The holiday season is synonymous with warm, inviting scents that fill our homes, and Bath & Body Works’ holiday candles are often at the forefront of creating that magical atmosphere. With an array of options to choose from, we embarked on a fragrant journey to sniff and score these candles to determine which ones are truly the best.
The Allure of Holiday Candles
Holiday candles have a unique charm. They not only provide light but also infuse the air with scents that evoke memories and emotions associated with the season. Bath & Body Works is known for its extensive collection, and during the holidays, they outdo themselves with new and classic fragrances that are designed to make our spaces feel cozy and festive.
The Testing Process
We gathered a selection of Bath & Body Works’ holiday candles, setting up a dedicated testing area. Each candle was lit one by one, allowing the fragrance to permeate the space. We paid attention to several key factors during the evaluation.
- Initial Scent Impact
The first impression is crucial. When the wick was lit, we noted how quickly the scent filled the room. Some candles had an immediate and powerful aroma that could be detected from a distance, while others had a more subtle start. For example, the “Winter Candy Apple” candle had a strong, sweet scent that hit you right away, like walking into a candy – filled wonderland. On the other hand, the “Frosted Coconut Snowball” had a slower, more gradual release of its tropical – holiday blend. - Scent Complexity
A great holiday candle should have more than just a single – note fragrance. We analyzed the different layers of scents within each candle. The “Twisted Peppermint” candle, for instance, had a beautiful combination of cool peppermint, which provided a refreshing top note, and a hint of vanilla in the background, adding a touch of warmth and sweetness. This complexity made it stand out as a more sophisticated scent. In contrast, some candles had simpler profiles, which still had their appeal but lacked the depth of others. - Scent Throw and Longevity
Scent throw refers to how far the fragrance spreads, and longevity is how long the scent lasts during burning. We moved around the testing area to determine the reach of each candle’s scent. The “Mahogany Teakwood” candle had an impressive scent throw, filling a large room with its rich, woody aroma. As for longevity, we timed how long the scent remained noticeable even after the candle was extinguished. Candles with high – quality wax and fragrance oils, like the “Vanilla Bean Noel,” had a lingering scent that stayed in the air for hours, making the space smell delicious long after the flame was gone.
The Top Picks
- Holiday Classics
- “Winter Candy Apple”: This candle remains a favorite year after year. Its blend of juicy red apple, cinnamon, and a touch of caramel makes it a sweet and indulgent choice. The strong scent throw ensures that the entire room is filled with its festive aroma, and it’s perfect for creating a lively holiday mood.
- “Twisted Peppermint”: As mentioned earlier, the combination of peppermint and vanilla is a winner. It’s a refreshing scent that brings to mind cold winter days and holiday treats. It’s great for those who love a more invigorating fragrance during the holidays.
- Newcomers with Promise
- “Frosted Coconut Snowball”: This unique blend of coconut, vanilla frosting, and a hint of mint offers a tropical twist to the holiday candle lineup. It’s a great alternative for those who want something different from the traditional holiday scents. The scent is not overpowering but still manages to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
- “Sugared Snickerdoodle”: With its notes of cinnamon, sugar, and a creamy vanilla base, this candle smells like freshly baked cookies. It’s a cozy and comforting scent that’s perfect for the holiday season, especially if you’re looking to add a touch of home – baked goodness to your home.
Conclusion
Sniffing through Bath & Body Works’ holiday candles was a delightful yet challenging task. Each candle has its own personality and charm, but these top picks truly stand out in terms of their scent quality, complexity, throw, and longevity. Whether you’re looking to create a traditional holiday ambiance or something more unique, there’s a Bath & Body Works holiday candle that’s sure to make your home smell amazing during this special time of year. So, this holiday season, light up one of these candles and let the magic of the season fill your home with fragrance.
