Caroline's Candle Guide
I am a huge fan of lighting candles in Autumn, and creating a warm and inviting environment at home as the nights grow longer. There’s nothing like the warm flicker of a flame when the weather is chilly outside, and we are cosy inside. But with endless options on the market, finding a candle that suits your home and values can feel overwhelming. Here’s my guide to choosing a candle that not only looks and smells right but also looks after your wellbeing and also the environment. According to Supplies for Candles, ' It’s never been more important to be self-aware of the actions you take and your impact on the world. Knowing exactly which ingredients are sustainable can be difficult to wrap your head around'.
CHOOSING THE WAX
Most candles you’ll find are made from paraffin wax, which is a byproduct of petrol. Although a cheaper version than plant-based wax, paraffin tends to produce sooty smoke that can compromise the air in your home. A better option? Candles made from natural waxes, like a sustainable soy. These plant-based, sustainable waxes offer a cleaner burn and are fantastic at holding and throwing fragrance. With a little care, they’ll give you an even, long-lasting burn and a rich, inviting scent throw.
CHOOSING THE SCENT
With so many fragrances out there, choosing the right one can be a sensory adventure. We recommend looking for candles that use essential oils rather than artificial fragrances. Synthetic scents can often feel a bit heavy and lack the layered depth of natural blends. They can also induce allergic reactions in sensitive people, including headaches and asthma. Essential oils, on the other hand, not only have an authentic richness but also help candles burn more steadily and slowly.
Once you’ve found a natural wax candle, think about the mood you’d like to create. Citrusy scents offer a fresh, uplifting atmosphere, while floral and herbal fragrances bring a sense of calm and grounding. A seasonal scent such as MadeKind 'Wintering' is warm and festive creating the perfect cosy atmosphere for the Winter months. You can even layer fragrances for each room by using different candle scents, creating a unique mood in every corner of your home.
Caring for your candle is key to getting the most from it. With a little attention, you’ll find that it burns longer, cleaner, and fills your space with a beautiful, consistent glow.
THE FIRST TIME YOU BURN
The first burn sets the tone, so make sure you have a couple of hours to spare. Allow the wax to melt all the way to the edges of the jar or glass on this first burn. This helps prevent “tunneling” – that annoying hollowed center – which will keep the candle from burning fully if it happens. If you notice the wax melting unevenly, give the candle a gentle turn to keep things even.
WHERE TO PLACE YOUR CANDLE
Placement matters. Keep your candle away from drafts – open windows, vents, or anywhere breezy – as airflow can cause uneven burning and make the candle burn down faster on one side. Also, be mindful of nearby curtains or loose fabrics
TRIM THE WICK
After each burn, trim the wick to about 5mm. A clean, trimmed wick keeps soot at bay and helps the candle burn evenly. Use a wick trimmer if you have one, or scissors work just as well. It’s a simple step but makes a world of difference for a cleaner, steadier burn every time.
Now you've chosen the correct candle for you, sit back and enjoy the warm glow and aromatherapy benefits you are getting from the essential oils. The best part, you can relax in the knowledge that you have chosen the best candle for you, and also for the planet.
REUSE YOUR CANDLE POT
When your candle finally burns down, don't throw it out but give it a new purpose. Use hot water to melt any leftover wax, then wash the pot with warm soapy water. You can then repurpose ti as a toothbrush holder, pen pot or as I do, small vases for table decorations. It's a beautiful way to keep enjoying your candle, long after the last flame.
Take a look at MadeKind's Home Fragrance Collection.