How much wax should I use in my wax burner?

In this blog, we’ll explore some common mistakes people make when using wax melts, starting with the essential question: How much wax should I use in my wax burner?

How much wax should I use?

A single piece from your wax bar is usually enough. If you're wondering, "But I want a stronger fragrance, should I add more wax?" – the simple answer is no. Adding more wax can actually have the opposite effect. Overloading your burner dish can hinder the scent throw, and here's why:

When you add too much wax, it can create an overly thick layer that doesn't heat evenly. This prevents the wax from melting properly, which can reduce the release of fragrance oils. In other words, while you might think adding more will make the scent stronger, it can actually dilute the effectiveness. So, it's better to stick to one piece and allow it to melt completely to release the maximum fragrance potential.

How can I get a stronger scent?

Every home is different. Some homes have open-plan layouts, others are more compartmentalised, and some are small, while others are large. So, it’s essential to take the size and shape of the space you're trying to scent into account. If you're trying to fill a large room or an open-plan space with fragrance, it's much more effective to use two or more burners rather than trying to overload a single burner with wax. Trying to do so will not achieve a stronger scent throw and can actually make the fragrance weaker because the wax won't melt evenly.

For larger spaces, we recommend using a combination of traditional tealight burners in rooms you frequently use and electric melters in rooms you occupy less often. This approach will allow you to safely and efficiently fill your home with fragrance. Plus, electric melters will help your wax last longer compared to using tealight burners alone.

Why choose electric melters?

Electric melters have the added benefit of maintaining a more consistent temperature, which allows the wax to melt evenly and release its fragrance more efficiently. However, there are some important things to keep in mind when using electric melters.

1. Power rating: Choose an electric melter that is at least 40 watts. Anything lower won’t provide enough heat to melt the wax properly and will result in little to no scent release.

2. Avoid smaller, plug-in units: Small, low-wattage, plug-in electric melters or wax company branded models are generally not powerful enough for our wax, and they won’t reach the optimal temperature needed to release the fragrance oils effectively. Ensure the wattage is sufficient for the wax to perform at its best.

What about the changing seasons?

Wax melts perform best in warmer temperatures because the heat helps activate the fragrance molecules, making them more volatile and capable of filling the air with scent. When the surrounding air is warmer, the molecules in the wax are energised, allowing the fragrance to diffuse more effectively. The ideal temperature range for optimal performance of wax melts is between 68°F and 77°F (20°C to 25°C). In this temperature range, the wax melts efficiently, releasing a steady and well-balanced fragrance.

It's important to keep in mind that during warmer months, when windows and doors are often open, the scent from your wax melts can easily escape through these openings. The fragrance molecules tend to travel towards open areas, so when your windows and doors are ajar, the scent may not stay within the room as effectively. To maximise the fragrance throw and ensure the scent stays in the space you're trying to fill, it’s best to keep windows and doors closed while using wax melts during the warmer months. This will help trap the scent inside, allowing you to enjoy the full aroma of your wax for a longer period of time.

On the other hand, in colder environments, the fragrance molecules in the wax become less active. As the temperature drops, the wax hardens, and the scent molecules are less likely to evaporate into the air. This results in a weaker or slower scent release, meaning your wax melts may not perform as well when the room temperature is too low.

Why Quality Matters in Tealights:

Cheap tealights often burn unevenly, which can affect both the lifespan of the candle and the performance of your wax melts. Low-quality tealights may burn too quickly in some areas or unevenly in the wax pool, which means they don’t provide a consistent source of heat for your wax melts. This inconsistency can result in your wax not melting properly or at an even rate, which ultimately reduces the scent throw and fragrance release. When the wax doesn’t melt evenly, the fragrance oils may not be released in the most effective way, leading to weaker or patchy scent distribution.

A good-quality tealight, on the other hand, is designed to burn consistently and evenly, providing a steady, reliable heat source for your wax melts. The casing of a well-made tealight will typically burn cleanly, with very little to no wax residue left in the cup once the flame goes out. This indicates that the candle has burned properly and that the heat provided was sufficient to melt your wax evenly, helping to maximise the scent throw.

Don't Compromise on Quality:

While it might seem like a small detail, using cheap, low-quality tealights can significantly impact the overall experience of your wax melts. If the candle burns unevenly or too quickly, you may find yourself replacing it more often, leading to wasted wax and less effective scent delivery. On the other hand, investing in a quality tealight ensures that the heat source is consistent, allowing your wax to melt slowly and release its fragrance more effectively, while also extending the life of your wax.

In summary, although high-quality tealights might cost a little more upfront, they ensure that your wax melts perform at their best, providing consistent fragrance and better value over time. Don't compromise on the quality of your tealights—it's an essential part of getting the most out of your wax melting experience.

We hope this blog has helped to clarify some of the science behind using wax melts, as well as provided insight into the key dos and don’ts. While it may seem like a straightforward process—simply pop the wax in the dish and you're all set—there’s actually a lot more to getting the best results than you might think. By considering factors like temperature, the type of burner, the quality of your tealights and room size you can significantly enhance the fragrance throw and longevity of your wax melts.

Our goal with this blog is to ensure that you're able to achieve the most effective and enjoyable experience when using our products. We believe that with the right knowledge and approach, you'll get the full potential from every purchase, filling your home with long-lasting, vibrant fragrance. Thanks for taking the time to read through these tips—we hope they help you make the most of your wax melt experience!