Wax melts come in a variety of colors and scents. While fragrances like sea salt, passionfruit, honeysuckle, and fruity cranberry may appear natural, they are actually not. Most wax melt cubes and tarts are typically made with paraffin or soy wax.
Most companies do not disclose their wax melt ingredients list. The few that do, like Febreze, reveal a list of synthetic ingredients that you wouldn’t want floating in your home’s air:
Wax Blend, Fragrances, Synthetic Wax, Benzophenone-12, Octrizole, Pentaerythrityl Tetra-Di-T-Butyl Hydroxyhydrocinnamate, Phenol, 2.4-Bis(1.1-Dimethylethyl)-, 1.1′.1”-Phosphite, Colorants
If you prefer a healthier option, you can easily make your own!
DIY Wax Melts
Instead of using a long list of synthetic chemicals, these DIY wax melts use simple ingredients. Beeswax forms the base with a light honey scent, while coconut oil has a high burn temperature and lower melting point. Together, they create a wax melt that is similar to soy wax without the drawbacks.
Essential oils are added for a subtle, inviting scent. While not as potent as synthetic fragrance oils, essential oils do not cause headaches or neurological issues. They come in a variety of scents, from fireside to vanilla bean to apple cider snickerdoodle. Although essential oils have fewer options, the benefits outweigh the limitations!
Buy it: If you prefer not to make them yourself, you can purchase beeswax melts made with pure essential oils from my favorite candle company here. They are also available on Amazon here.
Natural Scented Wax Melts
There is a wide variety of essential oils available for use in wax melts. You can use a single oil like lavender or create your own blend. Popular essential oil blends are available from companies like Plant Therapy. Essential oils also have antimicrobial properties that help cleanse the air and can positively impact mood.
Here are some ideas for scents to use in your wax melts:
- Balsam Fir – Supports the respiratory system and purifies the air with a Christmas tree scent.
- Sandalwood – Has a warm, earthy aroma that helps relax and relieve tension. It pairs well with lavender, sweet orange, or patchouli.
- Citrus oils – Grapefruit, sweet orange, lemon, and lime are popular scents that can be blended with base notes like cedarwood, frankincense, and vetiver.
- Eucalyptus – Supports healthy breathing and blends well with peppermint, lavender, or geranium.
- Pumpkin Spice – Create a fall blend with cinnamon, clove, and cardamom essential oils, perfect for autumn colds and flu.
A Note on Safety
When using essential oils in wax melts or candles, the scent is subtle and may not fill a large room. It is important to consider safety when burning them around children or pets. Research kid-friendly and pet-safe oils to use in these instances.
KidSafe blends from Plant Therapy can help simplify the process. You can also learn about essential oils safe for pets here.
Although wax melts do not have an open flame, it is still recommended to keep the warmer out of reach of pets and children to prevent accidents.
Colored Melts
Beeswax naturally has a yellow hue, but you can add natural colorants for different colors. Indigo can provide a deep blue color, while alkanet root infused in oil creates a rich red hue, often used in tinted lip balms.
Homemade Wax Melts
These DIY wax melts require simple ingredients and can be customized with your favorite scent. You can also add alkanet for a colored version.
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Add the oil and beeswax to a double boiler or glass bowl. Heat over medium-high heat until completely melted, stirring occasionally.
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Once melted, turn off the heat and stir in the essential oils.
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Pour into silicone molds of choice and let cool completely.
To use, add a few wax melts to a wax warmer and let melt.
Where to Get a Wax Warmer
Wax warmers typically operate at a temperature of 150 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also use a double boiler on the stove with your wax melts, but the scent will be limited to the kitchen area.
There are various types of wax warmers available, with electric ones being the most effective. Many wax warmers are ceramic, which may contain lead in the glaze. Look for glass options to avoid this issue. You can also use a glass dish on your wax warmer.
If you enjoyed this tutorial, learn how to make your own beeswax candles here.
What are your favorite scents for candles and wax melts? Share in the comments!