🌸 Candle fragrance oils
Scent is what people value most when they buy or receive a candle. Use oils made for candles and stay within your wax’s maximum fragrance load.
🌸 Fragrance oils Fragrance oils Candle fragrance oils are scent blends formulated to handle the heat of wax and fill a room with fragrance, both before and while the candle burns. See guide →
🌿 Fragrance oils Essential oils for candles Essential oils let you make candles with a 100% botanical scent. They smell wonderful, but throw less than fragrance oils and need a little more care. See guide →
🍋 Fragrance oils Citronella oil Citronella oil is the star of classic patio candles: a fresh, lemony, grassy scent we all associate with summer evenings and dinners outside. See guide → Fragrance oils vs essential oils
Candle fragrance oils are formulated to withstand heat and throw scent; they’re the strongest-smelling option. Essential oils are natural, but many evaporate sooner and have a weaker hot throw.
How much fragrance
The usual fragrance load is 6% to 10% of the wax weight, without exceeding the maximum stated by the wax manufacturer. Use the fragrance calculator to get it right.
Frequently asked questions
How much fragrance oil goes in a candle?
6% to 10% of the wax weight is typical. It depends on the wax and the fragrance: check your wax’s spec sheet.
Can I use essential oils?
Yes, but they have a weaker hot throw and some aren’t safe around all pets. Look for ones that are suitable for candles.
Why doesn’t my candle smell?
There may not be enough fragrance, it may have been added when the wax was too hot or too cold, or the candle may not have cured long enough.
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