How to Pick the Right Scent

Truth be told, scents play an important role in our lives and we are often drawn to a particular type of scent. Our brain can make fascinating connections between scent, memory, and emotions. With this capability, it’s not surprising that candle fragrance is one of the most defining characteristics of a candle – and why so many of us enjoy filling our homes with scented candles!

Yet, all things considered, there are certain scents you will always find more appealing than others. And we’ve broken down how to find the best candle scents for you.

Step 1: Consider Your Space

The first to consider when choosing a candle scent is where you plan to use it. Take, for example, the size of the space you plan to use a candle in. You wouldn’t want to use a big overpowering scent in a small space such as a powder room, but in a large family room, the same scent might smell quite nice.

If you are wondering if it’s OKAY to have a different candle in every room, the answer is of course!

Step 2: Choose Your Candle Purpose

Scented candles undoubtedly are one of the fastest ways to create ambiance. They can introduce a warm glow into any space, but it’s the candle scent that often gives the room a heightened ambiance.

So consider your purpose when choosing a candle scent for ambiance. A zingy, citrus scent is perfect for energizing a workspace. While an exotic scent such as sandalwood can be stress relieving in the bath.

Step 3: Choose A Candle Scent

All scents can be broken into scent category types. What are the different types of scents? Fresh, Woody, Floral, and Exotic are the four main scent categories.

Once you’ve picked your space and purpose, the next thing to consider is the type of candle scent. These scent categories are a great way to uncover what the best candle scents for you are. Then you can look for candles that fall under that category!

Candle Scent Categories

FRESH

The candle scents in this category encompass all things bright and invigorating like sunshine and summer. Think fresh citrus, herbal, and clean aromas that speak cool, light, breezy, and fun. Each is vibrant and creates an uplifting, energizing atmosphere.

Fresh Scent Notes

Lime Sage Bergamot Grapefruit Plum Raspberry Lemon Eucalyptus Citronella Rosemary Tangerine Verbena Basil Cranberry Apple

WOODY

In this category, you’ll find all the earthy notes of coniferous, bitters, and moss found in woodlands and mountainsides. Earthy, smoky, and warm notes of cedar, sandalwood, and pine come to mind. Each gives way to feelings of grounding, courage, and coziness – like a big bear hug!

Woody Scent Notes

Patchouli Cedarwood Vetiver Juniper Sandalwood Black Spruce Balsam Fir Cypress Blue Spruce Oak Moss Palo Santo Pine Musk Birch Bark White Oak

FLORAL

This category is made up of scents from flowers. It is the most common of all the scent categories and has been used to mask odors, clean, and relax. Each in this category is soft, romantic, and calming to the mind.

Floral Scent Notes

Rose Jasmine Lavender Geranium Ylang-Ylang Gardenia Lilac Neroli Hibiscus Chamomile Lavandin Calendula Hydrangea Peony

EXOTIC

The exotic scent category is all about warmth, comfort, and indulgence. They are often the scents you want to eat – vanilla, cinnamon, and caramel. While others are resin notes that offer feelings of relaxation. All together each is heady, rich, and luxurious.

Exotic Scent Notes

Vanilla Chai Myrrh Amber Coffee Saffron Cinnamon Frankincense Honey Rosewood Anise Nutmeg Clove Balsam Ginger Caramel Tarragon Cardamom