Ben Carter
There are many factors to consider when choosing a candle. The first thing to decide is whether you want a scented candle or a scent-free candle. If you are sensitive to smells, a fragrance-free candle might be the best option. If you opt for a scented candle, you should consider the different types of notes in the fragrance, including top, middle, and base notes. The top note is the initial scent, the middle note forms the core of the fragrance, and the base note is the lingering scent. You should also consider the type of wax used, as some types of wax can be toxic if they do not meet strict standards. Vegetable wax, such as soy or beeswax, is a good option as it is natural and burns cleaner and longer than paraffin wax. The wick is another important factor, as it affects the quality of the candle. A quality wick, such as one made of cotton or wood, ensures a steady burn and prevents the candle from smoking. Finally, you should consider the size of the candle, as this will affect the burn time. Smaller candles typically burn for up to 20 hours, while larger candles can burn for 50 hours or more.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Scent | Woody, floral, citrus, fresh, fruity, sweet, savoury, vanilla, rose, ivy, amber, lilac, tuberose |
| Scent type | Synthetic fragrance or essential oils |
| Scent throw | How far a candle can disperse its smell |
| Wax type | Paraffin, beeswax, soy-paraffin, natural essential oils |
| Wick type | Cotton, linen, wire |
| Number of wicks | Single or multiple |
| Shape | Taper, pillar, votive, cylindrical, filled, patterned, straight, block colour |
| Container | Glass jar or other non-combustible material |
| Size | Small, large |
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What You'll Learn
Scent: floral, citrus, earthy, spicy, woody, or gourmet
Scent is a crucial factor when choosing a candle. It is one of the five human senses that is most closely tied to memory and can significantly impact our mood and energy levels. When selecting a candle, you can choose from various scent profiles, including floral, citrus, earthy, spicy, woody, or gourmet.
Floral fragrances are one of the most popular categories, offering mild and delicate scents, such as rose, lilac, or jasmine, to more exotic and intense fragrances like tuberose or magnolia. These scents are often associated with spring and can be combined with fruity notes for a diverse fragrance experience.
Citrus scents are fresh and uplifting, featuring notes like mandarin, bergamot, grapefruit, or tangerine. They are reminiscent of sunny summer days and can be blended with aquatic notes to evoke seaside memories. Citrus fragrances are bright and exuberant, making them perfect for energizing and refreshing your space.
Earthy scents are characterized by their connection to nature, often featuring woody, smoky, or musky notes. These fragrances are warm and grounding, creating a cozy atmosphere. They can be rich and intense, providing a long-lasting aroma that lingers in your environment.
Spicy fragrances add warmth and depth to a room. These scents can be intense and invigorating, evoking feelings of coziness and comfort. Spicy notes often blend well with gourmand or sweet notes, creating a unique and indulgent fragrance experience.
Woody fragrances provide a rich and warm aroma, often with earthy and slightly intense undertones. These scents are derived from the heartwoods of trees, offering a natural and authentic experience. Woody fragrances can be lightened with citrus or floral notes or made more exotic by adding oriental scents.
Gourmet, or gourmand, scents are often spicy and sweet, reminiscent of baked goods, vanilla, or other edible delights. These fragrances are perfect for creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere, evoking feelings of comfort and warmth.
When choosing a candle, consider the atmosphere you want to create and select a scent that aligns with your desired mood and the season.
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Wax type: vegetable, mineral, animal, or paraffin
When choosing a candle, the type of wax is an important consideration. Different types of waxes have their own unique characteristics, such as burn time, scent, and eco-friendliness. Here is a breakdown of the different types of waxes commonly used in candles:
Vegetable Wax
Vegetable-based waxes, such as soy wax and palm wax, are made from natural and renewable sources like soybeans and palm oil. Soy wax is a popular choice for those seeking an eco-friendly option as it burns cleanly with little to no soot and is biodegradable. It offers a slow, steady burn, making it great value for money. However, it may not be the best choice if you're looking for a strong fragrance, as it doesn't hold fragrance as well as other waxes. Palm wax is a more expensive option that produces high-quality candles with long burn times. It is known for its ability to create beautiful crystalline and feathered textures, making it ideal for decorative candles.
Mineral Wax
Paraffin wax, derived from the oil industry, is the most commonly used candle wax due to its affordability and versatility. It is excellent for holding fragrances and colours, making it a popular choice for scented candles. Paraffin wax is available in various melting points, allowing for the creation of different types of candles, from votives to pillars. However, it is not the most eco-friendly option and tends to produce more soot than other types of wax.
Animal Wax
Beeswax is one of the oldest forms of candle wax and has been used for centuries. It is a natural by-product of honey production and is known for its clean-burning properties. Beeswax candles have a long burn time, produce little to no smoke, and emit a subtle, natural honey scent. While beeswax is an excellent choice for pure and natural candles, it is not vegan-friendly. Another type of animal wax is tallow, which was commonly used in Europe and the Americas until the 18th century. Tallow is rendered from animal fats, typically a mixture of sheep and cow fats.
Blended Waxes
Candle makers often blend different types of waxes, such as soy and paraffin, to achieve a balance between performance and eco-friendliness. Blended waxes allow for customisation and fine-tuning of the candle's characteristics, such as scent throw and burn time.
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Wick type: cotton, wood, or synthetic
The wick is an important part of a candle, influencing its scent diffusion, safety, and aesthetics. The type and size of the wick determine the amount of heat generated, which impacts the rate at which the wax melts and the fuel supply to the flame. A wick that is too thick for the candle will cause the wax to melt too quickly, resulting in excess fuel, a larger flame, and increased smoke and soot. Conversely, a wick that is too thin will not provide enough fuel, causing the flame to sputter and potentially extinguish.
Cotton wicks are the most common type, especially for scented candles. They are made from natural fibres, are environmentally friendly, easy to light, and durable. Cotton wicks can be braided, knitted, or twisted, and they may be treated to prevent rapid burning. Cotton wicks include the ECO series, which is a flat, coreless cotton wick braided with thin paper filaments for improved rigidity and reduced mushrooming, soot, and smoke. The 700 Series Wicks are another example of cotton wicks, featuring a cotton core and textile-grade cotton braid. Zinc Core wicks are also made of cotton with an inner zinc core for added rigidity.
Wooden wicks are a newer option, offering a unique crackling or sizzling sound when burning. They are typically used in containers and perform well with paraffin, soy, and palm waxes. Wooden wicks come in two types: hard and soft wood. Softwood wicks are superior, creating a crackling sound reminiscent of a wood-burning fire. They are ideal for natural waxes like soy and those with high fragrance oil content.
Synthetic wicks, such as those made from artificial fibres, are more economical and resistant to humidity. However, they undergo chemical treatments, which may pose health risks during combustion.
To choose the right wick, it is essential to consider the candle's diameter, wax type, fragrance, and colourant. Testing different wicks through burn tests is the best way to determine the optimal choice for your specific candle.
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Size: smaller candles burn for up to 20 hours, while larger candles can burn for 50+ hours
When choosing a candle, size is an important consideration. Smaller candles tend to burn for shorter periods, typically up to 20 hours, while larger candles can offer extended burn times of 50 hours or more. The size of the candle you choose will depend on your intended use and the space you have.
If you're looking for a candle to provide ambience for a single evening, a smaller candle may be sufficient. These candles are often more affordable and can be a great way to experiment with different fragrances without committing to a larger size. Smaller candles are also convenient if you enjoy frequently changing the scent in your space or if you're purchasing a candle as a gift.
On the other hand, larger candles are ideal for those who want a consistent fragrance in their space for an extended period. These candles offer better value in terms of burn time and can be more cost-effective in the long run. They are perfect for frequently used spaces, such as living rooms or dining areas, where you want a continuous warm glow and fragrance.
Additionally, the size of the candle can impact the overall aesthetic of your space. Larger candles, such as pillar candles, can act as a statement piece and add a touch of elegance or sophistication to your décor. They often have multiple wicks, creating a vibrant glow and a more intense fragrance. Smaller candles, on the other hand, can be great for creating a subtle and cosy atmosphere, especially when grouped together.
When considering the size of a candle, it's also important to think about safety. Taller, thinner candles, such as taper candles, should be placed in candle holders to prevent them from being easily knocked over. Ensure that the candle is securely and rigidly placed in the holder to avoid any accidents. By taking these factors into account, you can choose a candle that not only fits your aesthetic and fragrance preferences but also provides the desired burn time and ambience for your space.
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Container: glass jar, patterned, or solid colour
When choosing a candle, the container is an important consideration. Glass jars, patterned, or solid colours are all options to choose from.
Glass is an ideal material for candle containers due to its non-flammable and non-porous properties. However, it is important to ensure that the glass is thick enough to withstand the heat of the candle. Thin glass may not be able to stand up to the heat and can crack if exposed to too much heat. The thicker the glass, the less likely it is to crack. It is also important to consider the shape of the glass container. If it has a wide mouth and is narrow at the bottom, it will get hotter as it burns and may be more prone to cracking.
To prevent cracking, it is crucial to select the right size wick for the container. Overwicking can lead to excessive heat, potentially causing cracks. Centering the wick within the container is also important to prevent an uneven buildup of heat in one area. Additionally, the diameter of the container should be considered in relation to the wick size. If the diameter is too small, the candle may tunnel and crack. Multiple wicks may be necessary for containers with a wider opening.
Some people prefer the look of patterned or coloured containers. Metal candle containers come in various colours like teal, navy, sage, matte black, and white, offering a sleek or exotic design. These containers can hide imperfections such as candle frosting and uneven pours, which are more visible in translucent glass containers. Coloured containers can also enhance the overall aesthetic of the candle, especially if it has bold or bright colours.
Ultimately, the choice of container depends on personal taste and the intended use of the candle. Safety considerations, such as the container's heat resistance, flammability, and leak-proof properties, should always take precedence to ensure a safe burning experience.
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Frequently asked questions
The most important factors to consider are: scent, candle size, burn time, room size, and wick quality.
Fragrances are made up of top, middle, and base notes. The top note is the initial scent, the middle forms the core of the fragrance, and the base note is the lingering scent. Consider whether you prefer floral, citrus, earthy, spicy, woody, or gourmet scents.
A quality wick ensures a steady burn and prevents the candle from smoking. Cotton or wood wicks are preferable to synthetic wicks, which are less natural and must meet certain standards.
