Candle Fragrance Calculator

Candle Fragrance Oil Calculator

function calculateFragrance() { var waxWeightInput = document.getElementById("waxWeight").value; var fragranceLoadInput = document.getElementById("fragranceLoad").value; var resultDiv = document.getElementById("fragranceResult"); // Clear previous results resultDiv.innerHTML = ""; // Validate inputs var waxWeight = parseFloat(waxWeightInput); var fragranceLoad = parseFloat(fragranceLoadInput); if (isNaN(waxWeight) || isNaN(fragranceLoad) || waxWeight <= 0 || fragranceLoad 15) { resultDiv.innerHTML = "Fragrance load typically should not exceed 15% for safety and performance. Please consider a lower percentage."; return; } // Calculate fragrance oil weight var fragranceOilWeight = waxWeight * (fragranceLoad / 100); // Display result resultDiv.innerHTML = "You will need " + fragranceOilWeight.toFixed(2) + " grams of fragrance oil."; resultDiv.innerHTML += "This amount is based on your total wax weight. If you are adding other additives, adjust your wax weight accordingly."; }

Understanding Candle Fragrance Load

Creating a beautifully scented candle involves more than just melting wax and adding a wick. One of the most critical factors for a strong, pleasant scent throw is accurately calculating your fragrance oil load. The fragrance load refers to the percentage of fragrance oil in relation to the total weight of your wax.

Why is Fragrance Load Important?

• Scent Throw: Too little fragrance oil, and your candle will have a weak or non-existent scent. Too much, and it can overwhelm, cause headaches, or even be unsafe.
• Burn Performance: Excessive fragrance oil can negatively impact your candle's burn. It can lead to a larger flame, mushrooming wicks, tunneling, or even a fire hazard. It can also cause the wax to sweat or seep oil.
• Cost Efficiency: Fragrance oils are often the most expensive ingredient in a candle. Using the correct amount prevents waste and ensures you're not overspending.
• Safety: Every fragrance oil has a flash point, and exceeding recommended fragrance loads can lower the wax's flash point, making it more flammable.

Common Fragrance Load Percentages

Most candle waxes can hold between 6% and 12% fragrance oil. Some waxes, particularly certain soy blends, might tolerate up to 10-12%, while others, like pure paraffin, might perform best at 6-8%. It's rare to go above 12-15% for safety and performance reasons. Always check the manufacturer's recommendations for both your wax and your fragrance oil.

• 6-8%: A good starting point for most waxes, offering a moderate scent throw.
• 8-10%: Often considered the sweet spot for many soy and paraffin waxes, providing a strong hot throw.
• 10-12%: For waxes with higher fragrance retention or for very light fragrance oils, but approach with caution and thorough testing.

How to Use the Calculator

Our Candle Fragrance Oil Calculator simplifies the process of determining the exact amount of fragrance oil you need. Here's how to use it:

1. Total Wax Weight (grams): Enter the total weight of the wax you plan to use for your candle batch. This should be the weight of the wax *before* adding any fragrance or dyes. For example, if you're making a candle with 500 grams of wax, input "500".
2. Desired Fragrance Load (%): Input the percentage of fragrance oil you want to use. This is typically between 6% and 12%. If you're unsure, start with 8% and adjust based on your testing. For example, for an 8% fragrance load, input "8".
3. Calculate: Click the "Calculate Fragrance Oil" button. The calculator will instantly display the precise weight of fragrance oil (in grams) you need to add to your wax.

Example Calculation:

Let's say you have 750 grams of wax and you want to achieve an 8% fragrance load:

Fragrance Oil Weight = Total Wax Weight × (Fragrance Load / 100)

Fragrance Oil Weight = 750 grams × (8 / 100)

Fragrance Oil Weight = 750 grams × 0.08

Fragrance Oil Weight = 60 grams

So, you would add 60 grams of fragrance oil to your 750 grams of wax.

Tips for Best Results:

• Test, Test, Test: Always make small test batches when trying a new wax or fragrance oil. What works for one combination might not work for another.
• Measure Accurately: Use a digital scale for precise measurements of both wax and fragrance oil. Eyeballing can lead to inconsistent results.
• Add at the Right Temperature: Add your fragrance oil to the wax at the temperature recommended by your wax supplier. Adding it too hot can cause the fragrance to burn off, while adding it too cold can prevent it from binding properly with the wax.
• Cure Time: Allow your candles to cure for at least 1-2 weeks (or longer for some waxes like soy) before burning. This allows the fragrance oil to fully bind with the wax, resulting in a stronger and more consistent scent throw.

By using this calculator and following best practices, you can confidently create candles with optimal scent throw and excellent burn performance.