Using Scented Candles To The Best Decorative Effect

Scented candles can give  a cheery, welcoming atmosphere in any area of your home. And do not worry if you would rather have unscented candles, you can nonetheless coordinate the hue of the candles to compliment with the rest of your decorative approach. Scented candles give any space a enjoyable  scent, even when they are lying unused, although, needless to say, the scent greater  when the candle is lit. Many of us actually decide to use aromatic  candles as a means of decoration, while others prefer to light them for aromatherapy, or simply since they love  their scent .  A number of  luxury candle making companies  put a great deal of attention and effort towards the appearance of their products, but to view  them simply as a kind of ornament is to miss the main point about these candles, namely their divine   scent . Candles can be used to create a number  of simple elegant decorative effects. You can use scented candles of varying sizes to come up with  a delightful arrangement on your dining table, coffee table or mantelpiece. If you have a number of candles, you can set them up by height. Put the highest in the middle, placing the others around it. You can use any shape of candle you like, mixing themtogether, although people in the main prefer to have a selection ofcandles of different sizes but the same shape. You can also choose to have them all the same colour or in different colours. There are many different types of candle holders from which to choose, but plates are the most popular at the moment. Using a plate allows you to put together several candles, creating an elegant effect. If you use a plate, you can also decorate the candles with floral arrangements. You can light candles to create a certain atmosphere, but if they are scented, the atmosphere will be even more special. Aromatherapy candles have healing properties depending on the fragrance you choose. Scented candles also help to create a romantic atmosphere. When picking  scented candles, it is better  to purchase  the ones that are seal-packed, as is te case with companies like True Grace candles and Yankee candles. Obviously, candles which have not been wrapped properly  will lose their fragrance more quickly . You should also bear in mind what type of wax candles are made of. If you are looking for  aromatic  candles which burn well, then you should go for the  ones made of soya wax or beeswax, as both these types of wax give a better fragrance throw - that is, they diffuse their perfume  more efficiently - than alternative  types of wax, such as  paraffin wax. Scented  candles made  from soya wax or beeswax, combined  with essential aromatic  oils may well cost a little more  than standard paraffin wax candles which use artificial  fragrances , but they are an altogether superior product and will last much longer, making them good value for money at the end of the day.





The author is owner of The Scented Candle Store which supplies a range of luxury home fragrances including scented candles by companies such as Yankee candles

How To Give Your Bathroom A Vintage Makeover

Are you fed up of the old-fashioned appearance of


your bathroom? Well, instead of changing everything , why don´t you keep


some of the decorative touches you already have and add some well-chosen items to create


a "vintage” look, which is so popular these days A daring,


but at the same time very popular, idea is mixing black and white. A simple and


cheap way to give the walls a new look would be to leave the original


white tiles and paint one or two walls black. However, take care here:


make sure the room receives enough  natural light, failing which you might end


up with a claustrophobic effect. One way of ensuring  this does not happen is to


paint all doors and window frames white – as well as the ceiling if possible -  to help create a greater sense of space.









Another interesting idea for the tiling in your


bathroom is to replace the tiles you have with reclaimed  vintage tiles. These


can be found from architectural salvage merchants and are often  decorated in a


style which you just don’t find with modern tiles. Their lived-in, slightly


tatty look will work perfectly if you are trying  to create a vintage style,


shabby chic effect. For best results use these tiles on the floor and take the


colour scheme from the tiles as your cue for the rest of the room. For example


if your reclaimed vintage floor tiles are decorated in yellow and blue, use


these same colours on the walls. You could paint the walls yellow, picking out


any details, such as a dado rail or cornice, in blue. The effect when done properly


is stunning and is a design approach which has been used to great effect when


restoring a large number of older properties and hotels in the South of France


and in Italy.




















Shower screens are undoubtedly very practical and


can be decorative , but, let's just think about it for a moment they are not very appropriate if you want to create a vintage style bathroom. A perspex shower screen with


stainless steel attachments just will not look the part in your period style


bathroom.  Instead, the best thing to do is


to buy a striking bath or shower curtain. True,they may not keep the water away as wellas a shower screen, they are more in tune with the vintage look you are


trying to accomplish. Fortunately, you can find a huge choice of shower curtains


in any well-known department store and you will have no trouble finding the


bestone to finish off your 'new' vintage bathroom. An easy way to make this


effect more attractive is to hang another curtain, perhaps in heavy cotton or


linen over the shower curtain.  This


heavier curtain keeps the flimsier plastic shower curtain in place, but as it


does not come into contact with the water, it stays dry. Naturally this


outer curtain can be made in a material and pattern of your choosing, so that


you can be certain it is appropriate to your overall design approach for the


bathroom.









The questionof accessories for your vintage-style


bathroom can have a significant bearing on the final result of your decorative work If you are looking for a new bathroom cabinet or maybea new


mirror, you could always browse around a few antique shops to find something


suitable and repaint in a colour which matches with the rest of the decor.


Flowers, either fresh or dried, will look great in a beautifulvase. Glass or


crystal are attractiveand work well in periodsurroundings.  Mirrors and prints can also be attractive,


but, again, pickframes that will blend in withyour overall design theme. Finally,


decorative scented candles will help give your bathroom a relaxed elegant


appeal.Go for traditional design and styles such as those made y companies like True Grace candles and Yankee candles for best results.



























The author is owner of The Scented Candle Store which specialises in home fragrances including scented candles by companies such as Yankee candles

Tips On Decorating A Dingy Basement Using Scented Candles And More

Irrespective of how well designed


your home may be, there are bound to be a few areas, some nooks and crannies which do not seem


to receive as much natural dayulight as


others. Washrooms and basements are the the rooms


which spring readily to mind . So what what should you do to light up a room in our home that doesn't have


any windows, to eradicate the


impression of confinement? Surprisingly enough it is actually


simpler than you may have


imagined . The following tips are


perfect for those areas where there is little or no natural daylight,


such as the basement or indeed any other place in the home that is dark


and spartan. The first - and perhaps most obvious - idea is to decorate


the area in question with rich, vibrant colours. Hang brightly coloured wallpaper or  paint


walls and other surfaces in vibrant, light colours to come up with a fresh look and to create an impression of airiness, of a larger


space. The walls, for instance ,


could be painted in a light colour such as cream -  other colours such as shades of yellow, light red or


orange can also be used , though in


this case you need to show a little


disipline , just in case the


final look is a little gaudy. The same applies to


any furniture that you choose for these areas: warm colours would be


suitable for sofas and chairs.


Vibrantly coloured cushions and throws will help


open up even the most confined of rooms . By all


means, choose one or two darker coloured pieces


in you are looking to generate contrast. The idea is that they


contrast with the warm colours that dominate most of the room. In any restricted space


your choice of lighting is also vital .


Get this correct and it can make a massive


difference to the look of your


room. The opposite is also true, so it is worth devoting some time and


attention to. Pick the most suitable form of lighting. Most basements have low ceilings,


and therefore it is not ideal to use


hanging lamps, as there is simply not enough headroom for them to work


well . You will be


left with pools of light reflected low against the walls, which will


create a claustrophobic effect, exactly what you are trying to avoid. A


good alternative would be to use wall fittings,


table lamps or even floorlamps or uplighters. Alternatively,  why not try some scented candles to give that extra welcoming touch? Scented candles from companies


like True Grace candles


or Yankee


candles


are attractive enough to


compliment any decorative effect you wish to achieve. Not


only will they give your basement a subtle diffused light but they will


also make it smell beautiful which can


also be a problem in basement areas.  Do not be tempted to treat the


basement any differently   from remaining parts of your home, taking the same


care and attention to its decor as you would do with the other parts of your home. After all, if you show a bit of flair   you can transform a plain, functional basement used previously for little more than storage, into an appealing additional room in your home.



The author is owner of The Scented Candle Store where you will find a wide range of home fragrances, including scented candles, by makes such as Yankee candles

How To Use Aromatherapy Scented Candles At Home

Lighting aromatherapy fragrant candles made with natural essential oils


is a great way to lend fragrance to a room. But that is not all they


have to offer . Not only do aromatherapy candles smell nice , but they


can also have therapeutic effects on the body and mind, essentially


allowing us to indulge in, and receive at least some of the benefits


of, aromatherapy, without the need to consult a therapist. Essential


oils are extracted from certain herbs and aromatherapists use them to


improve emotional and physical wellbeing . When a few drops of the


essence of a particular plant are added to a candle,


its powerful aroma molecules are diffused into the surrounding air as


the wax melts . When inhaled , the fragrance can help soothe and revive


our body. Because essential oils are expensive , these type of candles


tend to be made by luxury brands such as English candle makers True Grace or the American company Yankee candles.


Aromatherapy candles can be scented with oils of different types of


plants . Essential oils of aromatherapy can be extracted from different


parts of plants, flowers, fruits, leaves and bark. As well as  having a


unique natural fragrance, they have many different healing qualities.


For example, lavender is known for its relaxing properties . When added


to scented candles it can create a peaceful and soothing atmosphere . The rich


scent of sandalwood can help ease feelings of anxiety and stress. To


obtain the maximum benefits of aromatherapy, candles should be made


from natural ingredients that do not release toxins as they burn.


Aromatherapy soya wax candles are a popular choice, as these are


considered better for the environment than petroleum based candles, the


most commonly known of which is the paraffin wax candle. Paraffin wax


can be extremely refined but most paraffin wax candles are not subject


to this process meaning that they emit quite a


lot of dirt and soot when they are lit, which is not really conducive


to the healing effects you are trying to achieve with aromarherapy


candles. You should always the labels when purchasing a scented


candle to ensure that it does not contain any artificial fragrances


or artificial colouring. If you decide to buy scented candles for aromatherapy purposes it is always best to go for candles made by a company whose reputation for quality you can trust. We have already mentioned True Grace candles and Yankee candles but there are a number of other luxury candle companies who make their products with the finest quality soy or vegetable waxes, combined with natural essential oils,. Any of these brands will be a worthwhile investment.  Using scented candles at home is a simple but


effective way to create a particular mood , creating a peaceful and


harmonious atmosphere. Products such as candles, oil burners or other


types of aromatherapy diffusers can make inexpensive gifts and offer a


natural alternative to chemical air fresheners or those horrible foul


smelling plug ins which are so common these days. Having aromatherapy


candles at home is a quick and easy way to improve the atmosphere in a


room and create a peaceful space to relax at the end of a busy day.












The author is owner of The Scented Candle Store, supplying a wide range of scented candles, including the famous Yankee candles

Using Scented Candles To Decorate A Traditional Home

Modern homes are very convenient . They are easy and inexpensive to heat and


generally do not require a great deal by way of maintenance and decoration.


Unfortunately, however, they do tend to lack character . On the other hand, if


you are looking for a home full of character you could do no better than a grand


Victorian or Edwardian mansion. The downside with these homes is that they


require regular maintenance and decoration to keep them looking their best .


However, if this is the type of home you have always wanted, do not be put off .


Here are a few simple, inexpensive ways to keep a traditional home looking


good:






Wall panels really add a sense of grandeur to a traditional home and will


leave most visitors suitably impressed . If you are handy with DIY , you can


create this look yourself with lay-on timber panels and picture rails, which you


can paint a colour of your choosing . If you are not the most confident when it


comes to these things, then this is a job which is probably best left to the


professionals. It is better to spend a few extra pounds getting the job done


correctly than botching things up in an attempt to save a little money.






Making some changes to the light fittings can make a noticeable difference to the way an older home


looks and feels. Try to pick light fittings in keeping with the period style.


A pair of lantern style lamps is ideal to give an air of timeless elegance as well a


great source of illumination. Fitting a dimmer switch is a simple way to alter


the mood without having to spend a lot of money . Another stylish yet elegant way of adding


subtle light to a period home is by using candles or even scented candles. Why not look out for


simple, stylish jar candles by companies like True Grace candles


or Yankee


candles. They come in elegant glass jars which will blend in with the look


and style of any room. For example candles from the True Grace "Village"


collection are to be found in beautiful etched glass jars which are perfectly in


tune with traditional decor.






Older homes always look good with the addition of some original artwork. In a


a newly built home home, a couple of pictures is really the maximum that the space will


allow before things start to look cluttered, but the larger


dimensions of more traditional properties are capable of showing off more paintings well .


From a practical point of view, when it comes to hanging multiple pieces of art,


map them out on the floor first to get a feel for the shape and spacing.


Pictures work best at eye level, so try to keep this in mind when planning your


layout. Try to create a rectangular shape in a rectangular space or square


within a square area of wall. That way you will reinforce the shape of the


room.





The author is owner of The Scented Candle Store, supplying a wide range of home fragrances, including True Grace candles and Yankee candles

Tips On Decorating The Ideal Bathroom

The smallest room in the house, otherwise known as the bathroom might be, first and foremost, a functional room but that does not necessarily signify that you cannot pursue a   really imaginitive approach when considering the way in which you want to lay out this part of your home. When it comes to the bathroom you should really abandon any plans you had for a clinial, minimalist design and opt for a comfotable, elegant yet stylish feel. There are a whole host of ideas to help you come up with  an opulent, glamorous bathroom, including, but not restricted to,  the liberal use of polished brass, nickel effects and bold chintz fabrics with contrasting rich, deep accent colours - to name but a few! Our Bathroom is the one area of the home where we can devote some real private time to ourself, to pamper ourselves and as part of this approach, glamorous designs and accessories help give the bathroom a feeling of decadence .



When you think about it you should fit out your bathroom  with the same thoughts in mind as you would have with your bedroom. After all, both rooms are all about peace and quiet, that little bit of sanctuary and relaxation after a gruelling, yet satisfying days retail therapy. Soft rugs and throws, fluffy towels, beautiful lighting, statement mirrors and prints and scented candles should be part of any carefully planned out design in the bathroom. For a unique sense of style you could also introduce free-standing furniture, space permitting in the form armoires, dressers or chest of drawers for a range of stylish storage solutions, in place of a drab bathroom cabinet in plastic or gloss white. If the look you are seeking to create a romantic, feminine space then French style, shabby-chic furniture will work perfectly, while mirrored furniture afforda more glamorous, modern look. In the event that your home is blessed with a larger than average bathroom, then armchairs or benches lend an air of real indulgence, while oversized mirrors are perfect for providing a focal point for any bathroom particularly if they have an ornate frame. Not only do they look good, they are functional too.



When it comes to decorating the wall or floor surfaces, luxurious ceramic tiles are perhaps the ideal solution. Patterned tiles are extremely popular these days, as are antique or reclaimed tiles which are perfect for creating a relaxed country-style look. Take your cue from the patterns and colours on antique tiles and use matching or complimentary colours to paint other surfaces.



And then there are the those little extra decorative items which can really make your bathroom special and finish everything off perfectly. You might be tempted to go for an oversized vase brimful of fresh or dried flowers, a display of picture frames or maybe an selection of your favourite bath and body products. Another perfect accessory for most bathrooms is a selection of scented candles . Luxurious scented candles by brands like True Grace candles or Yankee candles can be placed around the room, their bright colours and ornate designs perfectly suited to the decor of the bathroom. But don't be tempted to regard them as just ornaments. On the contrary, only by lighting them can you enjoy them to the maximum. Can you think of something more exotic than relaxing in a hot bath in your beautifully decorated bathroom, breathing in the sweet scent of your favourite candles?






The author is owner of the Scented Candle Store where you will find a range of luxurious home fragrances including luxury scented candles by companies such as Yankee candles

Making The Most Of Your Decor In A Small Home

Homes come in a variety of different sizes , including simple studio flats


with a pull down bed, to enormous Victorian mansions. Irrespective the size or style


of your home, we usually want it to feel as l ight and open as possible, with the impression of a reral sense of space. This is not a problem if you are lucky enough to own


a massive Victorian mansion but when you own a smaller flat or house it is important


to come up with some good ideas to make the best use of the restricted space you have at your disposal.









One idea which is worth using when dealing with a cramped,


confined space is to think of a yacht or even a jet, in which everything is


super-stylish, yet  compact and


functional, and then apply those ideas to your own project.









In a confined space a minimalist design and monochrome colour


palette, often with the addition of a bold accent colour, helps give an air of calm and order. Anything which reflects light comes in handy,


so mirrors and glass - as well as mirrored furniture - can be an asset in


smaller spaces. You should try to find multifunctional pieces of furniture,


such as stacking chairs or coffee tables which will open up space when they are


not in use, as well chests or boxes which can serve as both a side table or


coffee table as well as a storage solution all rolled into one. Having said


that, it is much better to pick a few pieces of full-size furniture, rather


than filling your living space up with doll’s house pieces.









When you are considering lighting, you should endeavour to avoid overhead lights as


they are a little too strong.  Recessed


lights or spotlights can most times fit the bill perfectly, as they let you to direct


your choice of light source exactly where you want it.  Subtle lighting either in the form of wall or


table lamps,  or even scented candles are


work well . Try some of the luxury candles you can find from companies like True


Grace candles or Yankee candles.









When you are trying to decide on the the shades you would like to employ when decorating the


smaller home, the main thing to consider is to avoid gloomy shades, as they


sometimes appear to draw the walls in. It is more advisable to keep to light neutral


shades to help distribute the light all over your living space and open the area up.


You should paint ceilings in a similar colour so as to give the appearance of a considerably greater areaAnother straightforward,


almost obvious,  tip for decorating a


tight space is to to use a choice of blinds such as louvre or vertical, on the windows, in place of curtains, because this will help free up some much needed room on the floor.  And if you find the overall effect is still a


little cramped you could always remove doors in public areas, which again will


give the illusion of a greater flow of space around your home. So there you


have it – several easy-to-implement tips to maximise the appearance of light


and space in the smaller home, without costing the earth.,






























The author is owner of The Scented Candle Store where you will find a range of luxury home fragrances including Yankee candles and True Grace candles.

Indoor Air Quality And How To Improve It

We all love our homes to look clean and tidy and


as a result we devote many hours cleaning them, even after coming home after a


long day at work  or at the weekend. This pride in our homes  is reflected in the


fact that professional maid services have never been more popular . But one


aspect of cleaning we probably do not give much thought to is how clean the air


in our home is. And does it really matter  anyway? Indoor air quality matters


because poor indoor air quality has been cited as a cause of a number of ailments,


including recurring unexplained headaches, allergic reactions and more serious


respiratory complaints, including asthma.  In the office environment , problems with air


quality are thought to be a major contributor to staff absences through illness,


making it a major factor in productivity for most businesses.









So how would you know if there was an issue with


the quality of air in your home or office ? The first sign that there could be a


problem which requires attention would be if family members or staff  in the workplace


began to complain of chronic ailments such as the type referred to above.


Regular instances of headaches, allergic reactions or a general feeling of


malaise may well indicate a problem with indoor air quality. In order to get to


the bottom of the matter  you may have to arrange for the air in your home or


workplace to be professionally tested. Assuming you take this step  and the


result proves there is a problem which needs to be addressed – what next? You


then need to identify the source of the problem and take steps to resolve it.


There are many possible sources of poor indoor air quality. It may be caused by


problems with your heating or ventilation systems or by the growth of mould or


it may even emanate from your carpets and floorcoverings. It could even be


caused by something as mundane as your choice of cleaning materials.  In order to rectify matters  you may have to overhaul your heating or air


conditioning, use eco-friendly cleaning products in the home or office rather


than harsh cleaning chemicals, hire or buy an air purifier or ioniser or perhaps


even have your carpets and floorcoverings professionally cleaned, by a company


such as Proclean Carpet Cleaning Glasgow.









This last suggestion may seem a little strange


but unless carpets are regularly cleaned dust and dirt, together with other


unpleasant things like dust mites, can build up in the carpet fibres. As people


walk on  the carpets these items are disturbed and released into the air, causing


the problems we have already discussed. Thorough cleaning of your carpets can


eliminate up to ninety percent or more of these allergens, making it a simple,


cost-effective way to improve your indoor air quality.









Another surprisingly simple aid to improving


indoor air quality is to light  some scented candles, especially candles which


are made out of beeswax, which has been shown to act as a natural air purifier.


Beeswax candles are expensive and tend to be made by luxury manufacturers like


True Grace candles or Yankee candles. While they not be the answer to a problem


in the work environment, they provide an easy-to-implement way of improving the


air you breathe at home quickly and with minimum fuss.










The author is owner of the Scented Candles Store, your number one resource for scented candles including Yankee candles

Use Home Fragrances To Give Your Home A Warm Welcoming Fragrance

Evewrybody is keen to keep our homes   in the best possible light. Despite the fact that it may seem peculiar at first glance the way our home smells can often be important too. At the end of the day why go to all the trouble of getting your home beautifully decorated if the overall effect is ruined by some persistent smell that you cannnot quite locate. If you are confronted by lingering, persistent odours in the home there are a few tried and tested remedies you can use in an effort to get rid of them

First things first - make an effort to keep rooms clean and organized. Who know what may be hidden under that pile of magazines that has been sitting undisturbed in the corner for ages . Take some time to de-clutter and, of course, make sure you vacuum and polish often. If you have pets in the house they need to be bathed regularly and their beds or litters should also be kept clean. One of the easiest ways in which to overcome odours is to keep your home well ventilated. Open your windows whenver weather conditions allow to let some fresh air in. This alone can effectively combat that dank lived-in smell. Provided you are not affected by hay fever, try to make the most of the better weather in summer by letting some fresh air in. Put simply it helps make everything appear so much brighter and fresher.

Home fragrances like scented candles are also worth trying out. By this, we do not mean those foul smelling air fresheners or artificial plug ins which were used extensively in the Seventies, but more natural products such as incense sticks, scented candles or scented reeds. When it comes to selecting home fragrances it is probably advisable to go for the best quality products you can buy, like scented candles made by luxury brands such as True Grace candles and Yankee candles. These manufacturers craft their products using essential plant oils meaning they afford your home a fresh, natural fragrance. There is a plethora of different fragrances available so give several a try until you find one that you prefer.

The two rooms in the home that that are most susceptible to lingering smells are the kitchen and the bathroom. Give your kitchen or bathroom work surfaces the once over by using the tried and trusted old favourite of vinegar, which you can also blend with bicarbonate of soda. In fact vinegar combined with baking soda is a powerful freshener for a few different parts of the home. It can be utilised on drains, washboards and draining boards, not to mention on a whole host of kitchen and bathroom surfaces, including the internal parts of the fridge.

To conclude, a simple but effective way to give your living space a homely, comfortable fragrance is by cooking up a pot of good quality coffee. As the coffee perclolates, it will fill your home with its divine fragrance, masking any foul smells. So there you have it - four or five inexpensive, natural ways to keep your home smelling good - and no need to call on the bottle of bleach hidden away in the cupboard under the sink!



The author is owner of the Scented Candle Store which supplies a range of luxury home fragrances including True Grace candles and Yankee candles

Enjoy Your Barbeque This Summer

It's summer, and who doesn´t feel like than dining outdoors ? A barbecue is a great way of spending  time with friends on those hot summer nights  near the pool or in your garden. With a litle care and planning you can ensure that your event is truly successful.






The choice of food we buy will naturally be extremely important , because our guests will have different tastes and preferences. It is best to stock a wide selection of meats and fish  so you can be sure there is something for everyone. Easy to cook  cuts like chicken breasts and pork cutlets are always a good choice. They cook quickly  and are receptive to any number  of flavourings or marinades. Fish, too, is extremely easy to cook on a barbeque. If you are cooking whole fish, put some sliced onions and lemons in the belly cavity and make sure you use a special fish holder which will make turning the fish over much easier. And when you are thinking about food, please do not forget the vegetarians among you. There is a tendency to regard  barbeques as something exclusively for carnivores but it is possible to  make delicious vegetable based meals on the grill. Vegetable brochettes or kebabs are always popular while Mediterranean vegetables such as aubergines and peppers also work really well once grilled .






The choice of drinks is also very important,  because they usually have a large bearing on  the success of your event. Try to make sure you have a selection of wines, beers and of course non alcoholic drinks for the designated drivers. If the weather is hot, plenty of ice is also a necessity. One clever way of keeping a large amount of drinks chilled is to fill a common-or-garden waste bin full of ice and keep your white wines and beers in that. Not only does it keep your drinks cool, it also makes a great talking point for guests. When it comes to wines, everyone has their own preferences , but Spanish wines seem to work well with grilled food. One wine that can be highly recommended is the Spanish red "Ribera del Duero". As far as white wines are concerned, you can't go wrong with one from Rueda in southern Spain.






The atmosphere that you achieve for your special occasion will have much to do with the lighting you choose . The idea is to illuminate  the garden or area where you are hosting  your barbeque with scented outdoor candles. Luxury scented candles in glass jars like  those made by companies  such as True Grace candles and Yankee candles look great  twinkling  away in the twilight , especially  those giving off a citronella fragrance. You could place a row of different coloured candles along a wall to make a nice display or else use candles to pick out the border of a pool or pathway in your garden. This looks especially striking after dark. Scented candles are really delightful to smell, but if you choose citronella candles they have an added benefit  in that they are renowned  for their ability to ward off annoying  mosquitoes, flies and other bugs which are unfortunately very much present  on hot summer nights and which can make an al fresco event a misery for some. Other fragrances  which have been shown to be effective against bugs are eucalyptus and bog myrtle. Paddywax candles, a luxury brand from the USA, makes a lovely eucalyptus scented candle, mixed with the fragrance of olive wood, but I have yet to come across a bog myrtle scented candle. Whatever  food, wine or candles you choose, enjoy your summer evenings in the garden!




The author is owner of the Scented Candle Store where you will find a wide range of home fragrances, including Yankee candles and True Grace candles

The Safe Use Of Scented Candles Outdoors

Scented candles are very  popular  these days  as a home accessory . They come  in such a vast  selection  of colours, as well as different shapes and sizes, meaning  that it is usually  pretty easy  to find  a candle to match or compliment the decorative effect you are looking to create in  your home. But did you know  that you can also use scented candles outdoors ? Scented candles are a great  way of decorating a table for a barbeque or for an al fresco dinner during the better weather in summer . You can also decorative your garden by using scented candles. For example , if you have a garden wall then a few scented candles dotted along  the top of it will look great , especially  when the sunlight starts to go down . Another terrific idea is to dot  scented candles around the edge  of pathways to light them up as daylight fades in the evening. Scented candles in jars or tins work best for these ideas , such as  the ones you will find from luxury brands  like  true grace candles or Yankee candles. One word of caution  - make sure to  sit your candles securely  on a level surface. Even outdoors  a candle, if knocked over, can pose a  fire hazard. Wherever possible , place  your candles on a heat resistant holder - such as  a coaster or place mat - ensuring  it is wide enough for the size of the candle. If you are using pillar candles rather than jar candles, then the same advice applies to placing them on a flat, secure surface but, in addition, the first time you light the candle, let it burn for a few hours at the very minimum so as to hollow out the edges of the candle. This creates a "well" which holds the molten wax, preventing spills.The next time you decide  to light the candle, try  to ensure  that the wick is of a decent  size - a height of two to three centimetres is ideal. If the wick of the candle is higher  than that, cut off  any surplus , so as to ensure  a cleaner, more even burn, with less risk of sparks or dirt or debris collecting in the candle. To put the candle out , if you do not have a special wick dipper, then  use a spoon. Dip the wick while still alight into the pool of the candle's own hot wax. This will extinguish  the flame with minimum  soot and leave the wick clean for the next time you use the  candle. Needless to say , the candle should never be exposed to high temperatures or rain . Always keep candles out of the reach of children and animals. While the  candle is alight , never move it from one place to another . Burning candles should never be left unattended.








The author is the owner of the Scented Candle Store which supplies a wide range of scented candles including Yankee candles and True Grace candles

The Healing Powers Of Scented Candles

Aromatherapy can be described  as a quasi-medical practice  on the ability  of various   fragrances  to stimulate the  mind and body   thereby promoting   recovery from illness  and a general sense of wellbeing. There are many people who believe strongly in aromatherapies attributes, along with other alternative medicines such as reiki and reflexology



Aromatherapy is based on  the use of essential oils which are extracted from plants and other botanicals . The oils are obtained by a process known as distillation. Essential oils are very powerful , so ytou do not need to use much to achieve your desired effect . They can be used alone in healing therapies and relaxation, where they are usually diluted with a neutral carrier oil, but are also used in the formulation of various products, from soaps to scented candles .



The majority of  scented candles which obtain  their scent  from essential oils are  manufactured  by luxury brands like True Grace candles or Yankee candles. Essential oils are costly , so manufacturers of cheaper candles use artificial   scents  in their products. When a scented candle containing essential oils burns, the the aroma of the oil   disperses  easily through the air, creating an atmosphere of peace and calm .



Certain aromas  have been demonstrated  by research to have particular  effects on the mind and body, so that when you are looking to achieve a particular result  you should pick  an appropriately scented candle. Some of the most common scents with their associated attributes are as follows:



• Citrus scented candles (orange and mandarin). They have a sweet, refreshing scent that helps lower blood pressure, tone the stomach and calm you down if under stress.



• Sandalwood scented candles. They have a subtle, warm scent that helps improve arthritis and respiratory problems like asthma, bronchitis and colds.



• Pine scented candles. They have a light, fresh scent that relieves stress, muscle pain, sore throats, coughs, colds and rheumatism. The perfect time to light them is at the end of a hard working day.



• lavender scented candles. The scent of lavender is one of the most widely used fragrances in aromatherapy. It relieves all kinds of aches and pains, from headaches to fever. It is ideal to light a lavender candle when a child is sick.



• Candles with eucalyptus oil. Its aroma eases breathing, so it is used as an antiseptic for the respiratory tract.



• Mint scented candles. They have a fresh and exciting fragance. They are used to revitalize and refresh mind and body.



• Lemon scented candles. Its aroma is used to calm nerves, relieve headaches, stimulate thyroids and ward off insects.



As you will see from all this aromatherapy can convey many notabletherapeutic properties. Scented candles are a simple  and convenient method to enjoy these benefits in the home.








The author is owner of The Scented Candle Store where you will find a range of luxurious home fragrances, including Yankee candles and True Grace candles

Decorate Your Home With Scented Candles

Decorating  your home  with candles and home fragrances is a simple , yet elegant way  of giving your house a comfortable, warm  atmosphere. With the sheer abundance  of scented candles and accessories to choose  from, it can sometimes be a little difficult to know which type of candle is most suitable. Here  are a few  straightforward tips to get the best out of them. Don't forget  that candles can form part of our decor and, especially when you choose  luxury candles such as those  made by brands like True Grace candles and Yankee candles, they can be very pleasing to the eye , all on their own, with little or  no need for further embellishment. For example , if you choose  one of True Grace's beautiful scented candles from the "Village" collection, you will find  that it comes  in an extremely attractive etched glass jar. The jar itself is sufficiently striking  to allow it to be placed  on any table, shelf or mantelpiece, without the need  for any additional decoration. We can use candles of all colours and sizes and they can be used in different ways in different rooms. Put together candles of different heights for  better visual impact. As far as votive candles are concerned, light them in containers - either glass or crystal look attractive - for best results and safety . A more elaborate  arrangement can be made with multiple votives . Try  to arrange them  into groups of similar sizes and designs, to give your home a touch of romance. Place a floral arrangement or natural materials, such as perhaps  some  pine cones or seashells, around the base  of candle holders or candlesticks. These materials look best  with tall candlesticks. A large variety of floating candles in a glass bowl can be very attractive as a focal point for an evening party. To create this, first of all remove all plastic or flammable items near the bowl. The candles float because wax floats, and any candle wider than its height will float. Floating candles look best when there are several of them, preferably in different colours. At parties, christenings and weddings  use candles to decorate your table . Display your scented candles with appropriate accessories such as candle holders, bases or lamps. Alway remember to protect your furniture from any damage that may result from the melted wax, by sitting them on top of coasters. When it comes to choosing candle holders you have the luxury of picking from various materials such as bronze, glass, metal, chrome, ceramic and wrought iron. Wrought iron candle holders are more traditional in appearance and work best in a more conservatively decorated home, harking back to an old country house or castle. For something a little more unusual,  a bronze candle holder is a distinctive touch, adding a decorative and striking look  to any living space.


The author is the owner of The Scented Candle Store where you will find a wide range of scented candles, including the worlds favourite candles, Yankee candles

The Rebirth Of Scented Candles

If you have decided as part of your  New Year's resolutions to try  to live a more balanced, harmonious life , then perhaps  a good way to start  is to invest in a few candles. But surely candles are no longer fashionable or useful ? Well, despite the fact that you may have thought that the production  of candles would grind to a halt  after the introduction of mains electricity and, in particular, the lightbulb in the late twentieth century, the art of candle making has in fact continued and has recently experienced something of a renaissance, with many luxury candle making companies  coming to the fore , such as True Grace candles in England or Yankee candles in USA. These companies  create  their candles in the true artisan tradition, making their products by hand and paying great attention to detail in every aspect  of the creative process. They command \ receive  a premium price for their products  but if this is outwith your budget there are also a number of more industrial mass market candle makers operating who are able to supply   less expensive  alternatives. Candles are to be found in most  homes nowadays. To a degree  the use of candles is perhaps seen as a return to the kind of natural lighting used by our ancestors, a relaxing antidote to the pressures  of modern life, where the use of artificial lighting, in particular street lighting, has contributed to environmental pollution.

However, for all their new found popularity candles do not have  a functional role. They tend to be used these days as something attractive to decorate the home , as in the case of scented candles and other home fragrance items, or for their symbolic value. Sometimes, for example in religious ceremonies, they denote spirituality and mysticism, and sometimes celebrations. All acrossthe world, for instance, we all celebrate birthdays and other significant   days by blowing out candles on a cake. Candles can imbue you with a feeling of deep relaxation and tranquility, and can also give rise to moments of quiet and refection. Equally, the soft glow and flickering flame of your favourite scented candle can help create a romantic ambiance So don't leave your candles at the back of the cupboard - take them out, light them and enjoy their attractive  relaxing flame ! If you are using scented candles you will enjoy the best of both worlds. The lovely flame and beautiful colours of the waxes, combined with the fantastic aromas  they provide .








The author is owner of The Scented Candle Store where you will find a range of  luxury home fragrances, including True Grace candles and Yankee candles

A Brief Explanation Of Dry Carpet Cleaning

When you consider all the carpet cleaning methods out there  perhaps the the one that is most perplexing, particularly to the layman, is the method known as dry carpet cleaning. This technique is also sometimes called the absorbent compound carpet cleaning method. We should at this stage clarify one important point - dry carpet cleaning is not the same as dry cleaning for clothes. According to specialists Proclean Carpet Cleaning Glasgow dry carpet cleaning is generally recognised as having been invented by Racine Industries more than sixty yesars ago. Dry carpet cleaning involves vacuuming the carpet thoroughly, before applying applying a specially designed absorbent powder or microsponges containing controlled amounts of moisture and detegent to the carpet. The sponges contain a small, controlled amount of liquid which enables them to absorb any dirt in the carpet, before the now saturated powder is removed by a powerful extractor vacuum. One of the main advantages which dry carpet cleaning has over other techniques is that there is no need to wait for ages after cleaning for your floorcoverings to dry. In fact, because as a result of the small amounts of moisture employed with this cleaning method, your floorcoverings can usually be  back in use immediately after you have finished your cleaning job, with no with no waiting around interminably  while they dry out. As a consequence , dry carpet cleaning is especially valuable in cases where a lengthy drying time is really not practical, for instance for cleaning carpets and floorcoverings in a commercial environment. While this technique  is most useful  for use in offices and other work facilities, it is now much more popular for use for cleaning in people's homes. According to specialist contractors, Proclean Carpet Cleaning Glasgow , householders, just like commercial customers, do not want to have to put up with the inconvenience of wet carpets whenever they decide to have their carpets cleaned. Another signifuicant benefit of  dry carpet cleaning employing the Host system designed by Racine Industries is that it has been shown to make considerable improvements to the quality of air indoors by removing a sustantial amountof dust mites, pollen and other potentially harmful allergens.








The author is owner of Proclean Carpet Cleaning Glasgow which provides a range of specialist cleaning services, including domestic cleaning Glasgow

The Great Variety Of Home Fragrance Products

An excellent way to complement the beautiful decor of your home is by means of home fragrances , either in the form of scented candles or their more contemporary alternatives, reed diffusers . The final decisiion will depend on your circumstances. If you want  a subtle but continuous fragrance, then reed  diffusers are the ideal  choice, because it is not a particularly prudent ideato leave a scented candle burning for a long time unattended. If you prefer to give your home a fragrance "boost", for just a few hours, then scented candles are are terrific choice.



It really does not matter what  you choose, home fragrances afford  the homeowner a simple, yet effective way of giving their home an uplifting boost with the use of natural wholesome fragrances, such as scented candles. One of the most attractive things about modern home fragrances is the enormous selection which is available. This choice   encompasses not only to the method of dispersal of your favourite scent - either by way of scented candles or diffusers - but also to the selection of sizes, colours, designs and fragrances which are out there.



One thing which you should consider  is that when it comes to choosing scented candles or diffusers, one size does not necessarily fit all. The preceived wisdom is that there are some scents which  tend to give better results in particular areas of the home or in certain rooms than in others. By way of example, in the bedroom, to help you drift off to sleep, you would probably look to use relaxing scents  which might include chamomile or jasmine, in place of  aromas  such ascitrus or ginger which are more uplifting and invigorating. On the other hand, if you are considering taking a long relaxing bath, then relaxing  fragrances would are more appropriate.



The public rooms of your home - where you greet and receive visitors - are  are some of the places you would want to make as comfortable and welcoming as you can. That means that in these rooms delicate subtle floral scents would be a good option .



Scented candles and diffusers can be found  from a   large number  of manufacturers. These range from companies who specialise in cheaper mass-market products, which you can find  in the local shop, supermarket or even at the local garage, to luxury  brands who specialise in handmade products, created  in true artisan fashion, employing  the best  ingredients.



Luxury scented candles and diffusers, made by companies like True Grace candles and Yankee candles, are more expensive  than their factory produced  alternatives and it is a fair question to enquire whether this price difference can be justified. In essence the difference in price basically comes down to two main things. Firstly, luxury candle brands   make  their candles  using high-grade, eco-friendly waxes like soy wax or beeswax, instead of  less expensive unrefined waxes. These waxes are not only a more eco friendly choice for the consumer, but also have the added advantages that they burn longer and cleaner than the alternatives, while also emitting fragrance more effectively. On the downside, however, these waxes are more expensive than paraffin wax and similar less refined waxes.



Luxury candle brands also obtain their aromas from the essential oils and extracts of plants, trees flowers and other botanicals, rather than  from synthetic  fragrance compounds . These aromatic  oils and extracts are the same fragrance additives  which have been used by master perfumers for decades . While they allow  candle makers to create  long-lasting true-to-life fragrances, they also carry  a significant price premium over synthetic fragrances . As with so many things,whether you opt  for candles made by a premium  brand, or something less expensive , it all boils  down to individual choice.




The author is the owner of The Scented Candle Store where you will find a variety of home fragrances, including True Grace candles and Yankee candles

Scented Candles - A Look At Some Of The Leading Brands

Only a few short years ago  there were only a handful of manufacturers  making scented candles. Scented candles as we know them  today are generally acknowledged to have originated from  the United States around the start of the Nineties, co-incidentally around the same time that  the first experiments were being made into using soy wax as a cheaper , more environmentally friendly wax for candlemaking  than paraffin wax. In the intervening years , many manufacturers  of scented candles have come to the fore , so that now candlemakers  can be found in The States, the United Kingson, Europe and Australia. Some of these brands tend to appeal  to the mass-market such as companies like Yankee Candles or Colonial candles. However, there has been a distinct trend towards the higher end of the market lately  with candle makers spending more time and attention on finding, and using, the best quality  waxes and fragrance  oils in their products, and combining  them with truly striking  designs and packaging. These premium quality  candles are aimed  squarely at the luxury end of the market and tend to be priced accordingly . So, among these de luxe candle manufacturers, which companies stand out ? Well, to an extent, this is purely subjective. We all have our own preferences for a particular style, and, just as we have favourite perfumes or colognes , we also have our own preference for home fragrances . That being understood, there are a few companies out there who can certainly be regarded as leading exponents  of the candle making art. In the United States companies such as  Voluspa and Agraria have been around for a long time  and are continually producing beautiful collections of scented candles and other home fragrances. Across the Atlantic, True Grace candles are one of the United Kingdom's leading candle makers foremost candle making companies in the UK, producing some  of the most sought-after candles to be found anywhere. And  Ecoya candles are winning acclaim for their inspired collection of home fragrances as far away as New Zealand. The main reason for choosing scented candles made by one of these premium brands has to do with the quality they offer . Essential oils are used to give the candles their fragrance  so  that you can be sure you will receive a long lasting true to life scent from your favourite candle.



The author is owner of The Scented Candle Store which supplies a range of luxury home fragrances, including candles from True Grace candles and Yankee candles

Making Your Own Scented Candles Is Easy And Fulfilling

There can often be a radical difference between some kinds of scented candles, for example the difference between a bog-standard candle you can pick up at the local store and those you buy from specialist retailers. People are very often unaware of this and assume scented candles are all the same. You can either buy your candles at the store or online or alternatively you can actually make your own.
If you want to make your own scented candles you will need to get hold of the appropriate tools. Other than the right kind of wax and cooking equipment, you will need to find aromatic oils  which will give your candles a strong, realistic fragrance. You might even want to combine a variety of aromas to obtain a truly individual aroma of your own design. Although there is a huge variety of fragrances out there, some scents like rose or freesia or else the fragrance of baked items like pies, tend to be ever-popular. Candles infused with the fragrance of gingerbread or treacle pudding give a soothing and relaxing feeling. When you are talking about the fragrance of baked items, one other favourite that springs to mind is the scent of cinammon  As well as a large number of fragrances, there is also a variety of different waxes which are used, the most popular of which  is soy wax as it holds the scent for a longer period of time in addition to its slow rate of burning. Soy wax, or a blend using it, is used by many luxury candle makers like True Grace candles or Yankee candles.  Candles made out of soy waxalso emit a better, more far reaching aroma which helps fill up the entire room with a wonderful scent in a matter of minutes. For using soy wax to make your candle you first need to melt the wax in a double boiler over a high heat. Next you add the colour and scent required. Depending on the desired shape of the candle you can either pick up moulds available at craft shops and candle making supply stores or you may even make your own moulds out of tin foil. This is a very inexpensive way to make scented candles. The most common types include tapered, pillar, votive and tea light.
There is a finite degree of fragrance which you can expect to get from each candle. The basic difference between an ordinary scented candle and a richly scented one is basically defined  by the quantity of essential fragrant oils each ghas in its makeup . Some people are allergic to certain strong scents. This should be kept in mind when making, lighting or gifting candles. Scented candles are very useful to fill your room up with wonderful scents. You could light many different types, let their scents blend and create a uniquely different aroma. They are perfect to set up a specific type of mood. Scented candles are very useful to replace the smell of food when guests arrive as you wouldn't want them to know what is cooking in your kitchen. They are even best for covering up the smell of burnt food or any other foul smell.
So that is all there is to it. Why not get started making your own scented candles today? Your home will never have smelled better.





The author is the owner of the Scented Candle Store where you will find a huge selection of luxury home fragrances, including True Grace candles and Yankee candles

Give Your Home A Bright New Look Without Breaking The Bank

Giving your home a new look  can be an expensive exercise, but it is easy to get by  without spending a lot of money . Using original - and not necessarily expensive - decorative objects, you can create a stylish, pleasant ambiance. The style of your home can be changed simply by the use of a few  well chosen objects..

You may be surprised to learn that   smells  can affect the atmosphere and the overall appearance of a room. But by the use of  home fragrances such as scented candles, essential oils and incense burners you can simply and quicly give your home a bright fresh feel . For instance, if you would like to enjoy a subtle fragrance while taking a bath, simply add two or three drops of your favourite essential oil to the warm water.

For a simple yet elegant decorative touch  , why not try using a beautiful bowl or interesting vase? Just imagine the dramatic  effect you can create with a bowl filled with brightly coloured fruit such as lemons, limes and oranges or a lovely  bouquet of flowers. Without spending much  you can pick up a wide selection of vases or bowls that could be used in this way.  Why not try a decorative  flat bowl simply sitting on its own on your coffee table for a fresh modern touch? If you prefer  a more traditional feel, you can fill your favourite vase with either fresh or dried flowers.

There are lots of  other inexpensive items  available which will give your decor a much needed boost, or fill your home with a little more character. These decorative ideas are usually easy to find , no matter the style of your interior decorating, from the traditional to the contemporary. Various objects  such as cushions, rugs and throws bring an added colour or texture without breaking the bank.

Lighting is a very good way to influence the atmosphere in your home . Using scented candles, especially luxury scented candles made by premium  brands like True Grace candles or Yankee candles, you can create an atmosphere of calm and romance . Candle holders and candlebras can be artistic and show off  your candles to the best effect ,  enhancing  the decorative appeal of just about any room you care to mention. For instance a large wrought iron candle holder, such as you might find  in an old country home or castle, can make a truly an impressive design statement  in most traditional homes.







And perhaps the easiest way to keep your home looking its best  is to have it regularly cleaned. Having your carpets and rugs professionally cleaned  every six to twelve months can make a dramatic  difference to the look of your home  

So you see, very often it does not take much to revive and brighten the interior of your  house or apartment - scented candles, essential oils, cushions - using your imagination, you can easily imbue your home with some much needed character









The author is owner of the Scented Candle Store where you will find a large selection of luxury home fragrances inclusing scented candles by True Grace candles and Yankee candles

A Brief Guide To Choosing Scented Candles

Despite what you may think  scented candles are not all the same. There is a huge difference in the manufacturing process between  luxury scented candles, such as those created by brands like True Grace or Yankee candles, and the cheap mass-market candles which you can pick up  at the corner shop, supermarket or even the garage. This is one of the reasons some people end up being disappointed  with their scented candles. It stands to reason  that something which costs only a few pounds or dollars is unlikely to give off the same quality of fragrance as a scented candle costing several times as much . You will often find that price is a good guide to, or indicator of, the quality of a scented candle . The ingredients used to  make premium candles, especially good quality wax, such as beeswax or soy wax, along with essential plant oils used to create true-to-life aromas, are not cheap, and this is reflected in the price of the finished product. Invest a little more and you will receive a long-lasting top quality candle which you can truly enjoy.







In terms of choice,  people are increasingly leaning towards  more eco friendly home fragrance products, in preference to  those scented candles which are made from paraffin wax. As paraffin wax is obtained through the process of refining petroleum it is a non renewable resource and not the most environmentally sound  choice. If you are looking to burn scented candles that satisfy the modern consumers demand for eco friendly products  you should consider  trying a soy candle, a beeswax candle or one of the candles made from a blend of these waxes and other vegetable waxes, such as those made by True Grace candles and Yankee candles. Burning  fragrant candles made from soy wax or one of the other aforementioned waxes can help alleviate some  allergies or reactions brought on by burning scented candles made with paraffin or other waxes . Most candles are scented with oils from plants or essential oils . A good reason to burn fragrant candles is for aroma therapy, which is a good way to relax after a hard day .



Scented candles and home fragrance products like  reed diffusers are available in a whole host  of places, from  the local corner shop or supermarket to online specialist retailers . If you are looking for more luxurious scented candles, such as those made by brands like True Grace candles, then the best selection is probably to be found online . The one drawback  about buying online is that you cannot smell the candle before you buy, but if you are choosing  scented candles from reputable manufacturers you can be confident that they will produce  long-lasting, realistic fragrances, unlike some of the cheaper factory produced alternatives. Quite apart from the large number of different brands out there, you can also find a huge variety in the types of candle available, ranging from small scented candles in tins or votives which will give a few hours fragrance , to much larger pillar or jar candles with extremely long burn times - and often with a price tag to match!












The author is owner of the Scented Candle Store where you will find a large range of home fragrances, including True Grace candles and Yankee candles

Why The Wick Is So Important In Scented Candles

When you look at  scented candles you may be inclined  to think that of all the constituent parts,  all the little things that together make up a great scented candle, the wick is the least important . After all it's just a piece of fibre , is it not? In actual fact, the wick plays a very important role in the creation  of a good quality  scented candle, such as those  produced by luxury brands like Paddywax, Yankee Candles or True Grace candles. So what difference can the wick really make ? While the wick in a cheaper , factory-produced  scented candle is likely to be made from synthetic material, , such as nylon or other similar materials, when it comes to  luxury scented candles you will almost certainly  find that the wick is created from  plaited or braided cotton which is bound round  a central strand of zinc. In days gone by , the central strand of the wick was made out  of lead but that practice has been largely discontinued , especially for luxury  candle makers,  largely, though not exclusively, as a result of health concerns about using lead in household products .






There  are other important  considerations when it comes to creating a wick  for scented candles. For example , you may be surprised  to learn  that the diameter  of the wick is of particular significance . The wider  the diameter of the wick is, the larger the flame will be , so that  a larger sized candle will need a wick which is larger in diameter than that required for  a smaller candle. The importance of the size of the wick does not simply stop there . It is also possible to  modify  or slow down  the speed at which the wick burns, which will have a corresponding effect on the overall burn time of your scented candle . This is done by treating the cotton  with a special salt compound. Now, although  this may seem a little odd , strange as it may seem, when you set light to your favourite scented candle, it is not actually the wick which is burning . What happens is that the wick melts the wax , which then evaporates, so that the flame  you see from your candle  is the vapour from the wax burning, rather than the wick itself. So you see, the wick which you may be tempted  to take for granted, actually plays an important  role in your enjoyment of  your scented candles.






The author is owner of The Scented Candle store which supplies a wide range of luxury home fragrances, including True Grace candles and Yankee candles

A Look At Different Waxes For Candle Making

Candle manufacturers  have a choice  of different waxes to use  when it comes to making their wares . There are several  different types of wax available , from paraffin wax to beeswax and more exotic bespoke wax blends which candle making companies often use .  In past times , beeswax has been used for many years, indeed for centuries,  for making  fine handmade candles. However, today , probably as a result of its expense , beeswax is most often used by luxury candle makers such as True Grace candles as part of a blend of different waxes rather than on its own . Unfortunately to make candles using only beeswax could be prohibitely expensive to many who see scented candles as a simple, but inexpensive, way to freshen up their home . As the name implies beeswax is made  by bees and is harvested from the beehive, along with honey . Beeswax has a beautiful  golden hue , meaning that candle makers often do not need to add any colouring agent to beeswax candles. It also has its own , natural honey sweet  fragrance and the skill of the scented candle maker is to use this and compliment it with other aromas which will not overwhelm it. Beeswax also burns for a long time and gives off very little dirt or soot , which is perfect when you are lighting scented candles at home . A little known fact about beeswax is that it also acts  as a natural air purifier, which works perfectly  in delicately scented candles where you want nothing to interfere with the subtle fragrance.



When candle manufacturers , such as  luxury brands like Yankee candles or True Grace candles, are deciding to develop  a new scented candle it stands to reason  that one of the first things they need to decide  is what type of wax to use. For over a century  candle makers have been using  paraffin wax to make  their candles, but today  people are looking for  more environmentally friendly solutions. Paraffin wax is derived by using  petroleum, so it is no longer seen as the most environmentally appropriate  choice for many luxury candle brands.In actual fact ,  many candle makers have created  their own unique wax blend, such as Voluspa candles, who have created a wax blend  which includes coconut and apricot waxes. Alternatively, candle companies look  to use soy wax or beeswax for the most eco-friendly candle. Both soy wax and beeswax have their advantages . Soy wax is slow burning and  emits only a small amount of  soot. Beeswax is probably the purest form of wax to be found . It, too, burns slowly, meaning  candles made from beeswax last longer and offer great value for money. Likewise they also emit little dirt. Beeswax, however, is more expensive  than soy wax. Both, therefore, have similar attributes . If budget is not a consideration, then choose beeswax, failing which soy wax is a good alternative .








The author is owner of the Scented Candle Store where you will find a variety of luxury scented candles from brands like True Grace candles and Yankee candles