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How to determine the quality of a candle before buying it?

Candles are more than just decorative objects; they create an atmosphere, diffuse a pleasant fragrance and can even have relaxing properties. But with so many candles on the market, how do you make the right choice? To help you find quality candles, here are a few things to consider before you buy.

Fragrance:
the central element of a candle

Choosing a scented candle is not a matter of chance. First and foremost, it must scent your home with a pleasant, refined fragrance. It is the central element of the candle, directly influencing your olfactory experience. UNAVELA works with Patrice Revillard, a renowned master perfumer, to take you on a journey through scented creations.

Fragrance intensity

The scent of a candle should be pleasant, but not too heady. In fact, a candle with too much fragrance can quickly become unpleasant. It’s important to choose a candle with a scent intensity that suits your tastes and intended use.

  • For a relaxing atmosphere, opt for a candle with a soft, delicate scent, such as lavender or vanilla.
  • If you want to give your room a more intense fragrance, you can choose a candle with a stronger scent, such as eucalyptus or lemon.


Note that a wax blend can contain a maximum of 10-12% fragrance. Candles containing 10 to 12% fragrance have the perfect concentration, offering a perceptible scent without being overpowering. To test a candle’s fragrance intensity, simply smell the unlit jar. If the fragrance is already very strong, there’s a good chance that the candle will be too fragrant once lit.

Fragrance complexity

Opt for candles scented by professional designers or perfumers. Professional perfumers know how to create complex, harmonious fragrances, composed of several notes that complement each other. Complex fragrances, composed of top, middle and base notes, offer a richer, longer-lasting olfactory experience.

  • Top notes are the lightest and fade quickly. They serve to attract attention and give a first impression of the fragrance.
  • The heart notes are more present and constitute the body of the fragrance. They develop as the candle burns.
  • Base notes are the heaviest and longest-lasting. They fix the fragrance and give it depth.

Fragrance duration

A quality candle releases its fragrance even after it has been extinguished. In fact, the wax continues to release the fragrance for several hours after the flame is extinguished. This is an important consideration if you want to enjoy the fragrance of your candle all day long, even when you’re not using it. To test how long a candle’s fragrance lasts, simply extinguish it and smell the surrounding air. If the fragrance is still perceptible several hours after the flame has been extinguished, the candle is of good quality.

Containers and packaging:
more than just an aesthetic element

A candle’s container isn’t just an aesthetic element; it’s also an important one.
Container material :
  • Prefer borosilicate glass containers, which is heat- and shock-resistant glass. It allows you to see the wax melt and enjoy the beauty of the flame.
  • Metal containers are also a good option, as they are sturdy and durable. They can give the candle a chic, modern look.
  • Porcelain is an ecological and elegant material. It allows the candle’s heat to spread evenly.
UNAVELA Bougie Valencia
UNAVELA Candle Orange Blosom
Packaging finish:

  • A top-of-the-range product is distinguished by meticulous details, such as a well-adhered label and centered elements.
  • The printing on the container must be clear and legible.
  • The packaging must be sturdy and protect the candle during transport.

Box quality:

A rigid box in thick cardboard or custom packaging in polycarbonate like the MOLECULE candle testifies to the care taken in presenting the product. For a truly unique experience, opt for customized packaging.

Polycarbonate Box MOLECULE UNAVELA
Polycarbonate Box MOLECULE UNAVELA

The wick:
an essential component

The wick is an important element in candle combustion. It must be thick enough to ensure a stable flame and avoid burning out too quickly, but thin enough not to give off black smoke. Two types of wick are commonly used:
  • Untreated cotton wick: this wick is natural and environmentally friendly. It burns cleanly and evenly, without producing black smoke.
  • Wood wick: this wick crackles as it burns, which can be an aesthetic feature appreciated by some. However, it can also release smoke and particles, and its combustion is not always as uniform as that of a cotton wick.
Choose untreated cotton wicks for a clean, even burn.

Type of wax:
a quality indicator

Wax is the candle’s main component, and its type has a direct influence on the quality of combustion and fragrance. Three types of wax are commonly used:
  • Rapeseed wax: this vegetable wax comes from a renewable plant and burns cleanly and smokelessly. It is often used for scented candles, as it diffuses fragrances well.
  • Mineral wax: derived from petroleum, this wax is less environmentally friendly than rapeseed wax. It can tend to smoke and give off an unpleasant odor.
  • Beeswax: this natural wax is renowned for its quality and delicate fragrance. It is often used for decorative candles, as it gives the candle a beautiful, shiny appearance.
Opt for candles made with vegetable waxes, such as rapeseed wax, for clean, environmentally-friendly burning. Make sure the wax is clean and free of imperfections. A quality wax will have a smooth, even surface.
A quality candle is one that offers an overall pleasant experience of use. This starts with the purchase of a candle made from quality materials, such as an untreated cotton wick and clean vegetable wax. Next, it’s important to open the packaging properly and follow the instructions for use to get the most out of the candle. By choosing quality candles, you help create a warm, fragrant atmosphere in your home.

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