THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO SCENTED CANDLES: HOW TO CHOOSE, BURN & CARE FOR THEM
How to Use, Burn & Care for Scented Candles the Right Way
The Ultimate Guide to Scented Candles: How to Choose, Burn & Care for Them
A beautifully fragranced home is more than just a luxury - it’s an experience. Whether it’s the calming scent of Lavender & Chamomile or the invigorating Lemongrass & Ginger, the right scented candles can transform your space and enhance your mood.
But choosing the best scented candle goes beyond picking a fragrance. Factors like candle burn time, wax quality and proper care all play a role in getting the most out of your candle.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore:
- How to choose the perfect scented candle for your home
- How long should a candle be lit for?
- How to keep a candle clean and burning evenly
- Which scented candles are safe for pets?
- Do scented candles lose their scent over time?
How Can You Choose the Best Scented Candles for Your Home?
The key to choosing the perfect scented candle for your home lies in understanding how different candle fragrances work well in different spaces.
Pictured: Eucalyptus & Oakmoss Scented Candle - Shop Now
The best scented candles for every Room
Each room in your home has a unique atmosphere, therefore it is important to choose the right scented candle that can complement your room beautifully.
Best Scented Candles For Relaxation (Bedroom & Living Room):
Soothing scents like Lavender & Chamomile or the rich warmth of After Dark create a calm and cosy atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
Best Scented Candles For Refreshing Your Living Space (Kitchen & Bathroom):
Clean, uplifting fragrances like Rock Salt & Driftwood or Fresh Linen help eliminate odours and keep the air light and refreshing.
Best Scented Candles For A Warm, Inviting Feel (Hallway & Living Room):
Woody, deep fragrances like Eucalyptus & Oakmoss or the rich, earthy Woodland Retreat add a sense of luxury and warmth.
Best Scented Candles For Focus & Productivity (Home Office & Study):
Bright, citrusy notes like Mango Nectar or Rose, Jasmine & Ylang Ylang help enhance focus and creativity.
How Long Should you let your Candle burn?
To prevent wax tunnelling, it its essential that you burn your new scented candle for at least 2-4 hours on the very first burn. By doing this, it allows the wax to melt evenly across the surface and it will ensure a consistent burn every time it is used.
Why is the First burn crucial for your Candle?
It might be surprising to most people, but scented candles have a "memory", therefore if you blow a candle out too soon on the first burn, it will never burn evenly again. It is important to let the wax pool reach the edges of the jar before extinguishing the flame.
How do You Keep a Candle Clean and Burning Evenly?
To maintain the best scented candles has to offer, you can follow these vital candle care tips:
- Trim the wick to ¼ inch before each burn to prevent excess smoke.
- Keep the candle wax clean by removing dust or wick debris with a soft cloth.
- Avoid drafts that cause uneven burning and buildup of black soot around the jar.
Do Candles Lose Their Scent Over Time?
Yes, even scented candles can lose their fragrance, but this is only if they are not stored properly. Factors that can influence the scent strength of a candle to fade include heat, light and air exposure.
How to Keep Scented Candles Smelling Strong for Longer:
- Store scented candles with the lid on when not in use to keep the fragrance locked in.
- When not in use, keep the scented candle in a cool, dark place that is specifically away from direct sunlight and heat from radiators.
- Whilst candles don’t typically have a ‘use by’ date, it is recommended to use a candle within 12–18 months to achieve the strongest scent throw.
Pictured: Woodland Retreat Scented Candle - Shop Now
what Candles Are Safe for Dogs and Cats?
Not all scented candles on the market are pet-friendly, therefore if you are buying or burning candles in a household with dogs or cats, it’s essential to consider if they are non-toxic to your furry friends. It is common that certain essential oils like tea tree and eucalyptus could be harmful to animals.
For households with pets, it is essential that you opt for gentle, non-toxic fragrances. Some of the best-selling scented candles with a gentle fragrance include:
- Lavender & Chamomile - A soothing, calm-inducing blend known for its relaxing properties. This gentle scent helps create a peaceful environment without overwhelming your pet’s sensitive nose.
- Rocksalt & Driftwood - A cool, clean fragrance inspired by coastal air. Light and refreshing, this candle offers a subtle scent that won’t irritate pets, making it a great choice for shared spaces.
- Fresh Linen - A light, airy scent that keeps your space smelling crisp and clean. Its subtle fragrance is gentle enough for homes with pets, creating a fresh ambiance without using harsh or overpowering ingredients.
How Can You Make Your Scented Candles Last Longer?
If you want to maximise the burn time and fragrance throw of your luxury scented candles?
Follow these expert tips:
- Use a candle snuffer instead of blowing it out to avoid smoke.
- Let the candle cool before relighting to prevent wick drowning.
- Repurpose candle jars for storage or decorative holders once the wax is finished.
The perfect scented candle does more than just fill your home with fragrance - it sets the mood, enhances relaxation, and creates an inviting atmosphere. Whether you love the floral elegance of Rose, Jasmine & Ylang Ylang, the crisp freshness of Rock Salt & Driftwood, or the comforting warmth of Dark Honey & Tonka, choosing the right candle can elevate your space.
By selecting high-quality scented candles, burning them properly and storing them correctly, you’ll enjoy longer-lasting fragrance and a cleaner burn.
Ready to transform your home with beautiful scents? Browse our full collection of Henry & Co
scented candles today!
Love, Henry & Co
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