There’s something almost meditative about lighting a scented candle. The flame flickers to life, and slowly the room fills with a soft note of sandalwood, freshly brewed tea or perhaps a hint of bergamot. Suddenly the home feels more alive, as if the scent is weaving itself into the soul of the room.

Scented candles are more than just a decorative detail – they are small mood enhancers that affect both mood and atmosphere. The right scent can bring a calmer mind, a warmer feeling or an elegant touch to a room. But how do you know which scents are right for where? And what ingredients should you look out for?

We dive into the world of scented candles – from wax types and essential oils to how you can use them to create a harmonious whole in your home. Join us.

What are scented candles and how do they work?

A scented candle is more than just melted wax and a wick — it’s a little alchemical process where heat transforms solid scent molecules into an atmospheric experience. When the candle is lit, the wax begins to melt around the wick, and the essential oils or fragrances are slowly released into the air.

But not all scented candles are created equal. The quality of a scented candle is determined by several factors: the type of wax, the fragrances used, and how the wick is constructed. A natural wick made of cotton or wood burns more evenly, while some synthetic wicks can give off a sooty flame.

The role of wax in the construction of scented candles

Wax is the foundation of a scented candle and affects both the burn time and how well the scent spreads. Here are some of the most common types:

• Soy wax ⎯ Perhaps the most widely used wax today. A natural alternative that burns slowly and evenly. The wax is hotly debated as soy production is strongly associated with rainforest deforestation.
• Beeswax ⎯ Gives a subtle honey scent and is a natural air purifier. Adds a yellow tone to the wax and is also a common additive to stabilize other plant-based wax types.
• Paraffin wax ⎯ Common in cheaper candles, but can emit more soot and synthetic substances. Paraffin is mainly made from petroleum, so you can basically say that you are burning crude oil.
• Coconut wax ⎯ A more luxurious variant that provides a creamy consistency and even fragrance distribution. However, scented candles made from 100% coconut wax have a harder time spreading the scent over longer distances. From sustainable cultivations, this is a good environmentally friendly alternative.
• Rapeseed wax ⎯ A natural wax that has gained popularity in recent years. The wax is usually harder and easier to mix with fragrance oils in its pure form. An environmentally friendly alternative.

The structure of the fragrance ⎯ a symphony of notes

Just like a perfume, a scented candle is made up of several layers ⎯ top notes, heart notes and base notes ⎯ that together create a holistic experience. The first notes make an immediate impression, while the base lingers and shapes the candle's long-lasting character.

Top notes ⎯ the first feeling

Light a candle, and the first thing you smell are the top notes. They are light, fleeting, and usually disappear within the first 10–15 minutes. Common top notes include:

• Fresh citrus scents like bergamot, lemon and grapefruit.
• Aromatic herbs such as eucalyptus, mint and rosemary.
• Fruity hints of apple, peach or black currant.

The heart notes ⎯ the soul of the fragrance

As the top notes fade, the heart notes emerge. They form the very core of the fragrance and are often softer, more floral or spicy. Here we often find:

• Floral notes like jasmine, lavender and peony.
• Spicy elements such as cinnamon, cardamom and cloves.
• Fruity accents of figs, plums or red berries.

The base notes ⎯ what lingers

The base notes are the pillars of the candle and the ones that linger the longest in the room, sometimes for hours after the flame has gone out. They are deep, earthy and often a little mysterious:

• Woody notes of sandalwood, cedarwood and patchouli.
• Soft, warm notes of vanilla, amber and musk.
• Smoky and balsamic notes like frankincense and tonka bean.

The perfect combination of these three levels creates a fragrance experience that feels both thoughtful and addictive.

Benefits of using scented candles at home

Scented candles do more than just provide a pleasant scent — they have the ability to influence mood, energy, and the way we experience a room. Some scents calm the mind, others invigorate, and some can even evoke nostalgic memories of times gone by. Here are some of the biggest benefits of surrounding yourself with scented candles.

1. Creates a harmonious atmosphere

There’s a reason we light candles on dark evenings or for special occasions ⎯ candlelight provides a sense of presence and warmth. When you add a scent to the flame, the experience becomes even more enchanting. A soft candle with notes of vanilla and sandalwood can transform a cold room into a warm oasis, while a fresh citrus scent can give a kitchen a crisp, clean feel.

2. Affects mood and state of mind

Aromatherapy is no myth. Scent molecules have a direct connection to the brain's limbic system, which controls emotions and memories. There is also research that shows that the positive effects of scent evoke positive emotions and memories, which may explain why some scents feel more soothing or nostalgic.

⎯ Lavender and pine ⎯ Perfect for calming nerves and creating a relaxing atmosphere in the bedroom.
⎯ Citrus and Peppermint ⎯ Invigorating scents that increase focus and energy, ideal for the home office.
⎯ Vanilla and tonka bean ⎯ Warming and safe scents that create a cozy and inviting feeling in the living room.

3. Can enhance the feel of the interior

Scented candles are more than just a scent experience — they are part of the decor. A minimalist glass cup with a simple white candle can enhance a Scandinavian aesthetic, while a dark, heavy ceramic pot with a spicy scent fits perfectly in a home with a bohemian feel. By choosing scents that match the style and energy of your home, you can create a holistic experience that feels thoughtful and harmonious.

4. A subtle signature scent for your home

We often associate places with specific scents. Just as some hotels or stores have their own signature scent, your home can too. By consistently using a particular scent ⎯ perhaps sandalwood, cedarwood or fig ⎯ you create a subtle but unmistakable sense of homecoming.

5. A ritual for calm and awareness

Lighting a scented candle can be a small ritual that creates a sense of calm and presence in everyday life. It can signal the start of a quiet moment with a book, a moment of meditation or just a way to unwind after a busy day. Scent and candle combined become a subtle reminder to take a deep breath and land in the present.

How to choose the right scented candle for your home

Choosing a scented candle is a bit like choosing a perfume ⎯ it's about more than just a pleasant scent. It should feel right for the room, the season, and your mood. Here are some guidelines to help you find the perfect scented candle for your home.

1. Adapt the scent to the room

Each room has its own energy, and the scent should harmonize with it.

• The bedroom ⎯ Here you want to create a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Scents like lavender, vanilla and sandalwood are perfect for promoting sleep and peace.
• The living room ⎯ The social heart of the home deserves a warm and inviting scent. Think woody notes of cedar and musk, or something soft and luxurious like fig and tonka bean.
• The kitchen ⎯ Fresh and clean scents work best here ⎯ citrus, eucalyptus or basil neutralize cooking odors and give a fresh feeling.
• The bathroom ⎯ A spa-like feeling is created with scents of eucalyptus, sea salt or white tea.

2. Adapt to the season

Just as we change perfume or clothes according to the season, scented candles can follow the changes of the seasons.

• Spring ⎯ Light, fresh floral scents like peony, jasmine or citrus.
• Summer ⎯ Sea breeze, coconut, lime and sun-warmed fruits give a tropical feel.
• Autumn ⎯ Spicy notes like cinnamon, cardamom and burnt sugar create a warm and cozy atmosphere.
• Winter ⎯ Deep, cozy scents of cedarwood, amber and warm vanilla make the home feel embracing.

3. Quality over quantity

Not all scented candles are created equal. If you want a pure, long-lasting scent experience, it's worth investing in high-quality candles.

• Choose natural wax ⎯ Soy wax, coconut wax or beeswax provide a smoother and cleaner burn compared to paraffin.
• Avoid synthetic fragrances ⎯ Look for candles with natural essential oils instead of artificial fragrances, which can sometimes feel chemical or overpowering.
• Check the wick ⎯ A wooden wick crackles pleasantly and gives a rustic feel, while a cotton wick provides a stable and soot-free flame.

4. Test and combine scents

Just like with perfume, you can build a unique scent experience by combining multiple scented candles. A vanilla candle can be balanced with a woody note of cedar, or you can mix citrus and herbs for a fresher scent.

5. Consider the scent intensity

Some scented candles are subtle and blend into the background, while others are powerful and fill an entire room. Larger rooms often require a candle with a higher scent concentration or multiple candles to create an effect. Experiment to find the right balance.

Creative ways to use scented candles in your interior design

Scented candles are not just a fragrant detail ⎯ they can also serve as an aesthetic part of your interior design. Placed correctly, they can enhance the style of your home, create cozy corners and even act as a personal statement. There is also a reason why we keep a clean and stylish design. The idea is that our scented candles should fit in most homes and interior styles. Here are some inspiring ways to integrate scented candles into your interior design.

1. Build a harmonious lighting installation

Place several candles of different sizes and shapes together to create an elegant and inviting feel. A group of three to five candles on a beautiful dish ⎯ preferably in different materials such as glass, ceramic and metal ⎯ gives a naturally balanced look.

2. Use scented candles as part of your coffee table styling

A scented candle can lift the whole feel of your coffee table. Pair it with a stack of beautiful books, a minimalist vase of fresh flowers, and perhaps a small sculpture. This way, the scented candle becomes a natural part of the room, rather than just a functional detail.

3. Enhance the feel of the bathroom

A scented candle by the edge of the bathtub or sink instantly creates a luxurious, spa-like feel. Candles with notes of eucalyptus, sea salt or white tea enhance the feeling of freshness and relaxation. Want to take it a step further? Place the candle in a beautiful marble bowl or on a small wooden tray for an extra stylish touch.

4. Create a welcoming entrance

The first impression of a home begins in the hallway. A scented candle with a subtle but distinctive scent ⎯ perhaps fig, cedarwood or bergamot ⎯ can create a warm and inviting feeling right at the door.

5. Use light to define different rooms

Different scents can help to define different zones in your home. A fresh, invigorating light in your home office can signal productivity, while a softer, calming scent in your bedroom can help you unwind. By letting each room have its own signature scent, you create a subtle yet thoughtful atmosphere.

Final squeeze ⎯ a scent journey through your home

Scented candles are more than just a detail - we believe they are an experience. They can transform a room, enhance a feeling and even profoundly affect our mood. By choosing the right scents, materials and placement, you can create a harmonious atmosphere that reflects your style and personality.

Whether you light a candle to unwind after a long day, welcome guests with a signature scent, or just add an extra dimension to your decor, it's a small act with a big impact.

So the next time you light a candle, take a deep breath and let the scent take you somewhere ⎯ perhaps to a sun-warmed Mediterranean garden, a misty forest glade, or just a moment of stillness in your own home.

Sources:

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3612440/

https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/00207450601042094