Thinking about setting up a candle biz? Or maybe you already have one and you're keen to bring in even more customers. Either way, you've probably realised that scent is like the secret weapon in the increasingly competitive candle world. While 2023’s candle trends focus heavily on aesthetics, fragrance still matters. To put it bluntly, if your candle smells like your grandma’s musty living room, no one’s going to buy it.
So, what are the most popular candle scents that people just can't resist? Great question. We've done the homework for you, combing through search volumes and trend reports. From the comforting notes of a pumpkin candle to the zen vibe of a lavender one, we've rounded up the most sought-after scents to make your candles a hit—or to help you find your own new favourite scent. Let’s dive in.
Scent #1: Pumpkin Candle
Ah, the Pumpkin Candle—Autumn in a jar. With its rich, creamy aroma, it conjures up everything we adore about the season: Falling leaves, oversized jumpers and pumpkin spice lattes. And let's not forget its growing popularity. Thanks to the trend of going all out on Autumn decor—dubbed "the new Christmas"—this scent has become more than just a seasonal delight; it's practically a household essential. Whether you aim to capture the essence of Autumn in your living room or gift a nostalgic piece of the season, a pumpkin candle is a hit, year after year. Making your own? Get your creamy pumpkin fragrance oil.
Scent #2: Vanilla Candle
You can’t ever go wrong with vanilla; it’s a timeless classic that never falls out of favour. And these candles are the go-to choice for a reason; they're universally pleasing and can make any house feel like home. Walking into a room filled with an intoxicating vanilla fragrance is like being wrapped up in a cosy blanket or tempted by freshly baked goods. Every candle lover has a vanilla candle in their collection, so make sure your collection can deliver what the people will always want.
Scent #3: Gingerbread Candle
Think gingerbread is just for Christmas? Think again. This warm, spicy aroma, redolent of ginger, cinnamon, and vanilla, has year-round appeal. Its cosy, inviting nature makes it a surprisingly versatile choice, perfect for anything from rainy-day reading to intimate dinner parties. If you’re keen on making candles that are good enough to eat, make sure your recipe includes our irresistible gingerbread fragrance oil.
Scent #4: Sandalwood Candle
Sandalwood has long been a crowd-pleaser, known for its universally appealing, warm and woody aroma. It's not just in the world of candles where sandalwood shines—it's a star player in men's fragrances too, pointing to its versatility and broad appeal. But what makes the warming sandalwood fragrance especially popular is its ability to transform any space into an oasis of calm. This scent has not just stood the test of time but has evolved into a go-to for those wanting to add both luxury and serenity to their living spaces.
Scent #5: Lavender Candle
Lavender whispers pure relaxation, and with the growing interest in candles for their therapeutic purposes, you may want to consider infusing your wax wonders with some soothing lavender fragrance oil. This floral scent isn't just for bubble baths and bedtime; it has become a staple in modern aromatherapy for its calming, stress-relieving effects. Whether winding down after a hectic day or setting the tone for a serene evening, a lavender candle is often the top choice—so why not make it part of your ‘calm’ collection?
Scent #6: Cinnamon Candle
Since the colder months are when candle sales heat up, it’s hardly surprising that the oh-so-comforting cinnamon candle made it on this list. It almost becomes a household staple in December, given that the spicy warmth of this scent captures the essence of the Christmas spirit like no other. So, if you’re launching a line of festive winter candles, don’t forget to add a cinnamon fragrance oil to your crafting list.
Scent #7: Lemon Candle
As the seasons shift, so do our aromatic preferences. Enter the lemon candle, a vibrant and refreshing scent that transports candle enthusiasts straight to the sun-drenched Amalfi Coast. The zesty notes of lemon bring an invigorating burst of summer to living spaces, making it the perfect aroma to lift your spirits and energise your day. If you're longing to bottle up the Italian summer, we have just the thing.
Scent #8: Fresh Linen Candle
Sometimes, simplicity is key. And nothing says clean and fresh like the classic scent of linen. It recreates the comforting sensation of slipping into freshly laundered sheets or the crisp breeze of a clear blue day. Not only that—it's renewing, making any room feel instantly more inviting and peaceful. In a world filled with complex aromas, this one stands out for its straightforward, yet incredibly satisfying, olfactory experience. Looking for a fresh linen fragrance with a summer twist? This one will help your candle stand out.
Which One Will Be Your All-Time Favourite?
Starting with classic, popular scents is a smart way to broaden your target audience when you're in the business of selling candles. But with 10 million smell receptors in the average person's nose, it's worth remembering that fragrance perception is highly individual.
So while sticking to the classics can be a good business move, don't be afraid to venture outside the box. You're the artist here; let the scents you choose tell your story. Who knows, your original blend might set the next big trend. And remember, with complex and diverse fragrance oil blends on offer, you can create a truly unique aromatic experience.