseed wax and coconut wax. Cotton or wooden wicks work best with these natural waxes, and containers such as glass jars, teacups, or any heatproof container can be used.
Natural candles made with essential oils or dried herbs and flowers offer a way to enjoy the ambiance of candles while avoiding synthetic ingredients and overpowering fragrances. By making your own natural candles, you can customise the scents and styles to suit your personal taste and create thoughtful, handmade gifts for family and friends.
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Wick issues
The material of the wick is another important consideration. Wicks are typically made from cotton or wood, with cotton wicks recommended for soy wax as they burn brighter and absorb the right amount of wax. However, wood wicks can be tricky to burn correctly and may require special techniques. Contaminants in the wax, such as hard wax, additives, dyes, or flavours, can also clog the wick and prevent it from functioning properly. This can lead to issues like carbon buildup, resulting in the characteristic "mushroom" shape at the end of the wick.
Placement of the wick is also critical. If the wick is placed too far to one side or if it leans, the candle may only burn on one side. Additionally, if the wick is inserted too loosely, the candle may leak or even go out. To avoid this, it is important to ensure that the wick is centred and secured properly during the pouring process.
To troubleshoot wick issues, there are several steps you can take. Firstly, ensure you are using the correct wick size and that it is trimmed to the appropriate length, typically around 1/4 inch for each use. If your candle is a new purchase and won't stay lit, it may be due to too much wood exposed from the wax, in which case trimming the wick should resolve the issue. Additionally, proper ventilation can help control the release of scent and reduce its intensity.
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Storing scented candles
Temperature Control
Keep your scented candles in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. Ideally, store them at a temperature below 27 degrees Celsius to prevent overheating and scent degradation. Avoid placing them in areas with high moisture or humidity, such as bathrooms or kitchens, and steer clear of spots prone to leakage, like under the sink.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Direct sunlight can cause your candles to melt and fade, impacting both their appearance and fragrance. Store them in a dark location, away from windows or other sources of direct sunlight. The darker the storage area, the better to preserve the scent and colour of your candles.
Separate Scents
Avoid mixing different scented candles in the same container or storage area. Keep them separate to prevent scents from blending or becoming overpowering. Store each scent in its original packaging or individually wrap them in plastic bags or tissue paper to maintain their unique fragrances.
Optimal Storage Solutions
Jar candles are a great option for storage as they are less prone to spoilage and can be safely stacked or placed in boxes or baskets. For taper candles, store them flat to prevent warping, and consider wrapping them in tissue paper to protect them from scratches or damage. You can also use glass jars, small tins, or galvanized boxes to protect your candles from extreme temperatures and maintain their quality.
Fire Safety
Always prioritize fire safety when storing your candles. Keep them away from children, pets, and any flammable materials. Ensure that your storage area is secure and that candles are stored upright or stacked safely to prevent accidental fires.
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