Have you ever wanted to enjoy the soothing scent of candles but prefer an alternative to essential oils? Look no further! In this guide, we will explore how you can add a delightful aroma to your handmade candles without relying on essential oils. By the end, you’ll be a candle-making expert and ready to create your own personalized scented candles.
Table of Contents
Why Choose Alternatives to Essential Oils?
While essential oils are popular choices for adding fragrance to candles, there are valid reasons to explore other options. Some people may have allergies or sensitivities to certain oils, while others may simply prefer a different type of fragrance. Additionally, using alternative ingredients can be more cost-effective, allowing you to create a broader range of scented candles without breaking the bank.
Different Methods of Adding Scent to Candles
There are several ways to add fragrance to candles without resorting to essential oils. In this guide, we will cover three main alternatives: natural herbs, spices, and fruits; fragrance oils; and, infused oils.
1. Natural Herbs, Spices, and Fruits
One of the easiest and most natural ways to add scent to your candles is by using dried herbs, spices, or fruit peels. Not only do these ingredients add beautiful fragrances, but they also create visually stunning candles.
- Dried Herbs: Lavender, rosemary, chamomile, and mint are popular choices that can provide a lovely and subtle scent to your candles. Consider matching the scent of the herb to the color of your candle for a harmonious combination.
- Spices: Cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg offer warm, spicy scents that are perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere. You can even mix different spices together to create your own unique fragrances.
- Fruit Peels: Dried citrus peels such as orange, lemon, or grapefruit provide a zesty, refreshing scent. You can experiment with different types of fruit peels to achieve your desired aroma.
To use these ingredients, simply add them to the melted wax before pouring it into your candle mold, ensuring they are well distributed for an even scent.
2. Fragrance Oils
Fragrance oils are another alternative to essential oils for adding scent to candles. These synthetic oils are specifically designed to mimic a wide range of aromas, from florals and fruits to spices and musks. They are usually more cost-effective than essential oils and can offer a stronger, longer-lasting scent.
When using fragrance oils, it’s essential to choose ones that are designed for use in candles and check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the proper ratio of oil to wax. Generally, you’ll need about 1 oz of fragrance oil for every 1 lb of wax.
3. Infused Oils
Infused oils are carrier oils that have been steeped with fragrant herbs, flowers, or spices. This method allows you to create a more subtle, natural scent compared to fragrance oils, while still avoiding the use of essential oils.
To make infused oils, simply fill a jar with your chosen herbs, flowers, or spices, cover them with a carrier oil (such as almond, coconut, or jojoba), and place the jar in a warm, sunny spot for a few weeks. Once the oil has absorbed the scent, strain the mixture, and discard any solid ingredients. You can then add the infused oil to your melted wax for a uniquely fragrant candle.
How To Add Scent To Candles Without Essential Oils Example:
Imagine creating a cozy, autumn-inspired candle using natural ingredients. You decide to combine cinnamon, cloves, and dried orange peels for a warm, inviting aroma. First, measure out the desired amount of wax for your candle mold and melt it using a double boiler. As the wax melts, add your dried orange peels, cinnamon, and cloves, stirring gently to ensure even distribution. Carefully pour the scented wax into your mold, and allow it to cool and harden. Once your candle is complete, light it and enjoy the delightful, autumnal atmosphere it creates.
Now that you’re equipped with various methods to add fragrance to your candles without essential oils, it’s time to unleash your creativity and experiment with different scents, ingredients, and combinations. Don’t forget to share your favorite scented candle creations with friends and family, and encourage them to explore the wonderful world of candle-making too! For additional guides and tips on creating the perfect scented atmosphere, head over to the Oshu Oils blog, where you’ll also find our fantastic range of artisan essential earth oils.
