Wax melts can be seen as the little sister of scented candles, giving you a creative and exciting new way to enjoy your favourite essential oil.

And when it comes to learning how to make your own wax melts, there isn’t too much ground to cover, so no matter how much experience you have you can quickly become a master wax melt maker. We’ve put everything you need to know about making wax melts right here, so feel free to dive in and get started.  

Wax Melts Frequently Asked Questions

Are wax melts the same as candles?

Although wax melts also rely on wax to release their fragrance, they do not work in the same way as candles. The major difference is that wax melts do not require a wick to melt the wax. Instead, they are placed above a small heat source in an oil or electric burner, which serves to melt the wax and release the fragrance into the air. They are generally seen as a safer alternative to candles and can be made in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, colours and scents.

What is the best wax for wax melts?

Much like making your own candles, there are a few different types of wax you can use to make wax melts. Soy wax is usually the most popular choice as it is natural, biodegradable and eco-friendly. Beeswax is another good natural choice, as is palm wax. Paraffin wax is often used in commercial wax melts, but is not natural and can release harmful toxins, so is perhaps best avoided.

How do I remove the wax from the mould?

Some moulds are more difficult to manipulate than others, which can make it harder to remove the wax once it has set and cured. A neat trick to use is to place the melt in the freezer for about an hour, which should make it easier to remove as wax shrinks in the cold, leaving enough room to wedge it out without causing any damage.

How long do wax melts last?

A wax melt can last anywhere between 3 hours and 3 days, depending on several factors. It depends where the melt is positioned, the surrounding temperature of the room and the type of wax used to make them. In terms of shelf life, most wax melts should last for over 12 months without losing their fragrance, provided they are stored correctly in a dry, dark, cool space and kept dust and dirt free when not in use.  

Can I increase the scent throw by adding more essential oils?

Adding more essential oils to your wax melts won’t always be enough to improve the scent throw. If you are burning a wax melt and the scent is not strong enough, it is probably because there was an imbalance created in the recipe, with either too much wax or too little fragrance used. It can also be affected by the quality of the oils you used, which is why it is always important to buy from a reputable seller that can guarantee a better-quality fragrance.  

The more often you make wax melts, the easier it gets, and you can start venturing into different mould shapes and extending the colour palette. Wax melts work just as well with fragrance oils as they do with essential oils, so feel free to change things up whenever you want. Just be sure to take the right safety precautions when handling your essential oils and hot melted wax and the rest should take care of itself.