Candles have this superpower to make any home feel warm and inviting. They fill the air with delightful scents, creating a cozy atmosphere that wraps around you like a comforting hug. And while strong odors might not be for everyone, we can all agree that a candle’s vibe can only be matched by a night sky full of stars.
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There are numerous ways to enjoy a candle, but have you ever heard of a candle warmer? It can be a tool to make your candle experience even better. Imagine enjoying your favorite scents without worrying about an open flame. That’s precisely what a candle warmer can do for you!
A candle warmer isn't just a practical way to enjoy your candles; it also adds elegance to your space. Simple and effective, you’ll easily find a candle warmer that can easily match any aesthetic you’re going for, from modern to rustic and everything in between.
So, if you want to enhance your living room design with the inviting aroma of candles, a candle warmer might be your new favorite tool. Share this idea with your friends and family, and let them in on the secret to a cozier, safer candle experience!
What Is a Candle Warmer?
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A candle warmer is a gadget that helps you enjoy the fabulous scents of candles without using a flame. There are also different electric candle warmers, which use various techniques to perform their duties.
You might wonder what is the point of this fancy approach to candles. Well, there are two points—aesthetics and safety. An open flame is risky, especially if you have little children or pets. Fire can be fascinating, and even adults sometimes get lost in its hypnosis.
As for aesthetics, there are homes where a traditional candle just won't compliment the interior. With a candle warmer, you choose what suits your surroundings the best. There are two most popular types of candle warmers: lamp and plate. They both offer the same functionality but can fit in different settings.
How Does a Candle Warmer Work?
The candle warmer’s goal is to gently melt the wax of a candle and release the scent. While there are a few types of it, the core concept remains the same—you place a candle in its place on the warmer, and then either the plate at the top or at the bottom gets warm, starting the melting process. And then a wondrous scent follows!
The Benefits of Using a Candle Warmer
- They offer a safer alternative to live flames. A live flame can bring a whole basket full of problems. An electric candle warmer will ensure your home and its occupants remain safe.
- They help achieve an even melt. We all know the slight annoyance of when a candle burns through the center, but its sides remain intact. Then, the process of breaking and cutting begins, which is just an inconvenience. With a candle warmer, though, you’ll achieve an even melt.
- They double as a cozy lamp. If you're looking to enjoy the cozy ambiance of a candle by your bedside at night while also having a gentle source of light, a candle warmer lamp is the perfect choice.
- They contribute toward warming your interior design. Having a candle warmer can significantly contribute to your interior. There are plenty of designs to choose from, and we’re sure you’ll find one that fits every room of your home.
The Drawbacks of Using a Candle Warmer
- Costly. A candle warmer is a more serious investment than just running to the nearest store and picking up your favorite scented candles. But depending on your needs, this investment can be one of the best you ever make.
- Design commitment. With simple candles and their holders, it wouldn’t break your bank to run out and get a new one when you become bored with its design. With a candle warmer, which is a more significant investment, you'll need to give careful thought to both its design and how it complements your home.
- Not so portable. You’ll also have to pick the best spot for a candle warmer and stick with it. Candle warmers are bigger in size than just a candle, making them more cumbersome to relocate and fit into small spaces. So make sure you pay attention to the measurements before buying!
Our Top Picks: 10 Candle Warmers for a Cozy Ambiance
Scrolling through countless candle warmer options online can be tiresome and time-draining, even if you already have an aesthetic in mind. Hence, we reckoned, you might need a little nudge in the right direction. To ease up your search, we’ve compiled our top 10 pics for candle warmers from the internet. Here are the ones we liked the most and why:
1. luzdiosa Candle Warmer Lamp
Best Functionality
With the ability to adjust the temperature, this candle warmer lamp supports candles 10cm (3.9 inches) in diameter and 17cm (6.7 inches) in height. A mix of modern and classic design will fit almost any setting and provide you with the functionality of charging your devices with the help of a built-in USB port.
2. Cozyberry® Querencia Candle Warmer
Sleek Design
With a vintage design infused with a touch of modernity, this minimalistic fragrance lamp will add an elegant touch to your home’s decor. A non-slip wooden base will ensure your lamp stays in place safely. Adjustable brightness and temperature will allow you to match your preference and fill the house with a welcoming scent.
3. CANDLE WARMERS ETC 2-in-1 Candle and Fragrance Warmer
Perfect Size
Modern cup design will work wonders for your table decorations. This classic fragrance plate allows you to melt wax directly in the dish, as well as place a glass candle jar on top of it. A 4-inch plate diameter will let you melt large candles and fill your home with a pleasant smell.
4. Rnyloas Candle Lamp Warmer With Timer
Universal Design
With essential height and temperature adjustment features, this candle warmer also comes with a timer, lessening your worries even more. An elegant and minimalistic design will fit almost any decor style. With the included 50-watt halogen bulb, you can start your fragrance journey right out of the box!
5. MAOYUE Lantern Candle Warmer
Retro Design
With this lantern-styled modern design, a 50-watt halogen bulb will provide a wonderful smell in your home. A timer functionality will also let you not worry about leaving it on, allowing you to use this candle warmer lantern as a night lamp in your bedroom while enjoying wonderful smells.
6. Aaleds Candle Warmer Lamp
Traditional Approach
Don’t look any further if you’re looking for a more traditional approach to candle warmers. This simple design has all the functions of any other modern fragrance lamp. Adjustable temperature and a timer will provide you with comfort while using it. At the same time, it looks like a unique candle stand, with the illusion of a candle burning inside it.
7. CANDLE WARMERS ETC Wooden Farmhouse Candle Warmer
Minimalist Design
If your home is more minimalistic and modern but still craves a spicy touch, this candle warmer is the right fit for you. A matte finish will elegantly compliment your decor. An included warming light bulb will easily melt your candle up to 3.5 inches tall and provide a soft glow, creating a cozy setting, both in smell and lighting.
8. AIKUT Candle Warmer Lamp
Biggest Size
This royal-styled crystal glass fragrance lamp will inject your home with a fancy spice while also providing a cozy source of light and scents. Perhaps the tallest option out there, this candle warmer lamp can fit large candles under its 35-watt halogen bulb. Additionally, a timer feature will enable you to set your desired duration for enjoying wonderful smells.
9. Marycele Candle Warmer Lamp
Vintage Design
With a vintage glass design, this dimmable fragrance lamp will best fit bohemian or contemporary interiors. Adjustable height allows for candles of different heights to fit worry-free, and a timer feature will further improve the comfort of using this candle warmer.
10. Hestia Magic Candle Warmer Lamp for Big Candles
Environment-Friendly
A durable design and premium materials will allow you to enjoy this fragrance lamp for a long time. A power-saving bulb will also be easier on your electricity bill, as well as helping you take a step in the right direction of saving our planet. With a timer and a dimmer, you can further improve the energy-saving part, as well as create a cozy atmosphere in your home.
What to Look For in a Candle Warmer Lamp
When you’re on the hunt for the best candle warmer for your needs, there are different features you should keep an eye out for. Here are some of them:
Candle Warmer Type
Image credits: House of Laverne and Candle Warmers Australia.
You need to pick out which one fits your vibes the best. Is it a plate or a lamp? Consider the surrounding furniture and decor style, and pick one that would be the easiest on the eyes.
Candle Warmer Size
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For this, you need to figure out where you will keep your candle warmer and how big your candles will be. There are many options for the location and candle sizes, so think beforehand and grab your measuring tape!
Variable Temperature
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Some candle warmers offer variable temperature settings, allowing you to set the heat to your liking and get the most out of your candle. Also, different temperatures can have different results in the scent produced by the candle, so that’s also worth keeping in mind.
Automatic Timer Shutdown
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While candle warmers are much safer than the traditional way to burn candles, leaving one unattended for extended periods can prove troublesome. That’s why it would be wise to research a candle warmer with a featured timer.
Is a Candle Warmer Worth It?
If you’re a sucker for scents and an open flame doesn't hypnotize you too much, a candle warmer is just the right thing for you. It’s perfect for modern homes, where various gadgets improve our daily lives regularly.
If you’re more into the classic furniture and home vibes, a candle warmer lamp can still be a great addition to your decor. A wonderous scent, plus cozy light by your bedside, could significantly improve your “before bed” ritual.
And as for costs, while they’re more costly, we believe every cent is worth it. You get what you pay for, and a candle warmer’s provided benefits are well worth the investment, even if you don't see an immediate need for it.
So, we hope you enjoyed exploring our take on candle warmers and found some helpful info! Let it guide your decisions and spark ideas for decorating your home.
FAQ
Are Candle Warmers Safe?
Candle warmers are a safer alternative to burning candles with an open flame. With a regular candle, there’s always a chance it could tip over or catch something on fire, as well as your cats or children deciding that a flame sure looks like something they would like to touch. But with a candle warmer, you eliminate all the possible external risks.
How to Clean a Candle Warmer?
Cleaning a candle warmer is pretty much a straightforward process. Make sure to unplug it first and let it cool down for a while. When it’s cold, use a soft cloth to wipe away any wax residue, and if some of it becomes stubborn and refuses to come off, you can use warm, soapy water. Just be sure to dry it well afterward.
Remember, keeping your candle warmer clean ensures it performs at its best. So, give it a little love, and it’ll keep making your space smell amazing!
How Hot Does a Candle Warmer Get?
A candle warmer gets warm but not too hot. It’s designed to melt the wax in your candle, which doesn't take too much heat. You can touch it without getting burned, but we still advise you to be careful and not leave your hand on it for too long, especially if the candle warmer has been on for a while.
How Long Can You Leave a Candle Warmer On?
You can leave a candle warmer on for a while without worrying about it too much. However, it’s best to give it a break after a few hours. For most of the candle warmers, around 4 hours is a reasonable time to leave it on. This way, it keeps working its best without any risk of damage. Remember to turn it off if you’re leaving or heading to bed, and let it cool down when cleaning. Safety first!