The Perfect Time To Add Fragrance To Your Candle Wax

Adding fragrance to a candle is a great way to make it stand out. However, the timing of when to add fragrance oil to your wax is crucial to the candle's performance and the strength of its scent. Adding fragrance oil when your wax is too hot or too cold will negatively impact the fragrance. The wax needs to be fully melted, and fragrance should be added when the wax begins to cool. The ideal temperature for adding fragrance oil is between 155°-165° F, or 180-185° F for soy and paraffin wax, and 200-205ºF for palm wax. This allows the fragrance and wax to bind together effectively, resulting in a stronger scent throw.

The optimal temperature for binding fragrance oil and wax

Achieving the perfect fragrance throw in your candle requires adding the fragrance oil at the right temperature to ensure it binds properly with the wax. The optimal temperature range for binding fragrance oil and wax is between 155°F and 185°F.

If the wax is too cool when adding the fragrance oil, they won't bind properly, resulting in a poor scent throw or, in the worst case, fragrance seepage. Therefore, it is crucial to heat the wax to the optimal temperature range before adding the fragrance oil.

For soy wax, the ideal temperature range for adding fragrance oil is between 155°F and 165°F. This ensures that the wax is fluid enough to mix thoroughly without overheating. It is important to note that the wax should reach its maximum melting point before cooling it down to the optimal temperature range for adding the fragrance oil.

The type of wax used also affects the ideal temperature for adding fragrance oil. For example, palm wax requires a higher temperature range of 200°F to 205°F. Therefore, it is essential to know the melting point and ideal mixing temperature for the specific type of wax you are using.

Additionally, understanding the flashpoint of your fragrance oil is crucial. The flashpoint is the temperature at which a liquid evaporates, and adding the fragrance oil just below its flashpoint ensures that the scent remains intact during the mixing process. For flashpoints under 130°F, add the fragrance oil at or below 130°F. For flashpoints between 130°F and 180°F, add the oil slightly below the designated flashpoint.

The impact of stirring duration on the fragrance

The stirring duration, or how long you stir your candle wax after adding fragrance, can impact the final product's fragrance retention and scent throw. Here are some key points to consider:

Impact on Fragrance Retention

Stirring duration plays a crucial role in ensuring the fragrance oil is evenly distributed throughout the wax. Insufficient stirring may result in an uneven distribution, leading to pockets of stronger or weaker fragrance within the candle. On the other hand, over-stirring can cause the fragrance to start burning off, especially if the wax is still at a higher temperature. Thus, it is essential to strike a balance.

Temperature Considerations

The temperature of the wax during stirring also influences the fragrance retention. As the wax cools, the fragrance oil begins to bind with the wax. Stirring within the optimal temperature range, typically around 135°F to 185°F, helps ensure the fragrance is effectively trapped within the wax. Stirring below this range may hinder the binding process, while stirring at higher temperatures for too long can cause the fragrance to evaporate.

Scent Throw

The stirring duration can also impact the scent throw, which refers to how well the candle fills a room with its fragrance when burning. Insufficient stirring may result in an uneven distribution of fragrance oil, leading to a weaker scent throw. Over-stirring, especially at higher temperatures, can reduce the fragrance load, as the oils may burn off, resulting in a less fragrant candle.

Stirring Technique

Not only the duration but also the technique of stirring matters. Gentle and continuous stirring is recommended to ensure even distribution without causing the fragrance to burn off too quickly. Stirring constantly while heating the wax and then continuing to stir as it cools can help achieve optimal fragrance retention and scent throw.

Cure Time

Finally, the cure time, or the time allowed for the candle to rest after pouring into moulds, also impacts fragrance retention and scent throw. During curing, the fragrance molecules fully bind with the wax, enhancing the scent. Insufficient cure time may result in a weaker fragrance, while longer cure times, typically a minimum of 3-4 days and up to 2 weeks for soy wax, can lead to a stronger and more uniform scent.

The flash point of fragrance oil

The flash point of a fragrance oil is the temperature at which the oil becomes combustible if exposed to a spark or flame. This is important to know when making gel candles and for determining shipping methods. For example, certain gel waxes require fragrance oils with a flashpoint of 170°F or higher.

The flashpoint can also determine whether the oil can be delivered via air mail or must be shipped via ground. Fragrance oils with a flash point below 185°F can be safely poured into wax heated to around 185°F without causing ignition.

There are two schools of thought on whether the flash point impacts the scent throw of a candle. One group believes that adding fragrance oil to wax heated above the oil's flash point will degrade the fragrance, resulting in a weaker scent. The other group believes that fragrance oil can be added to wax at any temperature without negatively impacting the scent.

It is recommended to add fragrance oil to candle wax when the wax has cooled to between 155°F and 165°F. This ensures that the oil does not reach its flash point and potentially ignite.

The type of wax used

The type of wax you use will determine the ideal temperature at which to add your fragrance. The most popular types of candle wax include paraffin (also known as mineral wax), soy, beeswax, and coconut wax.

Paraffin Wax

Paraffin is the most widely used wax across candle brands. It can hold a high amount of fragrance and colour, and it comes in various melt points, making it suitable for making many different types of candles, from containers to pillars. It is also fairly inexpensive. However, it is not considered the most eco-friendly type of candle wax, as it is made from a byproduct of the oil industry. Paraffin candles also tend to burn more quickly and will create soot if not properly cared for. It is recommended to add fragrance to paraffin wax at 180-185°F.

Soy Wax

Soy wax is a mid-range option with a slow burn, making it a great value. It is considered more eco-friendly than paraffin wax. However, it is a byproduct of the soybean industry, and there are growing concerns over deforestation, fertilisers, and pesticides used in the process. It can also be relatively difficult to work with, as it is very temperamental with temperature and can shrink and 'frost' with white spots. Soy wax also doesn't hold quite as much fragrance as paraffin wax. It is recommended to add fragrance to soy wax at 155-165°F.

Beeswax

Beeswax is one of the oldest forms of candle wax and is considered more eco-friendly since it is derived from bees during the honey-making process. However, this also means that its production is not vegan. Beeswax has a very subtle, naturally sweet aroma, and it is often used in blends for container candles or to make unscented pillars. It is a harder, more solid wax, making it suitable for pillar and container candles. Beeswax also has a lower burning point, which helps it burn longer. However, beeswax doesn't hold or throw fragrance as long as some other types of wax. There is no specific recommended temperature for adding fragrance to beeswax, but it is important to note that beeswax typically begins to melt at around 130°F.

Coconut Wax

Coconut wax is a relative newcomer to the candle-making scene, but it is gaining popularity due to its natural material and smooth burning. Its softness and low melting point make it suitable to mix with other waxes, such as beeswax or soy, to create a wax blend. Coconut wax provides minimal soot or smoky residue while burning, and it has a smooth, creamy texture that is ideal for moulded candles. It is also biodegradable and another natural alternative. Coconut wax has the ability to hold onto scent well, throwing whichever essential oil or added fragrance it contains. Like beeswax, there is no specific recommended temperature for adding fragrance to coconut wax, but it typically begins to melt at around 130°F.

How to measure fragrance oil

Measuring fragrance oil for candles is a simple process, but it requires precision to ensure the best results. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to measure fragrance oil:

Step 1: Weigh the Wax

First, determine how much wax you will be using. This is important because the amount of fragrance oil you need depends on the weight of the wax. For example, if you are using 1 pound (16 ounces) of wax, you will need to calculate the amount of fragrance oil as a percentage of the total weight.

Step 2: Calculate the Fragrance Percentage

Different types of wax have different maximum fragrance loads. Most waxes can hold a maximum of 10% fragrance oil, which is approximately 1.6 ounces per pound of wax. However, you can also use a lower percentage, such as 6%, depending on your preference and the type of wax. Always check the product page of the wax you are using to find out its maximum fragrance percentage.

Step 3: Measure the Fragrance Oil

Using a candle and soap scale, weigh out the calculated amount of fragrance oil. Place a small glass or disposable cup on the scale and tare it to zero out the weight of the container. Then, slowly pour the fragrance oil into the cup until you reach the desired amount. Fragrance oil can react with some containers, so avoid using plastic and do not let the oil sit in a paper cup for too long.

Step 4: Heat the Wax

Melt your wax to the recommended temperature for adding fragrance oil, which is typically around 180°-185°F for soy and paraffin wax, and 200°-205°F for palm wax. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature throughout the process.

Step 5: Add the Fragrance Oil

Once your wax has reached the recommended temperature, remove it from the heat source. Slowly pour the measured fragrance oil into the melted wax. Stir gently and thoroughly to ensure the fragrance oil is fully incorporated into the wax. The amount of stirring time may vary, but it is important to stir long enough for the fragrance to bind with the wax.

Step 6: Pour and Cure

After mixing, you can pour your scented wax into the desired containers. Allow the candles to cure for at least a day or two, keeping them away from direct sunlight. Curing helps the fragrance oil and wax fully bind, resulting in a stronger scent throw.

Remember, it is important to test your candles before mass production to ensure optimal results. Always follow safety guidelines when working with hot wax and fragrance oils, and enjoy creating your unique scented candles!

Frequently asked questions