In this article, we’ll be discussing what candle throw is and how it’s determined.
Table of Contents
What Does the Throw of a Candle Mean?
The term “throw” simply refers to the distance that a candle’s aroma can be distributed or travel.
A candle with a large diameter wick and a long flame will have a large throw, while a candle with a small diameter wick and a short flame will have a small throw.
What is a Hot Throw?
A hot throw is when you can smell a candle’s fragrance while the wax is melted and the candle is burning.
Most candles have a strong hot throw since the fragrance is released into the air as the wax melts.
What is a Cold Throw?
A cold throw is when you can smell a candle’s fragrance even when the wax is solid and the candle is not burning.
Not all candles have a strong cold throw since the fragrance is not released into the air until the wax is melted.
To test a cold throw, simply sniff the unlit candle.
What Determines Candle Throw?
There are three main factors that determine candle throw: fragrance oil concentration, type of wax, and wick size.
1. Fragrance Oil Concentration
The most important factor in determining candle throw is fragrance oil concentration.
The industry standard is 0.5 ounces of fragrance per pound of wax. If you were to double scent, then you would opt for 1 ounce of fragrance per pound of wax. And for triple scenting you would use 1.5 ounce of fragrance per pound of wax.
2. Type of Wax
The type of wax used can also affect candle throw.
Typically paraffin waxes provide a better scent due to its ingredients. Paraffin wax is a byproduct of petroleum.
Both soy wax and beeswax can provide a good scent throw, but they may not be as strong as paraffin wax.
So paraffin wax candles may provide a better throw but it will not be what many refer to as a “clean burn.”
3. Wick Size
The size of the wick can also affect candle throw. A larger wick will produce a larger flame, which will release more fragrance into the air.
However, it’s important to note that a large flame can also cause your candle to burn faster.
4. Candle Design
The design of the candle can also affect throw.
For example, a jar candle will typically have a stronger throw than a tealight candle because the fragrance has more room to disperse in a jar candle.
A scented pillar candle will also typically have a stronger throw than a jar candle because the fragrance has more surface area to disperse.
5. Type of Fragrance Oil
The type of fragrance oil you use will also affect candle throw.
Some fragrance oils are heavier than others and will not disperse as well into the air.
Heavier oils tend to be used in oil diffusers rather than candles.
6. Candle Placement
The placement of your candle can also affect throw.
If you place your candle in a well-ventilated room, the fragrance will disperse more quickly.
Conversely, if you place your candle in a small room with no ventilation, the fragrance will disperse more slowly and envelope the small room.
Why Is the Throw of the Candle Important?
The throw of the candle is important because it tells us how evenly the candle is burning and how strong the fragrance is.
A well-thrown candle with a strong scent is an indication of a clean, even burn. A poorly-thrown candle with a weak scent is an indication of an uneven, smoky burn.
In order to get the most out of your candles, it’s important to choose candles with a strong throw. This will ensure that you get a clean, even burn and that the fragrance is distributed evenly throughout your home.
What are Some Ways to Improve Candle Throw?
There are a few simple ways to improve candle throw:
- Choose a candle with a high fragrance oil concentration.
- Choose a soy wax or beeswax candle.
- Choose a candle with a large wick.
- Trim the wick before each use.
- Burn the candle for at least an hour to allow the wax to melt evenly and the fragrance to disperse evenly.
By following these simple tips, you can improve the throw of your candles and enjoy a clean, even burn with a strong fragrance.
And if you’re in the candle business trying to get a better throw, I recommend this video by Selfmade Candle Co.
The Bottom Line
The throw of a candle is important because it tells us how evenly the candle is burning and how strong the fragrance is.
My name is Candice and I have always loved candles since I was a kid. I continue to buy candles and try out new candle brands to this day! I started this blog to share my love of candles so I’m glad you’re here and hope that my content helps you out in some way!
