What is the difference between hot and cold scent throw?

Before starting our business, we did a lot of research into scent throw. We were adamant that out wax melts would of course smell amazing in your wax burner, but we knew we were about to create visually beautiful products, meaning they might not get burnt straight away... so we knew they had to smell good out on your shelf. Here is what we found. 

When choosing wax melts, one of the key factors to consider is the quality of both cold and hot scent throw. Cold scent throw refers to the fragrance that is noticeable before the wax is heated, while hot scent throw is the rich, full aroma released once the wax melts. A great wax melt will offer a strong cold throw that invites you into the fragrance from the moment you open the package, and a powerful hot throw that fills your space with long-lasting, vibrant scent when heated. We knew that our wax melts might sometimes be too wonderful to burn straight away so we experimented with cold throw so that our customers could display them on a shelf and still be able to smell them. We also created scented tree decorations for Christmas when we got our cold scent throw just right!

Cold throw

Unlike candles, which require a flame to release their scent, wax melts emit fragrance through the evaporation of oils present in the wax, even in its solid form. The cold throw is typically more subtle compared to the hot throw (which occurs when the wax is warmed), but a strong cold scent throw can be an indicator of high-quality wax melts. The scent you experience before melting can offer a preview of how the fragrance will behave once the wax is heated, and most premium wax melts can fill a room with a detectable scent simply by being in the open air. Factors like the type of wax used (soy, blend), the concentration and quality of fragrance oils, and the design of the melt itself all influence how effectively it releases fragrance in its cold state.

Wax melts with a robust cold scent throw often use high-quality, highly concentrated fragrance oils that diffuse easily through the wax. Additionally, the size and shape of the wax melt can impact how much fragrance is exposed to the air. For example, a larger or more porous melt may release more scent at room temperature than a smaller or more compact one. While cold throw is generally more subtle in wax melts compared to their heated aroma, some well-crafted melts can still offer an inviting fragrance in the cold state, enhancing the overall experience and making them desirable even before they are placed in a burner. For enthusiasts who enjoy having their space filled with a pleasant fragrance at all times—whether or not the burner is on—wax melts with a strong cold scent throw provide a satisfying, immediate aromatic presence.

Hot Throw

Hot scent throw in wax melts refers to the strength and diffusion of fragrance when the wax is heated in your burner. Unlike the cold throw, the hot throw is the full expression of the fragrance oils as the wax melts and evaporates into the air. When the wax reaches a certain temperature, it releases its scent more intensely, filling the room with an aromatic presence that can range from subtle to overpowering, depending on the quality of the melt and the concentration of fragrance oils. The hot throw is the most anticipated part of using wax melts, as it is when the full potential of the fragrance is exposed, transforming the atmosphere of a space with its scent. A strong hot throw can significantly influence the ambiance, creating a welcoming, soothing, or energising environment, depending on the type of fragrance chosen.

The intensity of the hot scent throw is influenced by several factors, including the type of wax, the fragrance oils used, and the design of the melt. We conduced a lot of testing into waxes and fragrances until we found the right balance. High-quality waxes like soy or blends tend to hold fragrance well and melt evenly, ensuring that the scent is consistently released when heated. Additionally, the fragrance oil concentration plays a key role. Higher-quality melts typically contain a higher percentage of fragrance oil, leading to a more robust hot throw. The size and shape of the wax melt also affect how quickly and evenly the scent is released—larger or more intricate melts may take longer to melt but can provide a more gradual and sustained hot throw. A strong hot throw is a great indicator of well-crafted wax melts, as it ensures that the fragrance fills the space effectively and lasts for an extended period, making the experience of using the melt more enjoyable and rewarding.

Fragrance percentage

At Shelfaware, we spent a lot of time testing fragrance percentages to see what would work best for us. A good fragrance oil percentage for wax melts typically ranges between 6% to 10% of the total wax weight. This percentage ensures a well-balanced scent throw without overwhelming the wax or causing issues with the wax’s consistency or how well it melts. Staying within this 6%-10% range provides a balance between impressive scent throw and the longevity and quality of the wax melt, ensuring a well-rounded, effective product. We decided to use a 10% percentage to offer you truly premium scent and products.