Wax melts have taken the home fragrance world by storm – and for good reason. Whether you're looking to freshen up your space, save money, or explore alternatives to candles, wax melts offer a stylish and practical solution. In this post, I’ll answer all the most common questions people ask about wax melts, including how they work, how long they last, and how they compare to candles.
What Is the Point of a Wax Melt?
A wax melt is a flameless home fragrance option made from scented wax. Unlike candles, wax melts don't have a wick – they’re gently heated in a wax warmer, which slowly releases their scent.
Benefits of Wax Melts:
- No flame required – safer around kids and pets
- Stronger scent throw than many candles
- Cost-effective – reusable multiple times
- Fun to customise – change scents easily
Are Wax Melts Better Than Candles?
In many ways, yes – especially if fragrance is your main goal. Wax melts:
- Often give off stronger, longer-lasting scent
- Don’t produce soot or smoke
- Are cheaper to use regularly
- Offer more control over intensity and duration
How Long Do Wax Melts Last?
Most wax melts will last between 6 and 12 hours of scent time, but this varies depending on:
- The size of the wax melt
- The wax warmer temperature
- The fragrance oil concentration
You can reuse a wax melt several times until the scent fades.
Why Don’t My Wax Melts Smell for Long?
If your wax melts aren’t lasting, it could be due to:
- A cooler wax burner
- Leaving the melt unused for too long
- Low-quality fragrance oils
- Poor wax-to-fragrance ratio
I use the highest quality fragrance oils, sourced entirely in the UK. I also use the optimum wax-to-oil ratios to ensure a strong, long-lasting scent.
Pro tip: Store melts in a sealed container away from direct sunlight and heat to keep them fresh!
Which Wax Melts Smell the Longest?
Look for wax melts that use:
- Soy wax blends (they hold scent better)
- High fragrance oil content
Handmade, small-batch wax melts tend to outperform mass-produced ones in both scent strength and longevity. I use a premium soy wax blend, with optimum fragrance oil load.
Do Wax Melts Smell More Than Candles?
Yes! Because wax melts don’t use a flame, more fragrance is released into the air rather than being burned off. That’s why many people say wax melts smell stronger and cleaner than candles.
Can I Use Candles as Wax Melts?
Some people cut up an old candle and melt it in a wax warmer, but be cautious – candles aren't always made for melting this way. Some may smoke or burn unevenly. Stick to products designed for wax warmers when possible.
Is It Cheaper to Use Wax Melts or Candles?
Wax melts are generally much cheaper per use. A single wax melt can cost as little as a few pounds and last several sessions, while candles are used up faster and cost more per burn.
You’ll also find:
- Less waste
- Longer shelf life
- Better scent-to-price ratio
How Do I Use Wax Melts Without a Burner?
You can’t really use them properly without heat. However, you can try:
- Placing in drawers or wardrobes as a passive scent option
- Using a tea light in a ceramic burner
- Investing in an electric wax warmer (safer, no flame)
Why Are Wax Melts Cheaper Than Candles?
There’s no wick, no jar, and no packaging fuss. You’re just paying for pure scented wax – and that’s why wax melts are such great value!
Are Wax Melts Healthier Than Candles?
Because they don't produce an open flame or soot, wax melts:
- Don’t release carcinogens associated with burning wicks
- Are safer for sensitive airways
- Have cleaner indoor air effects
How Many Times Can You Use a Wax Melt?
You can reuse the same wax melt until the scent disappears. On average, this means 3-5 uses per melt, depending on how long you warm it for each time.
Are Wax Melts Just Candles Without Wicks?
In simple terms – yes! They’re both made from scented wax, but wax melts are:
- Wick-free
- Flameless
- Heated using a warmer instead of being lit
This makes them more versatile and ideal for when you want to change scents regularly.
Final Thoughts
Wax melts are a brilliant alternative to candles, offering stronger scents, better value, and a safer experience. Whether you're new to home fragrance or looking for a cleaner, more customisable way to scent your space, give wax melts a go – your nose (and your wallet) will thank you.
Ready to try for yourself? Check out my bestselling handmade wax melts in a wide range of luxurious scents 👉 Browse Wax Melts