Best Candles: My Go-To Brands and Scents
I’ve spent countless cosy evenings testing dozens of candles—from luxe boutique finds to budget-friendly jar candles. After a week lighting each one around my home, I’m sharing which brands truly stand out, which candles throw the strongest scent, and insider tips like the 8:10 rule for perfect burns. Plus, a peek at Kim Kardashian’s candle picks!
Why Candle Quality Matters
Ambient lighting and fragrance can transform any space. But cheap paraffin jars often smell synthetic and burn unevenly. In my experience, premium blended-wax candles not only last longer but also fill rooms with a consistent, non–overpowering scent.
What Are the Best Candle Brands?
Based on scent throw, burn time, and design, here are my top five:
- Boy Smells (Hinoki Fantôme)
- Wax blend: coconut + beeswax
- Burn time: ~55 hrs
- Scent throw: warm wood, moss, smoked amber
Pros: Complex, room-filling aroma; chic matte jar
Cons: Pricey per ounce
- P.F. Candle Co. (Amber & Moss)
- Wax: 100% soy
- Burn time: 45 hrs
- Scent notes: sage, lavender, moss
Pros: Affordable; balanced, not too sweet
Cons: Jar label can leave residue
- Voluspa (Baltic Amber)
- Wax: coconut blend
- Burn time: 60 hrs
- Scent throw: amber resin, sandalwood, vanilla orchid
Pros: Long burn; elegant embossed tin
Cons: Single wick on larger sizes
- Diptyque (Baies)
- Wax: premium para-soy mix
- Burn time: 60 hrs
- Scent: blackcurrant + Bulgarian rose
Pros: Iconic fragrance; reusable glass
Cons: High price point
- Yankee Candle (Large Jar – Clean Cotton)
- Wax: fine fragrance wax
- Burn time: 110 hrs
Pros: Widely available; huge scent throw
Cons: Jar thickness can tunnel
What Candle Gives Off the Most Scent?
In my burn tests, Boy Smells and Voluspa led for scent throw, filling my 250 sq ft living room within 10–15 minutes. Yankee Candle’s 3-wick styles also flood spaces quickly, but sometimes overly so.
What Is the 8:10 Rule for Candles?
The “8:10 rule” means burning a candle for 8 minutes, then blowing it out for every 10 minutes of total burn time. This helps:
- Prevent tunnelling.
- Promote even wax pool formation
- Extend overall lifespan
In practice, I light my jar for 40 minutes, then rest it 32 minutes before relighting.
What Are Kim Kardashian’s Favourite Candles?
Kim has shared loving her SKKN by Kim Vanilla A.M. candle and Diptyque’s Feu de Bois. She says the wood-smoke notes help her unwind after a busy day on set.
How I Tested: Real-Life Experience
“I tried each candle in my bedroom, living room, and home office for a week. I paid attention to:
- First burn scent throw
- Even wax melt pool
- Wick performance over time
- Design and reusability”
Alternatives Comparison
| Feature | Boy Smells Hinoki Fantôme | P.F. Candle Co. Amber & Moss |
|---|---|---|
| Burn Time (hrs) | 55 | 45 |
| Wax Type | Coconut + beeswax | Soy |
| Price/oz | $4.50 | $3.30 |
| Scent Strength | Very strong | Moderate |
| Vessel Reuse | Yes | Yes |
Who Should Buy Which Candle?
- Cozy luxury lovers: Boy Smells, Diptyque
- Budget-conscious testers: P.F. Candle Co., Yankee Candle
- Long-burn seekers: Voluspa, Yankee Candle
Expert Tip
Always let the wax pool reach the edges on the first burn—this “memory ring” prevents uneven burning and maximises scent throw over the candle’s life.
FAQs
Q: How do I trim my wick?
A: Trim to 1/4 inch before each lighting to avoid soot and oversized flames.
Q: Can I reuse candle jars?
A: Yes—after the wax cools, place the jar in warm water to loosen the leftover wax, then clean with soap.
Q: Are wooden wicks better?
A: Wooden wicks give a crackling ambiance but require more trimming and attention.
Q: What’s the best candle for small bathrooms?
A: P.F. Candle Co.’s reed-fresh scents (e.g., Lemongrass) work well in compact spaces.
Q: Do candles expire?
A: For optimal scent, use within 1–2 years and store in a cool, dark place.
Final Verdict
If you’re in the USA looking to elevate your home’s ambiance, Boy Smells Hinoki Fantôme and Voluspa Baltic Amber deliver consistently strong scent and burn performance. For everyday luxury on a budget, P.F. Candle Co. Amber & Moss is a reliable pick. Ready to light your perfect candle? Shop your style and enjoy that warm glow and lingering fragrance tonight!