Oil diffusers be damned — our editors just can’t quit the warm, cozy essence provided by a classic scented candle. In our experience, the best scented candles do so much more than simply fill your space with a rich, aromatic quality — they have a sensorial makeup that often helps to promote a more relaxed energy, too. Cozy candles can warm up a dull space, brighten a dark room, and enrich your home with an extra vibrancy that feels so palpable — whether you’re lighting them for a lazy night in or using them as the centerpiece for your next dinner party.
Of course, everyone’s candles tastes are different — some people gravitate toward moodier scents like woodsy, amber fragrances, while others prefer something fresh, like a linen-scented candle or a classic vanilla offering. With so many candle brands on the market, it’s hard to know which ones are truly the best of the best — especially when you’re shopping online.
What Makes a Great Scented Candle?
While candle standards may vary from one household to another, we’ve based our candle recommendations around a few key characteristics: the price point — ranging from affordable to luxurious — the potency of the candle’s fragrance, and the burn time of each candle (the longer, the better!).
Ahead, our editors divulged their picks for the best scented candles, with selects organized into specific categories. From cult-favorite fragrance brands like Le Labo and Diptyque to candles you’ve probably seen on Instagram like Sunday Morning, our editors didn’t hold back on revealing which candles they love most. Whether you’re looking for an option that can last you the whole season, a splurge-worthy candle that’ll double as a great stocking stuffer, or a strong-smelling candle that’s sure to fill up your space, you’re sure to find your new favorite candle below.
