6 Best Places to Light Scented Candles
The glow of candlelight and the scent of seasonal spices are quintessential elements of Christmas coziness. Scented candles do more than just illuminate a room; they evoke memories, awaken the spirit of the season, and create a multi-sensory holiday experience. Strategically placing them around your home can transform ordinary spaces into enchanting festive havens.Here are the 6 best places to light scented candles this Christmas to maximize warmth, fragrance, and holiday cheer.
1. The Entryway or Foyer
Why: First impressions matter. Lighting a candle in your entryway welcomes guests with an immediate burst of festive fragrance the moment they step inside, setting the tone for the entire visit.
Ideal Scents: Opt for classic, universally appealing Christmas aromas like Balsam & Fir, Spiced Apple, or Warm Cinnamon. These scents instantly shout "Happy Holidays!"
Pro Tip: Use a sturdy candle lantern or place it on a console table far from the opening door to avoid drafts. This creates a welcoming, safe, and fragrant greeting zone.
2. The Living Room Mantel
Why: The mantel is often the focal point of holiday decor. Pairing your garlands, stockings, and lights with flickering candlelight creates a picture-perfect, nostalgic Christmas scene.
Ideal Scents: Choose sophisticated, warming scents that complement long, cozy evenings. Crackling Firewood, Smoked Vanilla, or Mulled Wine with notes of clove and orange are perfect choices.
Pro Tip: For safety, use flameless LED candles interspersed with real ones, especially if your decor includes dried pine or ribbons. Always ensure real candles are securely placed away from any hanging decor.
3. The Dining Table (During Meals)
Why: Candlelight is the ultimate tablescaping essential. It elevates every meal, from a festive breakfast to Christmas dinner, encouraging conversation and a relaxed, joyful atmosphere.
Ideal Scents: Select subtle, non-competing scents that won't interfere with the aroma of food and wine. Unscented, Vanilla Bean, or a light Citrus & Rosemary candle works beautifully.
Pro Tip: Keep candles low (in hurricanes or votives) so they don't block sightlines across the table. Always extinguish them before serving food to avoid any risk of contact with loose clothing or sleeves.
4. The Kitchen
Why: The kitchen is the heart of the holiday home, buzzing with baking and cooking. A candle here can mask lingering cooking odors and add a layer of festive scent that blends with the smells of treats.
Ideal Scents: Go for gourmand, bakery-inspired fragrances that smell like you've been baking all day. Gingerbread, Sugar Cookie, or Pumpkin Spice are delightful options.
Pro Tip: Place the candle on a central island or a counter far from the stove, sink, and any active food prep areas. Safety first!
5. The Bathroom (For Guest Use)
Why: Elevate your guest bathroom into a luxurious, spa-like retreat. A lit candle shows extra thoughtfulness, providing a calming ambiance and a fresh, clean scent for visitors.
Ideal Scents: Choose fresh, clean, or soothing aromas. Eucalyptus & Spearmint, Fresh Linen, or a gentle Pine scent can make the space feel pristine and serene.
Pro Tip: Use a small jar or votive candle on a secure surface. Ensure the room is well-ventilated if used for longer periods, and never leave it unattended.
6. The Bedroom (Evening Wind-Down)
Why: After the day's festivities, your bedroom should be a tranquil sanctuary. The soft light and calming fragrance of a candle are perfect for a Christmas Eve wind-down, promoting relaxation and reflection.
Ideal Scents: Select calming, comforting scents. Lavender & Chamomile, Cashmere & Sandalwood, or a soft, creamy Vanilla are ideal for fostering peace and restful sleep.
Pro Tip: Light the candle while you read or listen to music, but always extinguish it before falling asleep. Safety is non-negotiable.
Lighting Your Christmas Candles Safely & Like a Pro
To ensure your holiday remains merry and bright:
- Trim Wicks: Always trim wicks to ¼ inch before lighting for a clean, soot-free burn.
- Attend Them: Never leave burning candles unattended, especially in high-traffic areas or around children and pets.
- The First Burn: Allow the candle to create a full melt pool on its first burn to prevent tunneling.
- Draft-Free Zones: Keep candles away from drafty windows, Christmas trees, and decorations to ensure an even burn and prevent fire hazards.
By thoughtfully placing scented candles in these six key areas, you layer fragrance and light to create a deeply immersive, magical, and memorable Christmas atmosphere throughout your entire home.