How to Enhance the Smell of a Candle: Key Factors for Better Scent Throw
Many factors can affect the scent throw in finished candles. Here are some variables that can impact scent throw:
Type of Wax Used
Impact on Scent Throw: Fragrance oils can perform very differently based on the type of wax used. Some fragrance oils, no matter how much trial and error, just will not blend with certain types of waxes. Soy waxes are known to be more ‘picky’ about the fragrance oils that work well in them. Generally, paraffin waxes still provide better scent throw than soy waxes.
Fragrance Oil Brand
Quality and Ingredients: Some fragrance oils are manufactured stronger than others using more natural ingredients and lower amounts of solvent, which tones down the fragrance strength. Choosing high-quality fragrance oils is crucial for making strong scented candles.
Fragrance Notes
Strength and Intensity: Not all fragrance oils are meant to have overpowering strength. Some are designed to provide a soft, subtle scent. Understanding the fragrance notes can help in selecting the right oils for your desired scent throw.
Amount of Fragrance Oil Used
Optimal Usage: Using too little fragrance oil will lead to a candle with very little scent throw. We recommend using our fragrance oils at 1 oz. per pound for optimal scent throw. Some fragrance oils on the market are manufactured at lower strength levels and may require up to 1.5 to 2 oz. of fragrance per pound. However, using too much fragrance oil can impair burning characteristics and does not necessarily enhance the smell of a candle.
Temperature at Which the Fragrance Was Added
Temperature Control: Adding fragrance oil at too high of a temperature may cause it to dissipate or burn off in the melted wax. Adding fragrance oil at too low of a temperature may prevent it from dispersing and binding uniformly in the melted wax. We recommend adding fragrance oil around 180° - 185°, which we have found to be a good temperature that is not too hot or too cool for making strong scented candles.
Additives Used
Enhancing Fragrance Retention: The use of additives, such as vybar, can enable wax to retain higher fragrance loads. However, many waxes on the market today come pre-blended and already contain additives. They can retain fragrance loads of 8% - 12%, and additional additives are generally not needed. For certain waxes, such as straight paraffin wax, additives can aid the wax in holding higher amounts of fragrance oil.
Proper Wick Selection/Size
Achieving the Right Burn Pool: Having the right wick size to achieve the proper burn pool can help with the scent throw. Too small of a wick will create a small burn pool, leading to poor scent throw. Too large of a wick may burn too hot and burn off the fragrance, also leading to poor scent throw. Finding a wick that has a steady flame and creates a full burn pool of approximately 1/4" to 1/2" deep can help with achieving good scent throw.
Time Allowed for Curing
Curing Recommendations: Allowing sufficient time for curing is essential for enhancing the scent throw. Here are our recommendations:
Paraffin Wax: Allow curing for at least 24 - 48 hours.
Soy Wax: Allow curing for at least 1 - 2 weeks.
Additional Tips for Making Strong Scented Candles
Experimentation:
Test Small Batches: Always test small batches when experimenting with new fragrance oils or waxes.
Record Results: Keep detailed records of your processes and results to replicate successful batches.
Understanding Hot Throw in Candle Making
Hot Throw: Refers to the scent throw when the candle is burning. Ensuring good hot throw involves selecting the right wax, wick, and fragrance oil, as well as allowing proper curing time.
Achieving the Best Scent Throw
Understanding and controlling the various factors that affect scent throw can significantly enhance the smell of a candle. By carefully selecting your wax, fragrance oil, and wick, and by following the recommended steps for adding fragrance and curing, you can make strong scented candles that fill a room with delightful aromas. Keep experimenting and refining your techniques to achieve the best results.
