A Definitive Ranking of the 20 Best Scented Candles, Vetted by a Home Editor

Sometimes, all you need to brighten your mood after a long, hard day is light a deliciously scented candle. Plus, nothing gets us more into the holiday spirit quite like a pumpkin-scented fragrance flickering in the window does. But what makes for a great candle? For us, it comes down to three things: The best candles have a nice, long burn time, a strong enough throw that you’ll be able to smell them throughout the room (without being overpowered) and containers that can double as décor on your coffee table. And while everyone has their own scent preferences, there are a few brands that stood out from the pack after doing extensive candle research. (Think: Diptyque, Le Labo, Voluspa and TikTok’s favorite Baccarat Rouge scent in candle form.)

Below, a definitive ranking of the 20 best-scented candles (and scroll down for some info on what to keep in mind while you’re shopping).

1. Throw: This refers to how well the candle's scent will circulate around your room. For the best throw, look for candles with paraffin wax.
2. Burn time: Some candles, like those made with soy wax, have a higher density than others and burn at a cooler temperature, making them burn down slower and consequently, last longer.
3. Container: Many candles can double as décor if their containers are visually appealing. Others can still be recycled, since you can repurpose their vessels after the wax has fully melted down.
4. Wax type: As we've mentioned above, the type of wax a candle is made with can affect everything from its throw and burn time to the amount of pollutants it gives off in your home. We've outlined the most popular types below.

• Paraffin wax: Paraffin wax is a great choice when you want a candle with a great throw, as it's able to pack more fragrance inside.
• Soy wax: Soy wax is made from the oil of (what else?) soybeans. If you're constantly running out of your favorite scents, this might be a better candle option for you, since this type of wax burns cooler and slower than others
• Beeswax: Beeswax candles are natural and sustainable, and, as a result, have less toxins than other candles. As an added bonus, it burns longer than paraffin and drips less, so you'll have fewer accidents with your furniture and rugs.

First, and most importantly, you want to look for a candle scent that you not only like, but one won't irritate you if burned for an extended period of time. This is an especially important point for those with allergies, who may be sensitive to certain fragrances. Options with natural essential oils may be less aggravating, and beeswax candles, which are largely free of toxins, can cut down on chemical reactions.

Beyond that, however, the best way to narrow down a scent is by considering mood and season. If you’re looking for something cozy in the winter, opt for more masculine notes of amber, cedar, sandalwood or vetiver. Otherwise, for floral or fresh candles (better for spring and summer), you want to look for fruity and floral notes, like rose, grapefruit, jasmine or lily.

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