Why Some Candles Smell Stronger Than Others

Have you ever lit a candle only to find that its fragrance barely lingers, while another fills the whole room within minutes? It's a common question: why do some candles smell stronger than others? The answer lies in a mix of ingredients, design, and how you use your candle. Here's a guide to understanding candle scent strength - and how to make the most of your favourites.

What Affects a Candle's Scent Strength?

Wax Type Matters

Different waxes hold and release fragrance in unique ways. Paraffin wax often gives a bold, immediate scent, but it's not a sustainable option. Natural waxes such as soy, rapeseed, or coconut burn cleaner and longer, with a more gradual fragrance release. This slower diffusion can feel softer but often lasts longer throughout the burn. 

Fragrance Load

The "fragrance load" refers to the percentage of scent blended into the wax. A higher load usually means a stronger throw - but there's a limit. Too much fragrance oil can affect the way the candle burns, leading to smoke, sooting, or tunneling. A well-formulated candle balances a generous fragrance load with clean, safe burning.

Wick Size and Type

The wick is the engine of a candle. If it's too small, the wax won't melt evenly, and fragrance won't release properly. Too large, and the candle may burn too hot, causing smoke. Even wick materials matter: wood wicks create a broad melt pool and crackle, while cotton wicks give a steady, classic burn.

Vessel Size and Shape

A wide, shallow container usually creates a stronger scent throw because it allows a larger surface area of melted wax. Narrow or tall jars take longer to release fragrance into the room. The vessel doesn't just influence looks - it directly affects performance. 

Room Size and Airflow

A small candle will struggle to fill a large, open space. Likewise, draughts or fans can disperse scent too quickly, reducing its intensity. Always consider where you place your candle for the best experience.

Cold Throw vs. Hot Throw

You may have noticed that some candles smell wonderful in the jar but not as strong when lit - or the other way around.

• Cold throw: the fragrance you smell when the candle is unlit.
• Hot throw: the fragrance released into the air while burning.

Both depend on the wax, fragrance blend, and how the candle was crafted. A high-quality candle will balance both.

How Long Should You Burn a Candle?

Burn time isn't just about making your candle last - it affects fragrance and safety too. 

• First burn: allow the wax pool to reach the edges of the vessel before extinguishing. This helps prevent tunneling and ensures an even scent throw.
• Ideal burn length: 2 to 4 hours at a time. This gives the candle enough time to create a full melt pool without overheating.
• Avoid overburning: burning too long can cause sooting, wick mushrooming, and weakened fragrance over time.

Think of it as a rhythm: light your candle long enough to enjoy it, then rest it for next time.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Candle

• Trim the wick to about 5mm before lighting.
• Keep candles away from draughts to avoid uneven burning.
• Match the candle size to your space - use larger candles or more than one for open-plan rooms.
• Use a snuffer to extinguish rather than blowing, which can cause smoke.

These simple habits protect both your candle and your air quality.

Choosing Stronger Candles

If you're after a stronger fragrance, look for:

• Natural wax candles made with a balanced fragrance load.
• Containers that allow a broad melt pool.
• Makers who disclose their ingredients and design with both performance and safety in mind.

At Ralph's Orchard, we blend vegan, eco-conscious wax with carefully chosen fragrances that perform well both hot and cold. Popular strong-scented favourites include Vintage Bookshop, Zen, and Amber & Rock Salt - all designed to bring a lasting fragrance into your home without compromise. 

Final Thoughts

The strength of a candle's fragrance isn't a mystery - it's a blend of wax, wick, vessel, fragrance load, and how you burn it. By choosing well-crafted candles and caring for them properly, you'll enjoy a more rewarding, longer-lasting scent experience every time.

Curious to find your ideal fragrance? Explore our Scent Guide or browse our best-selling candles to discover scents that linger beautifully.