The Best-Smelling Candles to Add to Your Collection (I Know You Have One) 

When someone came up with the saying “Good things come in small packages,” they were definitely referencing candles, and you can’t change my mind. Despite being a small cylinder of scented wax, candles can change the entire vibe of a room and bring immense joy to those who light them. It’s my instant way to calm myself down when I’m working or just making my space feel cozier. They also make great gifts for anyone and are a small (but special) enough purchase to treat yourself without feeling guilty. 

While there are plenty of candles on the market, I’ve gathered the best candle brands for you right here. So if you’re looking for something new to add to your nightstand or coffee table, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re into spa-like scents or a sniff straight into a garden, there are options in this rotation for you. Plus, how many candles are too many? To me, the limit doesn’t really exist. 

You’ve definitely seen this brand before, and I’m here to tell you it’s actually worth the hype. Boy Smells is known for its unique scents like cannabis, but if you’re not into the scent of Kush, it also has plenty of floral and woodsy scents. Plus, that colorful square label will look good in any space.

P.F. started off as a one-woman Etsy shop and now is thriving with a team in Southern California. It’s known for woodlike scents, its most popular being Teakwood and Tobacco, Amber Moss, and Sandalwood. 

Kishmish was started by two friends who wanted to bring their South Asian culture to modern-day products. Their candles are hand-poured in San Francisco and feature scents like fresh chai, jasmine, and red roses. 

Voluspa is the luxurious candle you light when you’re looking to create an oasis in your home. With scents like Laguna and goji, it’ll be like taking a trip without the travel.

Founded in 1960, Diptyque is not new to the game of scents and is a tastemaker’s favorite. Everything from the logo to the scents is iconic. They’re on the pricier side, but if you consider yourself a scent connoisseur, you might want to splurge on these candles. If you need more convincing, Meghan Markle used Diptyque candles to scent St. George’s Chapel on her wedding day.

Another splurge-worthy candle that will look divine on your dresser. Byredo also follows through with its mission to translate experiences and emotions into products.

You may recognize Le Labo for its very popular scent, Santal 33, but there are so many more offerings on the luxury candle brand’s deck. The brand’s Santal 26 candle has 26 ingredients, including amber, vanilla, cedar, and musk.

When I first saw this brand on Instagram, I was intrigued by the fun packaging. Founder Abigail Stone was originally an art buyer for Ralph Lauren, so she knows what the fashion set wants. The candles are custom coconut and soy wax and come in scents like California figs, champagne, and peony blossoms.

One of my best friends is devoted to Jo Malone perfumes and candles, and I fully understand why. With a strong history and scents like Pomegranate Noir and Lime Basil, the British brand has established itself as a leader in the luxury beauty world. 

If you love French fashion, let me introduce you to this candle brand based out of Paris. The brand’s signature products are its pink and holographic candles. They’re sure to add a touch of flair to your space all while bringing the aroma of croissants, botanicals, roses, and rain. (Yes, you read that right—croissants.)

Would this truly be a candle roundup if I didn’t include the Bath & Body Works classics? While the typical B&BW candle may not have the most aesthetically pleasing packaging, the White Barn brand is a little more elevated. People go to the mall and hoard these candles for valid reasons, one being that their strong scents are unmatched.

Whether you’re homesick yourself or want to send a loved one who’s long-distance a gift, Homesick candles give the perfect element of nostalgia and home. Whether they’re channeling a place or an experience, they’ll surely put a smile on anyone’s face.

This article was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.