Which Candle Wax Gives the Best Scent Throw? A Complete Guide

Importance of Scent Throw in Candles

Have you ever burned a homemade candle or container candle that smelled amazing while standing right next to it, but as soon as you moved away, the scent disappeared? That’s because of the scent throw. Scent throw is the measure of how well a soy candle or paraffin candle fragrance fills a room and creates an inviting atmosphere.

Achieving a strong scent throw is essential for creating high-quality scented candles. The type of wax used in candle making plays a crucial role in scent throw. Natural waxes, such as soy waxes, are ideal for container candles as they have a longer burn time and better scent throw than melt paraffin. Container candles require different types of wax than pillar or votive candles for optimal scent throw.

Understanding how to achieve strong scent throw requires knowledge about the science behind it. Did you know that certain smells have better “throw” than others? For example, floral fragrances tend to have a stronger scent throw than fruity ones. This is important to keep in mind when making homemade candles, whether using soy candles or paraffin candles.

Let’s dive into the world of candles and discover why soy waxes and bees make for a better burn than traditional waxes. Plus, have you ever tried coconut wax candles?

Types of Wax for Candle Making and Their Pros and Cons for Scent Throw

Paraffin Wax

Paraffin wax is one of the most commonly used waxes for candle making due to its affordability, accessibility, and ease of use. It has a low melting point, which makes it easy to work with and burn. However, paraffin wax has limited scent throw compared to other types of wax such as coconut or rapeseed wax. To enhance the scent throw of paraffin wax candles, additives such as stearic acid or vybar are often used. Additionally, using a one-wick candle can help improve the scent throw by allowing for a more concentrated burn.

Pros:

• Affordable
• Easy to use
• Widely available

Cons:

• Limited scent throw
• Non-renewable resource

Soy Wax

Soy wax is a popular natural alternative to traditional candle waxes like paraffin. Made from soybeans, it is eco-friendly and ideal for homemade candles. In addition, soy wax holds fragrance well and burns cleaner than other waxes, producing less soot and reducing indoor air pollution. While soy wax can be more difficult to work with than other waxes, such as rapeseed or coconut, due to its higher melting temperatures and longer cooling times, it remains a top choice for those seeking a sustainable candle-making option.

Pros:

• Eco-friendly
• Holds fragrance well
• Burns cleaner than paraffin wax

Cons:

• May require additives for enhanced scent throw
• Can be more difficult to work with

Beeswax

Beeswax is a natural byproduct of honey production that has been used for centuries in candle making. It has a natural honey-like aroma that adds a unique touch to candles without the need for added fragrances. Beeswax also burns cleanly and slowly, making it an ideal choice for long-lasting candles. However, beeswax can be expensive compared to other types of wax. Alternatively, coconut wax and rapeseed wax are gaining popularity as sustainable and eco-friendly options for candle making.

Pros:

• Natural aroma
• Clean burning
• Long-lasting

Cons:

• Expensive
• Limited availability

Palm Wax

Palm wax is a sustainable alternative to paraffin wax that is made from the oil of palm trees. It has excellent scent throw and produces a unique crystalline appearance when cooled. However, the sustainability of palm wax has been called into question due to deforestation and habitat destruction caused by palm oil production. If you’re looking for other eco-friendly options, consider using soy candles, coconut wax, or rapeseed wax which burn cleanly and efficiently.

Pros:

• Excellent scent throw
• Unique appearance

Cons:

Factors Affecting Scent Throw in Candles

Candle makers often wonder which wax is the best for achieving optimal scent throw. However, there are several factors that can affect the fragrance release of candles beyond just the type of wax used. Factors such as how long the candle burn, the use of rapeseed or coconut wax, and other variables can also impact scent throw.

Wick Size

The size of a candle wick, made with either coconut or rapeseed, plays a significant role in how much fragrance is released into the air while burning. If a wick is too small, it may not be able to melt the wax enough to release the fragrance oils properly. On the other hand, if a wick is too large, it can cause excessive heat and soot buildup.

Candle and wax melt makers should choose a wick size based on their container’s diameter and desired burn time. The larger the diameter of the container, the larger the wick required for optimal scent throw. It’s essential to test different wicks before settling on one as they can significantly impact how well your candle or wax melt performs. When selecting a wick, consider the type of wax you are using, such as coconut wax or other wax types, as this can also affect the wick’s performance. Additionally, if you want to add color to your candles or wax melts, be sure to use a suitable wax dye for your chosen wax type.

Quality and Quantity of Fragrance Oil

The quality and quantity of fragrance oil used in making candles greatly affects scent throw, regardless of the wax types used such as coconut wax or rapeseed wax. However, adding wax dye to the mix can affect the potency of the scent. High-quality fragrance oils tend to have better staying power and produce more potent scents than lower quality ones, regardless of the type of wax used.

It’s important to note that adding too much fragrance oil doesn’t always result in stronger scents; it can lead to issues like poor burn quality or even potential health hazards due to overloading with chemicals. Candle makers should follow recommended usage rates provided by their fragrance oil supplier carefully, regardless of the wax types they use, whether it be coconut wax or rapeseed wax. It is also important to use the appropriate amount of wax dye to achieve the desired color without compromising the quality of the candle.

Wax Melting Point and Viscosity

The melting point and viscosity of paraffin candle wax also play an essential role in how well it holds onto fragrances. Different types of paraffin candle wax have varying melting points; some require higher temperatures than others before releasing their fragrances fully.

For example, soy wax has a lower melting point than paraffin wax, meaning scents are released more quickly. Beeswax, on the other hand, has a higher melting point and releases scents more slowly.

Viscosity refers to how thick or thin the wax is. Thicker waxes tend to hold onto fragrances better than thinner ones as they provide more surface area for fragrance molecules to adhere to.

Other Factors

Other factors that can affect scent throw include the presence of toxins in the wax, which can interfere with fragrance oils’ ability to release fully. Some chemicals used in candle making can also impact scent throw negatively.

The temperature at which candles burn also plays a role in scent throw. Candles should be burned at the recommended temperature range for their specific wax type (usually between 175-190 degrees Fahrenheit) to optimize fragrance release.

How to Achieve Strong Scent Throw in Candles

Use high-quality fragrance oils specifically designed for candle making.

The quality of your fragrance oil is crucial for candle making, especially when using different wax types such as rapeseed wax or coconut wax. Using low-quality or cheap fragrance oils can result in weak or non-existent scent throws, even if you follow all the other steps perfectly. To ensure that you’re using a high-quality fragrance oil that complements your chosen wax type, look for oils that are specifically designed for candle making and made from premium ingredients.

Some popular brands of fragrance oils for candle making using rapeseed wax include:

• Nature’s Garden
• CandleScience
• Peak Fragrance Oils
• Aztec Candle & Soap Supplies

Make sure to read reviews and do your research before purchasing any fragrance oil for your candles, whether you’re using common candle wax, coconut candle wax, or rapeseed wax. This will help you avoid wasting money on subpar products that won’t give you the scent throw you’re looking for, regardless of the candle wax types you use.

Ensure proper wick selection based on the diameter of your container or mold.

The wick you choose for your candle also plays a big role in how well it will throw its scent. If your wick is too small, it won’t be able to melt enough wax to release the fragrance properly. On the other hand, if your wick is too large, it will burn through the wax too quickly and potentially cause safety issues like smoking or sooting.

To ensure that you have the right size wick for your rapeseed wax candle, consider the diameter of your container or mold. Most wick manufacturers provide charts that recommend which size wick to use based on different container diameters. Make sure to follow these recommendations as closely as possible to achieve optimal scent throw.

Experiment with different ratios of fragrance oil to wax until you find the perfect balance.

Finally, finding the right ratio of fragrance oil to wax can take some trial and error. The amount of oil needed will depend on factors like the strength of your chosen fragrance oil and the type of wax you’re using. As a general rule of thumb, most fragrance oils will require between 6% and 10% oil to wax ratio.

Start with the lower end of this range and gradually increase until you achieve your desired scent throw. Keep in mind that adding too much fragrance oil can result in issues like poor burn quality or even safety hazards like flaring or smoking. When using coconut candle wax, rapeseed wax, or other candle wax types, it is important to follow the same guidelines for fragrance oil usage.

Paraffin Wax: Different Types for Scented Candles and Their Pros

Choosing the right wax is crucial to achieving the desired scent throw. With so many candle wax types available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which one is best for your needs.

Fully Refined Paraffin Wax

Fully refined paraffin wax is a popular choice among candle makers because of its low cost and easy availability. This type of paraffin wax undergoes a refining process that removes impurities and produces a clean-burning candle with less soot than other types.

However, fully refined paraffin wax has lower scent throw potential compared to other waxes. This means that it may not be the best choice if you’re looking for candles with strong fragrance.

If you’re planning to use fully refined paraffin wax for scented candles, here are some tips:

• Use high-quality fragrance oils with strong scents.
• Add more fragrance oil than what’s recommended by the manufacturer to enhance scent.
• Let the candles cure for at least two weeks before burning them to allow the fragrance to settle.

Microcrystalline Wax

Microcrystalline wax is a type of hard wax that blends well with other waxes and enhances their scent throw capabilities. It has smaller crystal structures than paraffin waxes, which allows it to hold more fragrance oil.

Microcrystalline wax also has a higher melting point than paraffin waxes, making it ideal for creating pillar candles or votives that require harder wax.

Here are some advantages of using microcrystalline wax:

• Enhances scent throw capabilities
• Blends well with other waxes
• Holds more fragrance oil
• Ideal for creating harder candles

If you’re planning to use microcrystalline wax for scented candles, here are some tips:

• Use a blend of microcrystalline wax and paraffin wax for better scent throw.
• Add more fragrance oil than what’s recommended by the manufacturer.
• Let the candles cure for at least two weeks before burning them to allow the fragrance to settle.

Palm Wax

Palm wax is a natural wax that’s derived from palm tree oil. It’s an eco-friendly alternative to paraffin waxes and produces clean-burning candles with a unique crystalline appearance.

Palm wax has excellent scent throw capabilities, making it ideal for creating scented candles. It also has a higher melting point than paraffin waxes, which makes it suitable for creating harder candles.

Here are some advantages of using palm wax:

• Eco-friendly alternative to paraffin waxes
• Produces clean-burning candles
• Unique crystalline appearance
• Excellent scent throw capabilities

If you’re planning to use palm wax for scented candles, here are some tips:

• Use high-quality fragrance oils with strong scents.

Soy Wax: Cons and Signature Blend for Scented Candles

The Pros and Cons of Using Soy Wax for Scented Candles

Soy wax has become a popular choice for candle makers due to its natural and eco-friendly properties. However, soy wax can have some cons. While soy wax has a great cold scent throw, it can have a poor hot scent throw. This means that the fragrance of the candle is not as strong when burning as it is when the candle is unlit.

One way to improve the hot scent throw of soy wax candles is by blending soy wax with other waxes like beeswax or paraffin wax. Beeswax has a higher melting point than soy wax, which can help improve the overall performance of the candle. Paraffin wax, on the other hand, has a better hot scent throw than soy wax but is not as eco-friendly.

Another option to consider is using rapeseed wax instead of soy wax. Rapeseed wax has similar properties to soy wax but with a stronger hot scent throw.

Signature Blends for Stronger Scent Throws

If you want to stick with using only soy wax in your scented candles, there are signature blends you can create that will give your candles a stronger scent throw.

• Soy and Beeswax Blend: A 50/50 blend of these two waxes can give your candles a better hot scent throw while still maintaining an eco-friendly profile.
• Soy and Paraffin Blend: A 60/40 blend of these two waxes can give your candles an even stronger hot scent throw but at the cost of being less environmentally friendly.
• Soy and Rapeseed Blend: Similar to using just rapeseed wax, this blend can give your candles a strong hot scent throw while still being eco-friendly.

Top Companies Using Soy Wax in Their Candles

If you’re looking for high-quality soy wax candles, here are some top companies to check out:

• Sojourn Company: This company uses 100% soy wax and essential oils in their candles, making them eco-friendly and natural. They also have a variety of unique scents like Palo Santo and White Sage.
• P.F. Candle Co.: P.F. Candle Co. uses a blend of soy wax and fragrance oils in their candles to create strong scent throws. They have a wide range of scents from classic to unexpected like Teakwood & Tobacco and Golden Coast.
• Brooklyn Candle Studio: Brooklyn Candle Studio uses a blend of soy wax and essential oils in their candles, giving them a natural scent profile. They also have beautiful packaging that makes them great gifts.

Beeswax: Pros and Cons for Candle Making

The Natural Sweet Scent of Beeswax Candles

Beeswax candles are a popular choice among candle makers due to their natural, sweet scent. Made from the wax produced by bees, these candles have a warm, honey-like aroma that can be soothing and relaxing. The scent is subtle yet noticeable, making it perfect for those who prefer milder fragrances.

Eco-Friendly Option

Another advantage of using beeswax for candle making is its eco-friendliness. Beeswax is a renewable resource that is biodegradable and does not release harmful toxins when burned. This makes it an excellent choice for those who prioritize sustainability and want to reduce their carbon footprint.

Expensive Wax with Limited Scent Throw

However, there are some downsides to using beeswax for candle making. One major disadvantage is its cost – beeswax can be expensive compared to other types of wax such as soy or paraffin wax. While beeswax has a natural scent, it may not have the same level of fragrance throw as other waxes without additives.

Additives Required for Better Scent Throw

To improve the scent throw of beeswax candles, many candle makers add essential oils or fragrance oils to the wax. This helps to enhance the aroma and make it more noticeable when burning. However, adding too much oil can negatively impact the performance of the candle and cause issues such as smoking or uneven burning.

Brassica Wax Alternative

For those looking for an alternative to beeswax that still provides eco-friendly benefits but with better scent throw options may consider brassica wax. Brassica wax is made from rapeseed oil and has similar properties to beeswax in terms of being renewable and biodegradable; however, it has better scent throw capabilities than pure beeswax.

Best Wax for Scent Throw in Candles

In conclusion,There are several factors to consider. The type of wax used, the fragrance load, and the candle-making process can all impact the strength and longevity of a candle’s scent throw.

Paraffin wax is a popular choice for scented candles due to its ability to hold a high fragrance load and produce strong scent throw. Soy wax is also a great option, especially when blended with other waxes or additives. Beeswax may not be the best choice for strong scent throw but has its own unique benefits such as being eco-friendly and producing a warm glow.

To achieve strong scent throw in candles, it’s important to use quality fragrance oils and follow proper candle-making techniques. This includes using the correct temperature when melting wax, adding fragrance oil at the right time, and allowing sufficient curing time before burning.

If you’re looking for the best wax for scent throw in candles, consider trying out different types of waxes and experimenting with fragrance loads and blends. Ultimately, the best wax will depend on your personal preferences and desired outcome.

FAQs

Q: Can I mix different types of wax together?

A: Yes! Many candle makers blend different types of waxes together to achieve their desired outcome. For example, blending soy wax with beeswax can create a longer-lasting candle with a unique texture.

Q: How much fragrance oil should I use in my candles?

A: The amount of fragrance oil needed depends on several factors including the type of wax used, the size of your container or mold, and your personal preference. As a general rule of thumb, most fragrances require 6-10% fragrance oil by weight.

Q: What is “cure time” for candles?

A: Cure time refers to the period after pouring your candle where it needs to sit and cool completely before burning. This allows the wax to fully set and the fragrance to properly bind with the wax, resulting in a stronger scent throw.

Q: Can I use essential oils instead of fragrance oils in my candles?

A: Yes, you can use essential oils in your candles but they may not provide as strong of a scent throw as fragrance oils. It’s important to research which essential oils are safe for candle-making and how much should be used.

Q: How long should I let my candle cure before burning it?

A: The amount of time needed for curing can vary depending on the type of wax used and other factors such as humidity. As a general rule of thumb, most candles need at least 48 hours to cure before burning.