How to Use Wax Melts Safely and Effectively

Wax melts are one of the most popular ways to fill your home with luxurious fragrance—without the flame of a traditional candle. But while they’re safer and easier to use, it’s still important to follow a few simple safety tips to get the best results and keep your home safe.

Here’s your complete guide to using wax melts safely and effectively.

🔥 What Are Wax Melts?

Wax melts are small, wickless pieces of scented wax. Instead of lighting them like a candle, you gently warm them in a wax burner or wax warmer. As the wax melts, it releases beautiful fragrance into the air.

At Scent & Sparkle, our wax melts are made with eco-friendly soy wax, and are 100% vegan, cruelty-free, and hand-poured in the UK.

🕯️ What Do You Need to Use Wax Melts?

To get started, you’ll need:

  • A wax burner (either tealight or electric)

  • Unscented 4-hour tealights (if using a tealight burner)

  • Your favourite Scent & Sparkle wax melts

✅ Step-by-Step: How to Use Wax Melts Safely

  1. Set up your burner on a heatproof surface
    Always place your wax burner on a flat, stable, and heat-resistant surface—away from curtains, pets, children, and anything flammable.

  2. Add your wax melt
    Pop one wax melt or half a snap bar segment into the burner dish. Don’t overfill—the wax will expand as it melts.

  3. Add your heat source

    • If using a tealight burner, insert an unscented 4-hour tealight underneath the dish.

    • If using an electric wax warmer, turn it on and allow it to heat gradually.

  4. Let the scent fill the room
    Once the wax begins to melt, the fragrance will slowly release. Enjoy the aroma for up to 8–10 hours per melt.

  5. Turn off or extinguish safely
    Blow out the tealight or turn off your electric burner after use. Never leave it unattended.

⚠️ Safety Do’s and Don’ts

DO:

  • Use only burners designed for wax melts

  • Follow the manufacturer's instructions

  • Use 4-hour tealights only

  • Keep away from pets, children, and drafts

  • Allow burner to cool before touching or cleaning

DON’T:

  • Use oil burners (they get too hot)

  • Leave burners unattended

  • Add water or oils to the wax

  • Move your burner while in use

  • Burn for more than 4 hours at a time

♻️ How to Remove Used Wax

When the scent fades, it’s time to switch melts. Here are two easy ways:

  • Cotton ball method: While the wax is still warm (but not hot), place cotton balls into the wax to soak it up.

  • Cool & pop: Let the wax harden, then gently push it out of the dish. You can use a soft tool or your fingers.

Wipe the burner clean before adding a new melt.

🌿 Storing Your Wax Melts

To keep your wax melts fresh:

  • Store in a cool, dry place

  • Keep away from direct sunlight and heat

  • Use a sealed container or drawer for best scent retention

💡 Pro Tips for the Best Experience

  • Half a melt is usually enough for smaller rooms

  • Mix and match scents for your own custom blend

  • Try our sample box to discover your new favourite scent