The Top 7 Scented Candle Myths Busted

Do you love the cosy ambience a scented candle creates in your home? If so, you're not alone! But with their popularity comes a flood of myths and misconceptions that can cloud your experience. 

As professional candle crafters who hand-make scented candles for a living, we've heard it all. That's why we're on a mission to shed some candlelight on the truth and debunk the most common myths about scented candles. 

So, let's dive in and get to the bottom of it - So you can make informed choices and fully enjoy the benefits of these luxurious burning beauties without the moment being spoiled by misconceptions!

• Myth 1: Scented candles are harmful to your health

This one is a biggie. But here's the truth: high-quality scented candles made from natural ingredients, such as 100% soy wax or beeswax, are generally safe to use. They don't release harmful toxins or chemicals into the air when burned. However, not all candles are created equal. Some low-quality candles made from paraffin wax can indeed emit harmful toxins. 

Companies do this because it can be tricky and expensive to produce scented candles from soy wax. For this reason, many brands use a ‘ParaSoy’ mix, which is a blend of the two waxes, to make things a little easier (and cheaper) for themselves. Sneaky, right? So, it's crucial to check the ingredients and opt for candles made from real, natural wax for the sake of your health.

• Myth 2: Burning a candle for short time periods will make it last longer

It might seem logical, but here's the catch: burning a candle for short bursts of time can actually shorten its lifespan! 

When you light a candle, a "melt pool" forms on the surface. This melted wax acts as the fuel for the flame. If you don't let the melt pool reach the edge of the container, a "tunnel" forms down the middle, and the wick gets surrounded by hardened wax that's never used. 

To maximise your candle's lifespan, aim for a full melt pool by burning it for at least 1 hour per inch in diameter of the wax at the top. It's worth the wait!

• Myth 3: It is the wick of a candle that releases fragrance into the environment

Think again! While this is a common misconception, the truth is a bit more complex. 

When candles are made, fragrance oils are infused with wax molecules at high temperatures to create a fused mixture. When you light the candle, the burning wick heats up the wax and oil mixture, turning it into a liquid. 

It's at this moment that the fragrance molecules are released into the air, creating a delightful scent in your space. So, it's not just the wick, but the entire melt pool that contributes to the aroma. The bigger the pool, the more fragrance you'll enjoy!

• Myth 4: Soy Wax doesn’t perform as well as other waxes

This one needs some clarification. While there's a misconception that soy candles are inferior to other types of wax, the truth is that the performance of a soy candle depends on various factors, such as the quality of the wax, the wick, fragrance choice, and design. 

In fact, soy candles have some significant advantages! They are made from a renewable and sustainable source, soybean oil, making them an eco-friendly choice. They are also biodegradable and produce less soot when burned. Plus, soy candles have a lower melting point, resulting in a longer burn time and more hours of enjoying their lovely scent.

• Myth 5: Scented candles are just for fragrance

Busted! Scented candles are more than just a pretty scent. Sure, they can make your home smell divine, but they can also create an atmosphere of serenity and tranquillity. 

The mesmerising flickering flame of a well-crafted candle sets the perfect mood for some self-care and mindfulness, taking you on a sensory journey to relaxation (which is exactly what we strive for at self (ish) company, where we handcraft the most delightful candles on the market).

But wait, there's more! Scented candles can also be a focal point for enhancing your home decor. They add a touch of elegance and charm to any room, elevating its aesthetic appeal. So, don't limit scented candles to just their fragrance, they offer a world of benefits for your well-being and home ambiance.

• Myth 6: All scented candles are the same

Hold on! Not all scented candles are created equal. It's a common misconception that they are all alike, but that couldn't be further from the truth. 

The quality of ingredients, craftsmanship, and fragrance strength can vary significantly among different brands and types of candles.

Top-notch scented candles use natural ingredients and masterful craftsmanship to ensure a clean, long-lasting burn and an authentic fragrance experience. On the other hand, cheap, mass-produced candles often contain paraffin wax, low-quality fragrance oil, and lead core wicks that can emit black soot or cause headaches when burned.

So, choose wisely! Don't settle for subpar candles. Look for trusted brands that prioritise quality and safety, as the difference between a good and a bad candle is as clear as day and night.

• Myth 7: Scented candles are expensive

Think again! While it's true that high-quality scented candles may come with a higher price tag, they are worth every penny.

As we've mentioned before, premium candles made from natural ingredients tend to burn longer, be cleaner, and offer a superior fragrance experience compared to cheaper alternatives. Plus, investing in scented candles can be viewed as an act of self-care, allowing you to create a soothing and relaxing ambiance in your home, and promoting a sense of well-being.

So, don't be discouraged by the price tag. Consider the value and benefits that high-quality scented candles can bring to your life, which cheap, mass-produced candles simply cannot match. Treat yourself to a little luxury with candles that are truly worth it!

In conclusion, we hope this post has shattered some common myths about scented candles and shed light on their true benefits and versatility. Don't let misconceptions hold you back from enjoying the beauty and aroma of scented candles in your everyday life.

With our range of top-quality handmade scented soy candles made from sustainable materials at self (ish) company, you can trust that our soy candles will envelop you in a world of relaxation and comfort, allowing you to sit back and indulge in their captivating scents.

So why not treat yourself to the warm glow and delightful fragrances of scented candles? Break free from myths and misconceptions, and experience the magic of these versatile home essentials.

Happy candle burning!