Candles not only create different moods thanks to their scents but are an easy, instant way to accent your interior. Despite being on the smaller scale of the accessories spectrum, there’s more to consider than you’d think when it comes to choosing the perfect candle.
From the effects of different fragrant notes to how many wicks you need, let our candle buying guide take you through the elements to consider in your decision making process.
Types of Candles
Thinking about the purpose of your candle will help you to make the right choice from the wide range of styles available. Consider whether you want the look and fragrance of your design to make a bold statement or subtle addition to your space.
Scented candles
Scented candles are the answer for ultimate escapism. Like any candle, they introduce a warm glow to an interior but its their fragrance that give a room a real identity. From evoking memories to setting a certain tone, scented candles create a multi-sensory experience and heightened ambience.
Scented designs generally consist of three levels: top, central and base notes. Top notes are the very first aromas to get noticed, central notes act as the core while the base notes are often more dominant and develop over time.
Decorative Candles
Decorative candles deliver aesthetic and help to shape the style of a space. They’re perfect centrepieces for dining tables and charming accents for bed side tables, coffee tables and mantelpieces.
Different sized candles offer the opportunity to play with proportion while materials – from sleek metals to ceramic surfaces—enabling you to experiment with texture.
Types of Wax
Soy Wax Candles
Formed form soybean oil, soy wax candles are natural and renewable, making them a safe and sustainable option. The natural material is biodegradable so wax spills can be easily washed out. Soy wax also boasts a lengthy, clean burn—our personal favourite being home fragrance brand Cerería Molla, recognised for its sustainability and finest materials.
Paraffin Wax Candles
As one of most common types of wax, paraffin wax is used less so in luxury candles as it produces more soot in comparison to other wax types.
Beeswax Candles
This natural product boasts a honey-like fragrance and creates a warm glow when lit. As a result, dyes and scents aren’t necessary, as beeswax candles can be enjoyed in their purest form. Beeswax candles are thought to be a beneficial option for people with allergies and, due to its high melting point, the wax is less prone to dripping.
Wicks
Multiple wicks tend to be used on larger candles and have visual and fragrant benefits. In addition to creating a more vibrant glow courtesy of multiple flames, multi-wick designs create larger pools of liquid wax, releasing a more intense fragrance. A single wick candle results in a simpler but equally beautiful look and, as long as the wick is made from quality materials such as cotton or linen, it will still emit a strong scent.
Burn Time
The burn time of a candle depends on its size and quality. Long burn times are a signifier of high calibre candles, and you can increase burn time by caring for candles correctly. Even petite design can burn for around 60 hours.