Aromatherapy candles suit the quiet hour before bed. A flame can make a room feel calm and the day feel finished. But the candle should be out before you sleep. Here is how to plan your evening, which scents to light when, and what research says about scent and sleep.
Aromatherapy Candles and the Wind-Down Hour
The Sleep Foundation says smell and sleep affect each other. Our sense of smell is weaker at night. It says lavender has the most research behind it.
It is also careful. It calls much of the research early, and says there is no agreement on the best scent. It also says scent will not make up for too little sleep. So we will not promise a candle helps you sleep. Many people do find a regular evening ritual relaxing.
Which scents feel alerting?
The same page links coffee, rosemary, peppermint and sage to alertness. Save zesty scents for tidying up and cooking. Keep the softer ones for the end of the day. This is a Glow suggestion, not a medical rule.
Pick Your Scent by the Hour
Think of the evening in two parts. In the early evening, a bright scent can lift the mood while you tidy. Fresh scents work well here. Citrus Nectar is a mix of grapefruit and spearmint.
Later, switch to something rounder. The Exotic range has warm, woody scents. Small scented tea lights are handy, because you can light one for a short wind-down.
A simple plan:
- Early evening: light a fresh scent while you tidy.
- Later: swap to a softer, warmer scent.
- Before bed: blow it out and check it.
Blow It Out Before You Sleep
This is the one rule that matters most. Fire and Rescue NSW says never leave candles unattended, and to put them out before going to bed. Keep them away from curtains and on a secure base. Trim the wick before each burn, and keep lighters out of children's reach. Make blowing it out part of your routine, just like locking the door.
A snuffer or a good lighter makes the routine easier. See our candle care tools. Want scent in the bedroom without a flame? Try fragrance sticks.
Quick answers
Are scented candles safe to burn overnight?
No. Fire and Rescue NSW says to put candles out before bed and never leave them unattended. Light yours in the evening, then blow it out before you sleep.
What is the best scent to relax in the evening?
The best scent is one you enjoy. The Sleep Foundation lists lavender, jasmine and cedar among scents with some research behind them, though it calls that research early.
If a slower evening sounds good, have a look at the Fresh range for the early hours and the Exotic range for later. Light it, enjoy it, and blow it out before bed.
Related reading
- Scented Candles: Five Safe Habits For A Cosy Night In: five simple habits that keep a night in safe.
- Musk Candle: A Soft Base Note For A Slow Night At Home: a softer scent for the end of the day.
- Great Smelling Candles Aren't Always The Heavy Ones: why a lighter scent can suit the evening.
