Are you a candle lover, looking for ways to make your candles more personal and eco-friendly? Look no further than essential oils! By using these all-natural ingredients, you can create candles that are both beautiful and non-toxic.
With so many options out there, it might be tough to decide which oils are best for your DIY candles. But fear not. We’ve compiled a list of the 8 best essential oils for candles. By incorporating these oils into your candles, you’re not only able to create a unique gift, but you’re also able to enjoy the many benefits of aromatherapy. So, get ready to elevate your candle game and get creative with essential oils.
What Are Essential Oils?
Essential oils are concentrated aromatic liquids that are extracted from different parts of plants, such as flowers, leaves, and roots, and are free from synthetic additives that can harm your health. What’s amazing about them is that they can be used in a variety of ways, including DIY candles! Not only do they give off a great aroma, but certain oils can even offer aromatherapy benefits. With a few drops, you can add an extra touch of relaxation, invigoration, or whatever mood you are trying to create to your candles or diffusers. So next time you’re looking to add some natural scents to your home or self-care routine, definitely consider using some essential oils.
Fragrance Oils vs. Essential Oils
Have you ever wondered about the difference between fragrance oils and essential oils? Well, fragrance oils are created in a lab using chemicals that mimic the scent of plants. On the other hand, essential oils are made from pure plant extracts and rely entirely on natural substances. When it comes to choosing between the two, it ultimately depends on your preference. Some people enjoy the convenience and consistency of fragrance oils, while others prefer the purity and therapeutic benefits of essential oils. But one thing’s for sure – with essential oils, you’re breathing in all the goodness of nature.
Best Essential Oils for Candles
Lavender Essential Oil
Aroma: Fresh & Floral
One of the best essential oils for candles is Lavender Essential Oil. Not only does it have a calming and relaxing scent, but it has also been known to promote rest. It’s a great oil to add to your candle before bed to help you drift off into a peaceful slumber. It can uplift your mood and leave you feeling refreshed and recharged.
Peppermint Essential Oil
Aroma: Sharp & Minty
Peppermint Essential Oil not only has a refreshing scent that energizes and enlivens any space, but it also has a number of great benefits for your health. Peppermint essential oil has been shown to support respiratory health, making it a great choice for anyone looking for natural remedies to ease congestion and coughs. Additionally, its invigorating aroma can help clear your mind and boost your energy levels, making it the perfect addition to any home office or study space.
Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Aroma: Clean & Herbaceous
Eucalyptus Essential Oil has a unique, invigorating scent that’ll breathe new life into your candle creations. It’s known for its respiratory benefits – so if you’re prone to allergies or have a stuffy nose, this could be just the thing to help you breathe a little easier. Plus, the energizing properties of eucalyptus are sure to give your mood a boost whenever you light up your candle.
Lemon Essential Oil
Aroma: Sweet & Citrusy
If you’re looking for a bright and refreshing option, Lemon Essential Oil is a great option. It smell fantastic and eases seasonal discomfort for those pesky allergies. Its uplifting properties can help boost your mood on even the gloomiest days.
Lemongrass Essential Oil
Aroma: Earthy & Citrusy
If you’re looking to give your candles some extra oomph, you can’t go wrong with the refreshing scent of Lemongrass Essential Oil. Not only does it add a zesty kick to any candle, but it also has some other handy benefits. It’s an excellent deodorizer, which means it can help neutralize unpleasant smells in your home and leave it smelling fresh and clean. And if you’re someone who’s constantly battling pesky insects, you’ll be happy to know that Lemongrass Essential Oil is a natural insect deterrent.
Cedarwood Essential Oil
Aroma: Dry & Woody
Not only does Cedarwood Essential Oil promote rest and centering, but it also acts as a natural insect repellent – which is perfect for an outdoor gathering or a cozy night in. In addition, it is known to support respiration, which can come in handy during cold and flu season.
Tea Tree Essential Oil
Aroma: Medicinal & Herbaceous
When it comes to the best essential oils to add to your candle-making kit, Tea Tree Essential Oil is also a must-try. It’s great for supporting healthy respiratory function and has a crisp, refreshing aroma that’s sure to invigorate your senses.
Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil
Aroma: Sweet & Floral
If you’re looking for something that’ll brighten up your day, Ylang-Ylang Essential Oil is an excellent choice. Its properties are uplifting and energizing and has been known to support romantic feelings – perfect for a cozy night in with your special person! It’s also known for helping to center the mind and ease stress.
Other Tools for Candle Making
Candle-making is a therapeutic and creative hobby, and having the right tools can make all the difference in your candle-making experience. Here are some basic essentials to get you started.
- Candle Wax (Soy Wax): as the candle base
- Candle Wicks (Cotton Wicks, Braided Wicks): a way for the candle to burn
- Centring Tool: to center the wick; you can also use sticks
- Container or Mold: to hold the candle wax together
- Double Boiler or Melting Pot: to melt the wax
- Essential Oils: to add scent and aromatherapy benefits
- Measuring Cup/Scale: to measure the ingredients
- Mica Powder: to add color to the candle
- Scissors: to trim the wick
- Stirring Implement: to mix the ingredients together
- Thermometer: to monitor the temperature of the wax
Some Candle-Making Tips
- Leave your candle to cure for at least 24 to 48 hours.
- Clean up wax spills right away. Melted wax near a burner may ignite.
- Always work in a well-ventilated area.
- Keep and collect candle scraps to reuse!
- Keep decorative candle items away from the flame.
- Never leave a lighted candle unattended!
- Don’t be afraid to experiment- play with the type of wax, essential oil combination, and some candle styles. Candle-making is so much fun!!