How long do wax melts last? Does a wax melt last longer than a traditional candle? And how often should you change them?
These are all common questions that people usually have when they first start using wax melts. In this post we will answer those questions and help you understand how to get the most from your wax melt.
Wax melts are a great alternative to candles because they provide the same ambiance without any of the mess or fuss.
Why Does A Wax Melt Lose Its Scent?
A wax melt will lose its scent over time. As it begins to melt the fragrance is slowly released. It will also smell stronger as it burns.
This is called ‘scent throw’ and the strength varies from fragrance to fragrance, and even the type of wax used.
There are two types of scent throw; “hot” throw and “cold” throw.
Hot throw refers to the fragrance that is released when a wax melt is burning. It’s stronger and lasts longer when it’s hot, but will then dissipate as it cools down.
Cold throw refers to the scent that is given off before or after the wax has melted.
Another point to consider is the type of wax warmer you’re using.
Do all types of wax melts last the same length of time? No. Wax melts come in a variety of different textures and scents, each with their own melt time.
The length of time a wax melt lasts depends on the type that you’re using, as well as how often they are used in your home.
How Long Do Wax Melts Last?
Generally, wax in an electric warmer will last from 8-12 hours.
Wax in a tea light warmer will last for up to 16 hours.
Wax portion size is an important factor and whether you’re melting it all in one go or if you’re melting for short periods.
The temperature also impacts how long a wax melt will last. The hotter your warmer gets the quicker it will release the scent, and the stronger it will be.
Wax melts don’t last as long as a burning candle but typically come in larger quantities and are cheaper than a candlewhich is why some people prefer them over traditional scented candles.
How Many Times Can I Use A Wax Melt?
You can use them multiple times before your scented wax melt begins to fade and you need to replace it with a new one. The more often you use it the more quickly the melted wax releases the scent – which will fade.
Types Wax Warmer
There are two main types of wax warmers. Electric wax warmer and tea light, which both vary in how quickly they release the scent.
Electric:
- Heats up faster than tea light, but can be more expensive to operate over time as it draws a higher wattage from your power source
- The smell is released slower and for longer than with tea lights
Tea Light:
- The wax will get hotter than an electric melter and the smell is released quicker, for a shorter period of time
- A tea light candle warmer is typically cheaper to operate over time because they use less wattage from your power source
- Can be used in more areas that an electric warmer can’t (such as a bedroom)
If you’re using a tea light warmer it’s best to go with an unscented 4 hour tea light instead of an 8 hour one. An 8 hour tea light burns at a higher temperature and creates a potential fire hazard.
Types Of Wax
The type of wax being used can also influence how long your wax melt lasts. There are several types of waxes that are used in a wax melt, such as soy, coconut, paraffin, and olive oil.
– Soy wax is biodegradable and what we use to make all our wax melts with. Soy wax is vegan friendly and have been proven to reduce toxins in the air from other types of candles but they’re less long lasting than paraffin waxes.
- Coconut oil is a natural, vegetable based product that burns clean and emits a light scent. Coconut wax is more expensive but longer lasting than paraffin waxes
- Olive oil waxes burn at high tempratures and produce no smoke or soot which makes it good for the environment. It also has an odorless smell when burning unlike some other types of wax
- Paraffin wax is derived from petroleum and contains toxins, such as lead, which can be released into the air when burned. We do not use paraffin wax in our melts
Where Can I Buy Wax Melts?
We offer a wide range of fragrances on our store. Each our homemade wax melts are made with love, and packaged with care – for both you and the enviroment.