Ever poured a soy wax candle that smelled amazing in the jar, only to have it barely scent the room when burning? A weak scent throw can be incredibly frustrating for candle makers. But don’t worry, as achieving a strong, room-filling fragrance with soy candles is entirely possible.
This article explores key methods to maximise the scent throw in soy candles, ensuring a rich and lasting aroma.
- Choose the Right Fragrance Oil
Using high-quality fragrance oils is essential, as the quality significantly impacts the scent throw. Premium oils ensure a stronger and more enduring aroma. Additionally, it’s also important to optimise the fragrance load.
For soy wax, a fragrance load of 6–10% is recommended. Exceeding this can lead to issues such as poor burning and fragrance pooling. Blending complementary scents can enhance the overall scent experience. For example, pairing citrus with floral notes can create a more complex and appealing aroma.
- Optimise the Wax and Fragrance Ratio
Optimising the wax and fragrance ratio is key. Soy wax absorbs fragrance differently than paraffin wax, requiring careful balancing to achieve the best scent throw. This is why it is important to ensure you maintain a proper balance.
Too little fragrance results in a weak scent, while too much can cause separation issues. Stick to the recommended 6–10% fragrance load. Avoid overloading the wax, as exceeding the fragrance limit can lead to poor burning, tunnelling, and uneven scent distribution.
- Use the Correct Wick Size and Material
The wick is crucial for candle performance. It controls how evenly the candle burns and how well the fragrance is released. Cotton wicks offer a consistent flame and are a reliable choice. Wooden wicks create a wider melt pool, which can improve fragrance throw, and also provide a pleasant crackling sound. However, it’s essential to test different wick sizes to find the best one.
A wick that’s too small won’t melt enough wax, hindering scent throw, while a wick that’s too large can create a dangerous flame and burn through the candle too quickly. Experiment to find the perfect wick that creates a full melt pool reaching the container’s edges without excessive smoke or a large flame.
- Perfect the Candle Pouring Temperature
Getting the pouring temperature right is essential for fragrance binding. For soy wax, the ideal range is typically 60–70°C. Pouring within this range allows the fragrance oil to properly mix with the wax. If the wax is too cool, the fragrance may not blend evenly.
If it’s too hot, the fragrance can evaporate, weakening the scent. Use a reliable thermometer to monitor the wax temperature and gently stir in the fragrance once the target temperature is reached. It is important to pour slowly to avoid air bubbles.
- Cure Your Candles Properly
Curing is a critical step in candle making that significantly impacts fragrance strength and longevity. It’s the process where the fragrance fully bonds with the wax. For soy candles, a 1-2 week curing period is typically recommended. During this time, store candles in a cool, dark, and dry environment. Avoid direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations, as these can negatively affect the fragrance and wax.
Proper curing results in a stronger, longer-lasting scent. It allows the fragrance to fully develop and integrate with the wax, leading to a more consistent scent release during burning. Rushing or skipping this step can result in a weaker scent throw and a shorter fragrance lifespan. A well-cured candle provides a more satisfying and complete fragrance experience.
- Consider Candle Placement for Optimal Scent Throw
Candle placement greatly influences how effectively the fragrance is dispersed, as air circulation in different placements can differ. While some air movement helps distribute scent, avoid strong drafts, which can lead to uneven burning. For example, smaller rooms generally maximise fragrance due to the confined space. In larger rooms, multiple candles may be necessary for a noticeable scent.
Placing candles at approximately nose level can also improve scent diffusion. Consider the room’s purpose when selecting a fragrance and its placement. For example, a bedroom might benefit from a lighter scent, while a living room could handle a stronger one. Think about where people typically sit or move within the room to optimise fragrance distribution. Avoid placing candles in areas where they are likely to collide over or near flammable materials.
Conclusion
Increasing the scent throw in soy wax candles requires careful attention to fragrance selection, wick sizing, pouring temperatures, and curing times. By following these steps, you can achieve a rich and lasting aroma in your soy candles. Additionally, with these tips and techniques, you can ensure that your candles not only smell great but also burn evenly and efficiently.
