How Often Should You Change Your Wax Melts?
You should change your wax melts when the scent fades, not on a set timer. How long that takes depends on the fragrance, how much wax you use, your burner and the size of your room, so your nose is the best guide. Below we explain how to tell when it's time for a fresh melt, how to remove the old wax and how to make your wax melts last as long as possible.
For the full picture, read our guide to how long wax melts last, and see how to use wax melts for tips on getting the most from each piece.
Quick Answer: When to Change a Wax Melt
- When the scent fades: if you can no longer smell it once the wax has fully melted, it's time to change it.
- When your nose says so: how long a piece lasts depends on the fragrance, the amount of wax, your burner and your room, so there's no set number of hours.
- When the wax looks tired: thin, darker or grainy wax has given up most of its fragrance.
- When you fancy a change: you don't have to wait. Let the wax set, pop it out and try something new.
How Often Should You Change Wax Melts?
There's no fixed rule for how often to change wax melts. It depends on the fragrance, how much wax you use, your burner, the size of your room and how often you have your burner on. The more you use your burner, the sooner you'll need a fresh piece. The simplest test is your nose. When the room no longer smells of your chosen scent, even with the wax fully melted, it's time for a fresh piece.
Signs It's Time to Change Your Wax Melt
1. The scent has faded
The most obvious sign. Every fragrance gives off its scent over time, and once it's used up the wax will melt without filling the room. Some scents are naturally stronger than others, so a bold, sweet fragrance may last longer than a light, fresh one.
2. The wax looks different
As the fragrance is used up, you may notice the wax looking thinner, darker or slightly grainy. That's your cue to swap it out.
3. Your room is bigger than usual
A wax melt that easily scents a bedroom may feel weaker in a large, open-plan living space. In bigger rooms you may need to change your wax melts more often, or use slightly more wax.
How Long Do Wax Melts Last?
All Hampshire Candles wax melts are hand-poured in Hampshire with soy wax and premium fragrance oils. There's no set number of hours: when you can no longer smell it, change it. How long a wax melt lasts in your home depends on:
- The fragrance itself, as some scents are naturally stronger than others
- The size and airflow of your room
- Your burner, whether it's an electric wax melt burner or a tealight wax melt burner
- How much wax you use at once
Looking for a stronger scent that lasts? Browse our strong wax melts and long lasting wax melts.
How to Change and Remove Old Wax Melts
- Turn off your burner or blow out the tealight, and let the wax cool and set completely.
- Pop out the wax: once it's fully set, gently press the edge and it should lift out in one piece.
- Wipe the dish with a soft, dry kitchen towel to remove any leftover residue. For a deeper clean, see our guide How to Clean and Maintain Your Wax Melt Burner.
- Add your new wax melt and enjoy a fresh scent.
Never try to pour out or move melted wax while it's hot.
How to Store Wax Melts So They Last
Store unused wax melts in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat, ideally in their packaging. Avoid the bathroom, where moisture and humidity can affect them. Wondering whether old wax melts are still OK to use? Read our guide Do Wax Melts Expire?
Keep Your Home Smelling Fresh
The easiest way to always have a fresh wax melt ready is to keep a few favourites in. Mix and match any four scents with our 4 for £12 wax melts, try our 4 for £12 Mini Snap Bar Wax Melts, or browse our full range of soy wax melts. Free UK delivery on orders over £45.