Wax melts come in many different colors and scents. While scents like sea salt, passion fruit, honeysuckle and fruity blueberries may seem natural, they are anything but. That's not to mention most wax melt cubes and tarts are usually made with paraffin or soy wax.
Most companies do not disclose their wax melt ingredients list. The ones I was able to find were definitely something I don't want floating in the air of my house! Here's what you'll find in the Febreze brand, one of the few that discloses a full list of ingredients:
Wax blend, perfume, synthetic wax, benzophenone-12, octrizol, pentaerythritol tetra-di-t-butyl hydroxyhydrocinnamate, phenol, 2,4-bis(1,1-dimethylethyl)-, 1,1′.1”-phosphite, color
If you're looking for a healthy alternative, it's easy to make your own!
DIY wax melts
Instead of a laundry list of synthetic chemicals, these wax melts use a few simple ingredients. Beeswax provides the base and has a light honey scent. Coconut oil has a higher burning temperature than many oils and has a lower melting point than beeswax. The two together create a wax melt that melts like soy wax without the downsides.
I have also added essential oils for a subtle and inviting scent. These aren't as strong as synthetic fragrance oils, but they won't be either it gives you a headache and neurological problems! Fragrance oils come in almost every scent known to man, from fire to vanilla bean to apple cider snickerdoodle. While the options are a little more limited with essential oils, the trade-off is worth it!
buy: You already know you don't want to do them? My favorite candle company sells the beeswax melts made with pure essential oils can be found here. You can also get them here on Amazon.
Wax melts with natural scents
There are so many different essential oil options now. You can use a single oil, such as pure lavender, or mix them to create your own blend. One of my favorite essential oil businessesHerbal therapy, there are many pre-made mixes that smell great. Essential oils also provide antimicrobial properties to help purify the air. Many, like citrus oils, also affect the limbic system to support a positive mood.
Here are some ideas on what to use in your wax melts:
- Fir balsam – Helps with cough and supports the respiratory system. It helps clean the air and smells like a Christmas tree.
- Sandalwood – Has an earthy, warm scent that helps relax and ease tension. I like to use it in this sandalwood tanning oil. It is more expensive but still works well when mixed with cheaper oils like lavender, sweet orange or patchouli.
- Citrus oils – Grapefruit, sweet orange, lemon and lime are the favorite flavors. These “high notes” don't stay in the air as long and can work better when combined with base notes. Examples include cedar wood, frankincense and vetiver.
- Eucalyptus – Helps support healthy breathing and lung function. Blends well with a variety of oils, including peppermint, lavender or geranium.
- Pumpkin spice – Make your own fall-flavored blend cinnamon, carnationAND cardamom essential oil. These oils have antimicrobial properties that are perfect for fall colds and flu.
A note on security
When essential oils are used in wax melts or candles, they provide a subtle fragrance that won't fill a large room. However, it's a good idea to keep safety in mind when burning around children or pets. Do your research and only use oils that are kid-friendly and/or pet-safe when burning around these groups.
THESE KidSafe mixes from Herbal Therapy help take the guesswork out of it. And you can read what essential oils are safe for pets here.
While wax melts don't have an open candle flame, it's still best to keep your melt warmer away from where pets and little ones can knock it over or get burned.
It melts with color
Beeswax has a yellow, honey-colored hue that I love in candles. If you want a different color, then there are several natural dye options. One is indigo for a deep shade of blue. I haven't personally tried it so I'm not sure if it will stain a wax warmer tray.
Another option is alkanet root. When introduced into oil, the alkane gives a rich, ruby-red color. Often used in nature tinted lip balm.
Homemade wax melts
These wax melts contain a few simple ingredients and can be customized with your favorite scent. You can also add alkanes 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 your favorite silicone molds and let cool completely.
To use, add some wax melts to a wax warmer and let it melt.
Where to get a wax warmer
Wax heaters burn at about 150 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. You can also use a double boiler on the stove with your melted wax. The downside of this is that the smell is reduced in your kitchen area.
There are many different wax warmers, but electric ones (not tea lights) work best. Many wax warmers are ceramic which likely have lead in the glaze. There they are several glass options who do not have this problem. You can also get a glass container to put in your wax warmer.
If you like this tutorial, check out how to make it yourself beeswax candles here.
What are your favorite scents for candles and wax melts? Leave a comment and let us know!
