Making Scented Candles Without Fragrance: Is It Possible?

Scented candles are a great way to create a cosy and inviting atmosphere in your home. While essential oils are a popular choice for adding fragrance to candles, they are not the only option. It is possible to make scented candles without using any fragrance at all. This can be achieved by using natural ingredients such as vanilla extract, dried lavender flowers, tea leaves, or even coffee grounds. These ingredients can be added to the melted wax before pouring it into a container. Another option is to use herbs and spices such as cinnamon, cloves, or rose petals to infuse your candles with a warm, spicy aroma. Citrus fruits like lemons and oranges can also be used to add a fresh, clean scent.

Using herbs and spices like cinnamon, cloves, and rose petals

You can use herbs and spices such as cinnamon and cloves to make scented candles without fragrance oils. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Gathering Your Materials

You will need:

• A candle container (a glass jar, tin, or any heat-resistant container)
• Candle wax (soy wax, beeswax, or paraffin wax)
• A wick sustainer (a metal disc or clip)
• Cloves (whole or ground)
• A double boiler or a heat-resistant container and a pot
• A stirring utensil (such as a wooden spoon)

Preparing the Candle Container

Ensure that your candle container is clean and dry. Place the wick sustainer at the bottom of the container and secure the wick in place using a dot of hot glue or a small amount of melted wax.

Choosing the Right Wax

Select a wax that suits your preferences and needs. Soy wax is a popular choice for homemade candles due to its eco-friendly nature and clean burn. Beeswax offers a natural honey scent, while paraffin wax is a more traditional option. Choose a wax that melts well and holds fragrance effectively.

Adding Herbs and Spices for Scent

Decide on the type and amount of herbs and spices you want to use. For example, whole cloves can provide a subtle scent and a visually appealing element, while ground cloves offer a stronger and more immediate fragrance. Cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon can also be used to add a warm, spicy scent. Rose petals can be added for a floral touch, but be aware that fresh petals may not hold their scent as well as dried ones. Experiment with different combinations and amounts to achieve your desired aroma.

Selecting the Wick and Wick Sustainer

Choose a wick that is appropriate for the size of your candle container. The diameter and height of the container will determine the correct wick size. The wick sustainer will keep the wick centred and in place during the candle-making process and burning.

Melting the Wax

Melt the wax using a double boiler or a heat-resistant container placed in a pot of simmering water. Follow the instructions provided with your chosen wax for specific melting temperatures. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature, ensuring it remains within the recommended range.

Adding the Herbs and Spices

Once the wax has melted, add your desired amount of herbs and spices. Stir well to ensure they are fully incorporated into the wax.

Pouring the Wax into the Container

Carefully pour the melted wax into your prepared candle container, ensuring that the wick remains centred. Leave a small amount of space at the top of the container to allow for potential shrinkage during cooling.

Allowing the Candle to Set

Let the candle cool and set completely, which may take a few hours depending on its size and the type of wax used. Avoid moving or disturbing the candle during this time to ensure a smooth and even surface.

Trimming the Wick

Once the candle has fully set, trim the wick to approximately 1/4 inch using scissors. This will promote a clean and steady burn.

Your herb and spice-scented candle is now ready to be enjoyed! Always follow proper candle safety practices and never leave a burning candle unattended.

Adding citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and grapefruits

To make a citrus-scented candle, you will need a heat-resistant container, such as a glass jar, a metal or ceramic vessel, or even a bowl or mug. You will also need wax flakes, a double boiler, a thermometer, and, of course, your chosen citrus fruit.

First, fill your container with wax flakes to measure out how much wax you will need. The amount of wax you use should be double the amount that fills your container, as wax flakes reduce in size when melted. Place the wax flakes in your double boiler and melt the wax over medium heat, stirring slowly with a spatula. For soy wax, heat the wax to around 185 degrees Fahrenheit before adding your fragrance.

Once the wax has melted and reached the correct temperature, it's time to add your citrus scent. Slice up your chosen citrus fruit and place the pieces at the bottom of your container. Then, carefully pour the melted wax into the container.

Allow the candle to cool and set. This can take a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the type of wax used. For soy candles, it is recommended to let them cure for a minimum of three days and a maximum of two weeks.

Finally, trim the wick to about 1/4 of an inch before lighting your candle.

You can also experiment with different types of citrus fruits and blends to create unique fragrances. For example, you can opt for a general citrus oil or choose a specific scent like lemon, grapefruit, or orange. You can also add dried citrus rinds to the wax as it cools for even more natural scent.

Using waxes and butters like beeswax, shea butter, and cocoa butter

Beeswax is a natural wax secreted by bees to make honeycombs. It has a natural honey scent and can be used to make scented candles without the need for additional fragrance oils. However, beeswax doesn't hold additional fragrances as well as other waxes like soy wax. Soy wax is a vegetable wax made from soybeans and is a good alternative to beeswax if you want to add stronger fragrances to your candles.

To make a candle using beeswax, you will need:

• Beeswax
• Coconut oil or another carrier oil
• A saucepan and a glass bowl (or a double boiler)
• Glass jars or containers
• Bamboo skewers or pencils
• (Optional) Essential oils or scented wax cubes

• Set up your double boiler by filling a saucepan with water and placing a glass bowl on top.
• Add coconut oil (or another carrier oil) to the glass bowl and let it melt.
• Add beeswax to the melted coconut oil. You can use beeswax pellets or grated beeswax.
• (Optional) Add cocoa butter or shea butter to the mixture. This will add a chocolate scent to your candle.
• Stir the mixture occasionally until the beeswax and butter are completely melted.
• Prepare your jars or containers. You can use glass jars, teacups, mugs, or any other heat-resistant container.
• Secure the wicks to the bottom of the jars or containers using hot glue or double-sided tape.
• Place a bamboo skewer or pencil across the top of the container and secure the wick to it to keep it centred while pouring the wax.
• Once the wax mixture is melted and well combined, carefully pour it into your prepared containers.
• Allow the candles to cool and solidify completely before cutting the wicks to the desired length.

You can also use beeswax to make tea-scented candles. For this, you will need:

• Yellow beeswax pellets
• Finely chopped tea leaves
• Olive oil
• Pre-waxed candle wicks
• Wooden candle wick holders
• Transparent candle jars

Follow these steps:

• Heat a double boiler filled with water.
• Place a saucepan on top of the double boiler and add the yellow beeswax pellets.
• Stir the mixture with a spatula or metal rod to prevent lumps from forming.
• Remove from heat and allow the wax to cool to 125°F (51.6°C).
• Add olive oil to the wax and mix well.
• Add the finely chopped tea leaves and mix well.
• Pour the melted beeswax into your candle moulds or jars.
• Centre the wicks using the wick holders.
• Allow the candles to cure for a couple of days before use.

Opting for essential oils like lavender and peppermint

When choosing essential oils for candle making, it's important to select high-quality, natural oils that are vegan, cruelty-free, and made with non-GMO ingredients extracted from plants. This ensures that your candles burn evenly, hold their scent, and fill your space with warmth and relaxation.

Lavender essential oil, known for its calming and soothing properties, is an excellent choice for relaxation candles. It can help create a more relaxing space in your home and reduce any stress you may be feeling. You can also add dried lavender petals to your candle for a natural scent and a beautiful look.

Peppermint essential oil, on the other hand, provides an energizing and refreshing scent, perfect for invigorating spaces. It can help reduce stress and improve focus, making it ideal for use during the hectic winter holiday months.

By using essential oils like lavender and peppermint, you can create scented candles that offer therapeutic benefits while also filling your home with wonderful aromas.

Additionally, you can experiment with different ratios and combinations of essential oils to create unique fragrances. For example, you can blend floral oils like lavender with citrus oils like lemon for a refreshing scent or pair vanilla with cinnamon for a warm and cozy aroma.

Using vanilla extract

To start, lay out your candle wick and place a glue dot on the metal circle attached to the end. Carefully place the circle at the centre bottom of your chosen container and hold it in place for a few seconds. Next, take your pan and place it on the stove to simmer. Put your soy wax flakes into the glass bowl and place it above the pan, allowing the wax to melt fully before removing it.

Now, it's time to add your vanilla extract. For a subtle scent, you can use vanilla extract, but be cautious as it may make the wax melt faster. If you're looking for a stronger fragrance, opt for vanilla essential oil or concentrated vanilla fragrance oil. Add your chosen vanilla scent to the bowl of melted wax and mix well.

Using chopsticks or pencils to keep the wick straight, carefully pour the scented wax into your container. Let the candle sit for 24 hours, ensuring the wick remains upright. Finally, trim the wick to your desired length, and your vanilla-scented candle is ready to light up your space!

Experimenting with different types of vanilla extracts or oils can create unique fragrances. You can try vanilla extract, vanilla essential oil, or even vanilla fragrance oils with variations like vanilla cream or honey and vanilla. The strength of the fragrance may vary depending on the type of wax and the quality of the vanilla product used. So, feel free to experiment and find the perfect scent for your candles!

Frequently asked questions