Ah, there’s nothing quite like relaxing with a new wax melt, only to realize the air is filled with synthetic fragrances, carcinogens, and something called Benzophenone-12. While those wax melts make your home smell inviting with scents like latte, watermelon, and cheesecake, they often contain harmful toxins.
But don’t worry—you can make your own DIY wax melts for a cozy scent without the chemicals! You might have seen wax melts in the candle aisle of your favorite store or at craft fairs. They’re quite popular, not just in the U.S. but worldwide.
These wax melts are colorful and scented, but those natural-sounding fragrances like sea salt and cranberry aren’t as pure as they seem. Most are made from paraffin or soy wax, and companies rarely list their ingredients, which can include a laundry list of synthetic chemicals.
If you’re in the market for a healthier alternative, it’s simple to make your own. Using beeswax, which smells lightly of honey, and coconut oil, the combination creates a wax melt that performs like soy wax without the negatives. To add fragrance, include essential oils. They might be more subtle than synthetic options, but they won’t cause headaches.
There are many essential oils to choose from. You can use a single oil like lavender or mix a blend. Plant Therapy offers several premade blends and essential oils with antimicrobial properties. When used in wax melts, they provide a subtle scent without overpowering a room. Still, remember to use oils that are safe for children and pets.
Though wax melts don’t have a flame, keep them out of reach of kids and pets to prevent accidents. For color, beeswax has a natural honey hue, but you can use natural colorants like indigo or alkanet root for variations.
Wax warmers typically heat between 150 to 200 degrees Fahrenheit, and while you can melt wax over the stove, it might limit the scent to the kitchen. Electric wax warmers tend to work better, and if avoiding lead in ceramic glaze is a concern, look for glass options.
Interested in this DIY project? Try making your own beeswax candles too! And let us know what scents you enjoy for candles and wax melts in the comments!
