For generations, people have used scented candles to alleviate psychological discomfort and promote healing. However, the side effects of lighting up a candle are gradually perceived and avoided. Candle warmers are one of the results that are used to enhance the soothing experience.
Despite candle warmers have addressed most challenges brought by burning candle directly by a wick, there are still some disadvantages we need to be kept informed so we can make better investment options.
What are the cons of using candle warmers?
While candle warmers offer plenty of benefits, they’re not without their drawbacks. These devices can limit your choice of candles, may release fragrance more gradually than a flame, and often require a power source to operate. For those used to the cozy ambiance of a flickering flame, candle warmers may feel like a compromise. Here’s a closer look at some potential downsides to consider before switching to a candle warmer.
Slower scent release
Candle warmers melt candles more slowly because they use gentle, indirect heat rather than the intense, direct flame of a candle wick. And that can result to a slower scent release. In larger spaces, this can be especially noticeable, as the scent may take longer to diffuse. Additionally, people who like to alternate between different scents may find this slower release a bit limiting. This disadvantage can turn out to be a lovely point, because the scent can also become long-lasting afterwards.
Limited candle size and types
Candle warmers work best with specific types of candles, typically jar candles that fit well on the warmer plate or under the heating lamp. Larger or unusually shaped candles may not be compatible, as they may not fit comfortably or melt evenly on the warming plate. For example, pillar candles, taper candles, or candles in unique or decorative shapes might not melt properly or could be unsafe to use with a warmer.
Additionally, the size of the candle is often a limitation, especially for lamp-style warmers where only small-to-medium jars fit beneath the heating element. Even on plate warmers, a very large candle might not melt evenly across the whole surface, which could result in uneven fragrance release. This restriction can be frustrating for candle lovers who want the flexibility to use any candle in their collection, as it limits them to specific candles that are often smaller or more uniform in size.
Disadvantages of different types of candle warmers
There are various options on the market for candle warmers. Get to know their drawbacks and settle for the one that suits you best.
Lamp-Style Candle Warmers
Top-down warmers, also known as lamp-style warmers, use a small heat lamp to melt the candle from the top down. This design allows each layer of wax to release its fragrance more thoroughly, resulting in a consistent scent experience. However, once the top layer of melted wax loses its scent, you’ll need to pour it off to help the heat reach the fresh wax underneath.
Plate-Style Candle Warmers
One drawback of using a plate-style candle warmer is that budget models often lack temperature controls or automatic shut-off features. If the heated candle is in a low-quality glass jar, overheating can cause the glass to crack, spilling hot wax all over—a far better outcome than a fire, but still a major hassle to clean up!
Why use a candle warmer?
Candle warmers provide a safer, cleaner, and more efficient way to enjoy your favorite scents. They eliminate the need for an open flame, reduce air pollution, and help extend the life of your candles.
For more information, you can read our another article: Why Use a Candle Warmer?
Keep your air cleaner
Candle warmers are a great way to enjoy the soothing scents of candles without the downside of air pollution. When you burn candles, harmful gases like carbon monoxide and formaldehyde are released into the air, which can cause headaches, respiratory problems, and even long-term health issues. But with a candle warmer, there's no open flame, so you avoid all these harmful emissions. Instead of burning, the warmer gently heats the wax to release fragrance, making it a cleaner, safer option for your indoor air. It’s a simple change that helps keep your space smelling great without the extra pollutants.
Safer alternative to traditional candles
One of the biggest advantages of candle warmers is that they don’t require an open flame. Traditional candles burn with a wick, which can pose fire hazards, especially if left unattended or knocked over.
Candle warmers, on the other hand, use gentle heat to melt the wax, completely eliminating the risk of flames. This makes them a safer option for households with children, pets, or anyone concerned about fire safety. Plus, without a flame, there’s no need to worry about soot buildup or the mess of extinguishing a candle. It’s a simple, hassle-free way to enjoy your candles with peace of mind.
Other considerations to use a candle warmer
It's best to avoid low-quality scented candles made from paraffin or synthetic materials. Instead, opt for candles made from natural ingredients like beeswax or soy wax, and choose essential oils over synthetic fragrances to reduce exposure to harmful pollutants.