Wax Melts: How to Use Them
New to wax melts, or just want to get more out of them? You're in the right place. At Scented Aromas, we've been handmaking wax melts in Manchester for years — and we know everything there is to know about getting the best scent throw, the longest-lasting fragrance, and the most enjoyable experience from every melt.
What Are Wax Melts?
Wax melts are small, scented pieces of wax that release fragrance when gently heated. Unlike candles, they have no wick — they're designed to be used with a wax warmer or burner. They come in a huge variety of shapes, sizes, and scents, making them one of the most versatile home fragrance options available.
Types of Wax Melts
- Soy wax melts — made from natural soybeans, eco-friendly, and burns cleanly. The most popular choice for a strong, healthy scent throw.
- Gel wax melts — our personal favourite. No smoke, intense fragrance, and incredibly easy to clean up — once cooled, the gel simply peels away.
- Paraffin wax melts — known for a strong scent throw, though some prefer to avoid them due to the crude oil refining process. Current regulations confirm they are safe and non-toxic.
- Beeswax melts — a natural option with a subtle honey-like scent. Environmentally friendly and easy to work with thanks to a lower melting point.
How to Use Wax Melts: Step by Step
- Choose your scent — pick a fragrance that suits your mood. Browse our range from fresh and floral to warm and cosy.
- Place the wax melt in your warmer — break off a piece (or use a whole one) and place it in the dish of your wax warmer.
- Turn on the warmer — for electric warmers, simply switch it on. For tealight burners, light a tealight underneath the dish.
- Enjoy the fragrance — the heat gently melts the wax, releasing beautiful scent into your room.
How to Make Your Wax Melts Last Longer
- Use a lower heat setting — if your warmer has adjustable settings, a lower heat extends the melting time and preserves the fragrance.
- Don't overheat — 2–4 hours at a time is ideal. Leaving them on too long burns off the scent faster.
- Store properly — keep unused wax melts sealed in their original packaging in a cool, dark place to preserve the fragrance.
For more detail, read our full guide: How to Make Your Wax Melts Last As Long As Possible.
Common Questions About Wax Melts
Do you burn wax melts until the wax is gone?
No. Unlike candles, wax melts don't evaporate — the wax stays in the warmer after the scent has been released. Once you can no longer smell the fragrance, it's time to replace the wax.
Can you use wax melts without a burner?
Wax melts need heat to release their scent, so a wax warmer is essential. You can choose between electric warmers and tealight burners depending on your preference.
How many times can you use a wax melt?
You can reuse a wax melt multiple times until the fragrance fades. The exact number of uses depends on the quality of the melt and your warmer type.
How long should you leave wax melts on?
We recommend 2–4 hours at a time. This gives you a great scent experience while preserving the fragrance for future uses.
Ready to find your perfect scent? Shop our full Wax Melt Collection — handmade in Manchester with premium fragrance oils.