How to Make Wickless Candles

Did you know that not all candles need wicks to burn? Wickless candles give you another way to enjoy your favourite scents at home, whilst also creating a cosy and soothing atmosphere.

And, compared to traditional candles, they offer a safe alternative as there is no flame required.

Here we explain more about how to make wickless candles, why they’re so popular and what you can do to make them last a little longer.

Why use wickless candles?

If you have young children or pets, you may be worried about burning candles around them, as there is always the risk of them accidentally coming into contact with a naked flame.

This is not an issue with wickless candles, as there is no flame involved, making them safer to be around.

And because they rely on a different type of heat source, they usually last longer than traditional candles, allowing you to enjoy the fragrances for longer.

Are wickless candles the same as wax melts?

Wickless candles are essentially the same thing as wax melts, although the main difference is how you use them.

Whereas wickless candles rely on an element or LED lightbulb to melt the wax and release the fragrance, wax melts are placed onto wax burners and sit over a flame that softens the wax to emit the scent.

How to make wickless candles

Before you learn how to make a wickless candle, you’ll need to gather the following ingredients:

• 57g Coconut Oil (solid)
• 170g Beeswax
• 14g Essential oils of your choice

You’ll also need this equipment:

• Glass container
• Measuring cups
• Double boiler (or two different sized saucepans for melting wax)
• Spoon or stirring stick
• Digital scale
• Electric wax warmer (the heat source for the candle)
• Digital thermometer

Step-by-step instructions on how to make wickless candles

1. Heat the beeswax in the double boiler to a temperature of 85°C. Be careful not to overheat the wax as it could be burned or discoloured as a result. Beeswax can also become flammable if it becomes too hot.
2. Once the wax has melted, add the coconut oil, stirring until it melts.
3. Now you can add your chosen essential oils to the mixture. Continue to stir, as the addition of room temperature oils may cause the wax to harden a little. Oils with low flash points should be added at 70°C, whilst high flash point oils should be added at 85°C. You can also add any extra colouring at this stage too.
4. When you are satisfied that the oils have melted properly, carefully pour the mixture into a heat resistant container that will hold the candle. 
5. Leave the wax to harden, which should take around 24-48 hours. Once ready, simply turn on the wax warmer and enjoy the wonderful fragrance.

How can I make my wickless candles last longer?

To get more from your wickless candles, trying using the following tips:

• Avoid burning your wickless candles for extended periods, as the wax will likely melt too quickly, which could overpower the fragrance.
• Provided the heat source is maintained at a steady temperature, neither the wax nor the container should be damaged.
• Keep your candle in a cool, dry part of your home, away from direct heat sources and extended exposure to sunlight.

Our breakdown on how to make a wickless candle should set you up to get started right away.

If you have made candles or wax melts before, then this should be a piece of cake, and even if this is your first time, you’ll quickly pick up the hang of it.

And once the wax is hardened and cured, you can use your wickless candles anywhere you like around your home, filling the space with a refreshing and calming scent that everyone will love.