The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Candle

Candles are more than just wax and wicks—they’re a way to bring warmth, personality, and even memories into your home. Whether you’re buying for yourself or as a gift, there are many factors to consider when selecting the perfect candle. Here are ten things to consider when buying candles; some of the key aspects to keep in mind so you can find the ideal one for your space or occasion.

 

 

1. Appearance & Design: The First Impression Matters

When you buy a candle, its appearance is often the first thing that catches your eye. The colour, shape, and overall design should complement your home décor or fit the vibe you’re aiming to achieve. For instance, neutral tones or minimalist designs work beautifully in modern spaces, while bold colours can make a statement in eclectic rooms.

Consider how the candle will look when it’s not burning, too. Is it the centrepiece on your dining table, like our Luxe Bowl white ceramic candle, or does it accent a shelf? If you’re gifting a candle, attractive or classy packaging is a bonus—it adds that special touch before the recipient even opens it.

 

2. Scent: Setting the Mood

The fragrance of a candle can transform a space, evoke memories, or create a specific mood. Are you drawn to fresh, clean scents like linen or citrus? Or perhaps warm, cosy options like vanilla or sandalwood? Our At the Beach fragrance reminds me of family trips to be beach as a child, for example. Strong scents might be ideal for large spaces, but softer ones work best in smaller or shared areas.

Seasonality also plays a role. Winter might call for comforting notes of cinnamon or pine, while spring and summer lean towards floral and fruity fragrances. Don’t forget to consider the quality of the fragrance—commercial fragrance oils from reputable fragrance houses, these days are made to strict standards and offer rich and authentic scents.

 

 

3. Material: What’s in Your Candle?

Not all candles are created equal, especially when it comes to the wax. Many buyers today prefer soy or beeswax candles over paraffin. Coconut wax is another luxurious option for those seeking a sustainable and slow-burning choice. We use a superior blend of coconut and soy wax we’ve found to hold and produce beautiful fragrances, whether they’re lit or still in the box.

If sustainability and health matter to you, look for candle fragrances free from phthalates or parabens.  These days, most quality fragrance suppliers do not include these ingredients in their formulations. Vegan or cruelty-free candles are a big draw for ethically conscious buyers.

It is important to note that lead is no longer used in wicks supplied in Australia and the USA, as these have been banned since 2002.

https://www.productsafety.gov.au/business/find-banned-products/candles-with-lead-wicks-ban

https://www.cpsc.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/2003/CPSC-Bans-Candles-With-Lead-Cored-Wicks

 

4. Performance: How Well Does It Burn?

A candle’s performance can make or break the experience. Look for candles with a long burn time (relative to the size of the vessel) to get the most value from your purchase. An evenly melting wax pool not only ensures the full use of the candle, but also prevents the dreaded “tunnelling.”

Tunnelling primarily happens when a wick is too small for the width of the candle vessel, or when a candle is extinguished before a full melt pool has formed. The melt pool is the pool of liquid wax at the top of a lit candle. When burning a candle, ensure the melt pool extends all the way to the side of the vessel to reduce the risk of tunnelling, especially on the first burn. Candles have a ‘wax memory’, which means if you extinguish the candle before the melt pool is fully formed, the candle will likely only burn to that point in the future, potentially wasting a lot of wax – and money.

Wooden wicks are increasingly popular for their unique crackling sound, but traditional cotton wicks often provide a more consistent burn. Clean-burning candles that minimise soot or smoke are essential, especially for indoor use.

I’ve often been asked to make candles with wooden wicks, and I choose not to, because they’re not as reliable as cotton wicks. Being that they’re made from wood, the quality of the wood, the consistency of the grain, and other factors means we cannot guarantee the wicks will burn evenly, and will not extinguish themselves early. I’d just rather not take the risk to sell a potentially under-performing candle.

 

 

5. Purpose: Why Are You Buying It?

Candles serve many purposes beyond just lighting a room. Are you buying one to help you relax after a long day? Opt for soothing scents like lavender or eucalyptus, or our Black Tea and Bergamot. For a celebratory event, you might choose something more vibrant and festive, like our Happy Hour, which is very fruity.

Gifting candles is another common purpose. They’re versatile, thoughtful, and universally appreciated, especially when they come beautifully packaged. Think about the recipient’s preferences and lifestyle to pick something that will feel personal and special.

It may seem a little odd, but if someone is buying a candle from me, as a gift, I ask them to describe person receiving the gift. What colours are in their house? Do they wear bright, patterned clothes? What perfume do they wear? Is their house full of nick-nacks, or is it more modern and ‘clean’? Surprisingly, these factors can help to narrow down the fragrances someone would like in a candle. 

Someone who wears bright clothes might prefer a fruity or floral fragrance. Someone who has a minimalistic style decor might opt for a traditional vanilla. Someone who wears perfume might like a dupe of that perfume in a candle. If you take a little time to think about the receiver, you can narrow down what they might like without ever having to ask. The same applies when choosing for yourself!

 

 

6. Value for Money: Quality vs Cost

Candles range from budget-friendly to high-end luxury, and it’s important to find the right balance between quality and price. A higher price tag often reflects premium materials, longer burn times, and unique designs.

That said, it’s always worth considering the burn time relative to the price. A small candle with a 10-hour burn time might not be as cost-effective as a larger one that lasts 50 hours, even if it’s more expensive upfront.

Additionally, you cannot simply do a side by side comparison of two similar looking candles and tell which one is ‘better value’. One may be $50 and the other $25. Cheaper doesn’t necessarily mean better value, and more expensive doesn’t mean you’re being ripped off.  You need to understand the quality and type of the ingredients, and that good candle making is a craft.

 

7. Brand Values: Support What Matters to You

Many buyers today want their purchases to align with their values. Does the brand prioritise sustainability? Are their candles handmade or locally produced? Supporting small businesses is often more rewarding, as your purchase directly impacts the creators behind the product, and keeps more money within the local community.

Reputation matters, too. Look for reviews and testimonials that speak to the quality of the candles and the customer service. A brand with a strong commitment to eco-friendliness, can be an excellent choice if you’re mindful of your environmental footprint.

 

 

8. Safety: Burn With Confidence

Safety is a crucial consideration, especially in homes with children or pets. Opt for candles made from quality materials, including strong glass or ceramics, with stable designs that are less likely to tip over. Some candles in unconventional vessels may look stunning, but become dangerous when lit.

Additionally, consider features like self-extinguishing wicks or candles with lids to safely contain it when not in use. Always place your candle on a heat-resistant surface and never leave it unattended while burning.

A well-made candle will extinguish itself while there is still a small amount of wax at the bottom of the vessel. Part of the reason for this is to ensure the lit flame is not heating naked glass, which can lead to cracks and explosions. And please, please, do not go to bed while you have a candle still burning!

 

9. Extras: What Else Do You Get?

Some candles go the extra mile with thoughtful details. Reusable containers, for example, are a popular feature—once the wax is finished, the vessel can serve as a decorative item, plant pot, or storage container. We encourage our customers to clean out the left over wax from a fully used candle, and re-use the vessel where possible.

Customisation is another appealing option. Personalised labels or custom fragrance blends make candles feel unique, whether you’re buying for yourself or as a gift. Look out for bundles or sets, too—they’re often a great way to try multiple scents or stock up for gifting.

 

10. Seasonal Appeal: Embrace the Moment

Candles are deeply tied to the seasons and holidays. A festive scent like spiced apple or fir can make your home feel instantly Christmassy, while a light, floral fragrance might remind you of springtime blooms.

Seasonal candles are also excellent gifts, as they tap into the mood of the moment. Pair them with holiday decorations or seasonal treats for a thoughtful touch.

Next Valentines Day or Mothers Day, instead of buying mum or your partner the usual bouquet of flowers, consider giving a candle so the memory of the day lasts longer. A hamper that includes a candle is even better, and shows you’ve really thought about what your mum might like most.

 

 

A Bonus Point to Consider

Emotional Connection: A Candle That Speaks to You

Some candles resonate with us because they evoke a specific memory or feeling. Maybe a particular scent reminds you of a holiday, or it simply makes you feel calm and happy. Candles can create an emotional connection that goes far beyond their physical form.

By choosing candles that reflect your personality or mood, you’re adding a little extra meaning to your purchase. They’re not just a product—they’re an experience.

Buying a candle is about more than just picking something that smells nice. From the appearance and material to the purpose and performance, every detail can enhance the experience. Whether you’re indulging yourself or picking the perfect gift, taking the time to consider these factors ensures your choice will delight you (or the lucky recipient) every time it’s lit.

We hope this guide has helped you feel more confident about your next candle purchase, and you’ve learned the importance of what to consider when buying candles. If you’re ready to explore beautifully designed, high-quality candles, take a look at our collection. Let us help you find a candle that truly suits your style, needs, and values. Shop our range now.

 

Find out here what ‘triple scented’ means when it comes to candles.