Draft:Wax Melts

Wax melts, also known as wax tarts, wax cubes, or wax chips, are fragrant wax pieces that are melted to release their scent. Unlike traditional candles, wax melts do not have a wick and are melted using a warmer. These warmers can be electric or use a tea light candle to heat the wax.

History
The use of wax melts can be traced back to the early 20th century when they were initially used to make use of leftover wax from candle making. Over time, wax melts have evolved and gained popularity as an alternative to traditional candles, primarily due to their convenience and variety of scents.

Composition
Wax melts are typically made from a blend of waxes, fragrances, and dyes. The most common types of waxes used include:


 * 1) Paraffin Wax: A petroleum-based wax that is widely used due to its cost-effectiveness and ability to hold a high fragrance load.
 * 2) Soy Wax: A natural, biodegradable wax made from soybeans, known for its cleaner burn and longer-lasting scent.
 * 3) Beeswax: A natural wax produced by honeybees, valued for its natural scent and eco-friendly properties.
 * 4) Palm Wax: Derived from palm oil, known for its hardness and ability to hold intricate shapes and patterns.

The fragrance in wax melts is usually a combination of natural essential oils and synthetic fragrance oils, allowing for a wide variety of scents.

Usage
Wax melts are used with a warmer, which heats the wax to release its fragrance. There are two main types of warmers:


 * 1) Electric Warmers: These warmers use an electric heating element to melt the wax. They are popular for their convenience and safety features, as they do not require an open flame.
 * 2) Tea Light Warmers: These warmers use a small tea light candle placed underneath a dish holding the wax. The heat from the candle melts the wax, releasing the fragrance.

To use wax melts, a piece of the wax is placed in the warmer's dish, and the warmer is turned on or the tea light candle is lit. As the wax melts, it releases fragrance into the air. Once the scent fades, the used wax can be removed and replaced with a new piece.

Benefits
Wax melts offer several advantages over traditional candles:


 * 1) Safety: Without an open flame, wax melts are considered safer, especially in households with children or pets.
 * 2) Customisability: Users can mix different wax melts to create unique fragrance combinations.
 * 3) Long-Lasting: Wax melts can often last longer than candles, as they release fragrance over a longer period when used intermittently.
 * 4) Variety: Wax melts come in a wide range of scents, allowing users to easily switch fragrances without committing to a large candle.

Environmental Impact
The environmental impact of wax melts depends on the type of wax used. Soy and beeswax melts are generally considered more eco-friendly compared to paraffin wax, which is derived from petroleum. Additionally, some manufacturers are now focusing on sustainable practices, using recycled or biodegradable packaging.

In recent years, there has been an increased interest in using natural and sustainable ingredients in wax melts. For instance, soy wax is favoured not only for its renewable nature but also for its ability to produce a cleaner burn, reducing the emission of potentially harmful chemicals into the air. Beeswax, while more expensive, is praised for its natural air-purifying properties. Moreover, the packaging of wax melts is increasingly made from recyclable or biodegradable materials, aligning with the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products​ (Grand View Research)​​ (Home | USD Analytics)​.

Popular Brands
Several brands are known for producing high-quality wax melts, including:


 * 1) Scentsy
 * 2) Yankee Candle
 * 3) Willow House
 * 4) Glade

These brands offer a variety of fragrances and warmer designs, catering to different preferences and needs. Additionally, boutique brands and independent artisans often produce unique, handcrafted wax melts, contributing to a diverse market with a broad range of options.

DIY Wax Melts
Making wax melts at home has become a popular hobby. The process involves melting the wax, adding fragrance oils and dyes, and pouring the mixture into moulds to set. This allows individuals to create custom scents and shapes. Commonly used moulds include silicone moulds, which come in various shapes and sizes, making the DIY process not only creative but also highly customisable.

DIY enthusiasts often experiment with different waxes, essential oils, and colourants to create unique combinations. The process typically involves the following steps:


 * 1) Melting the Wax: Using a double boiler or a microwave-safe container, the wax is melted until it reaches a liquid state.
 * 2) Adding Fragrance and Colour: Fragrance oils and colourants are added to the melted wax and thoroughly mixed.
 * 3) Pouring into Moulds: The mixture is then poured into moulds and allowed to cool and harden.
 * 4) Unmoulding and Usage: Once hardened, the wax melts are removed from the moulds and are ready for use in a warmer.

DIY wax melts not only provide a cost-effective way to enjoy home fragrances but also allow for personal creativity and experimentation.

Comparison to Other Home Fragrance Methods
Wax melts are part of a broader category of home fragrance products, which includes candles, reed diffusers, and essential oil diffusers. Each method has its own set of advantages and drawbacks:


 * 1) Candles: Provide ambiance with their flame but pose a higher safety risk and often have a shorter lifespan compared to wax melts.
 * 2) Reed Diffusers: Offer continuous fragrance without the need for heat but may not provide as strong a scent throw as wax melts or candles.
 * 3) Essential Oil Diffusers: Use ultrasonic technology or heat to disperse essential oils into the air, offering therapeutic benefits but typically at a higher cost.

Conclusion
Wax melts provide a versatile and convenient way to enjoy fragrances in the home. Their ease of use, safety, and variety make them a popular choice for many people. As the market for home fragrances continues to grow, wax melts are likely to remain a staple in households around the world.