Do They Make Gain Wax Melts?
What Are Wax Melts?
Wax melts are scented wax cubes or blocks that are warmed to release fragrance. They are made from wax such as soy, paraffin, or a blend, and scented with essential oils or fragrance oils. Unlike candles, wax melts do not have a wick and do not require an open flame to release their scent.
The history of wax melts dates back to the early 1990s when crafters realized they could make fragrant blocks of wax without a wick. The scented wax could simply be placed in a warmer to melt and fill a room with fragrance (Vita Mia Lifestyle). This made wax melts a safer and more versatile option than burning candles.
Wax melts grew in popularity throughout the 1990s and 2000s as more crafters and companies began producing them. The lack of a wick and flame made them an appealing option for scenting the home. Wax warmers also became more widely available, providing an easy way to melt the wax.
Today, wax melts are sold by many retailers and used in homes and businesses around the world. Their simple, flameless, customizable fragrance makes them a staple for scenting spaces of all kinds.
Popularity of Wax Melts
Wax melts have become increasingly popular over the past decade. According to a report by Data Bridge Market Research, the global wax melts market was valued at USD 2.84 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach USD 4.26 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 5.21% over that period (source). Another report by LinkedIn indicates the wax melts market size was valued at USD 2.69 billion in 2021, with a projected CAGR of 5.11% from 2022 to 2030 (source).
The growth in the wax melts market is driven by increasing consumer preference for home fragrances and aromatherapy. Wax melts are an affordable and customizable way to scent the home compared to candles. Their popularity has steadily risen as more consumers discover their benefits and convenience.
Sales of wax melts have seen particular growth in Europe and North America. Key vendors are responding to the rising demand by expanding production capacities and product ranges. The market is expected to continue its upward growth trajectory over the coming years.
Types of Wax Used
There are several types of wax commonly used to make wax melts.
Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax is a byproduct of petroleum refining. It is odorless and colorless. Paraffin wax is the most commonly used wax for wax melts because it is inexpensive and has a low melting point. However, some avoid paraffin wax because it is derived from petroleum.
Soy Wax
Soy wax is made from hydrogenated soybean oil. It is a natural, renewable resource. Soy wax has a higher melting point than paraffin, so soy wax melts typically last a bit longer. Soy wax is also biodegradable.
Beeswax
Beeswax is made by honey bees. It has a pleasant natural honey scent. Beeswax has a high melting temperature so beads last longer. However, beeswax is one of the more expensive wax options.
Palm Wax
Palm wax comes from the fruit of palm trees. It is semi-transparent, hard, and brittle. Palm wax melts slowly and evenly. However, there are environmental concerns around palm oil harvesting.
Coconut Wax
Coconut wax comes from coconut oil. It has a high melting point and holds fragrance well. Coconut wax also contains natural antioxidants. However, it is one of the more expensive wax options.
Scent Options
There is a huge variety of scents available for wax melts. Some of the most popular scent categories include:
Floral
Floral scents like jasmine, rose, lavender, and lilac are soothing and pleasant. They can help create a relaxing environment.
Food/Bakery
Scents like vanilla, sugar cookie, and apple pie evoke memories of fresh baked goods. These sweet scents are nostalgic and comforting.
Seasonal
Seasonal scents like pine, peppermint, and pumpkin spice reflect the time of year. They can excite the senses and remind people of holidays and changing seasons.
Fruity
Fruity scents such as citrus, berry, mango, and peach are uplifting and energizing. They provide a refreshing pick-me-up.
Spa/Wellness
Scents like eucalyptus, cedarwood, and lemongrass can promote relaxation. These aromas are reminiscent of spas and are soothing.
With so many options, there are wax melt scents to suit any mood or preference.
Gain Scent Wax Melts
The Gain scent, known for its fresh and invigorating fragrance, has been popular in laundry products since it was first introduced by Procter & Gamble in the 1960s. Over the decades, the distinct citrus and floral scent has become one of the most recognizable and beloved laundry scents on the market.
In recent years, the popularity of Gain scent has expanded beyond laundry detergent to home fragrance products like candles and wax melts. Brands like Febreze and Glade have started offering wax melt products in the signature Gain scent to allow consumers to fill their homes with the refreshing laundry-fresh aroma.
Gain scent wax melts are now widely available at major retailers that sell home fragrance products. Brands like Febreze and Glade sell Gain scent wax melt packs at grocery stores like Kroger, Harris Teeter, and H-E-B, which consumers have noted carry the products consistently in stock (Kroger). The popularity and availability of Gain scent wax melts allows consumers to easily infuse their living spaces with the crisp, clean fragrance they know and love.
Benefits of Gain Scent
The Gain brand has become closely associated with fresh, clean laundry through decades of effective marketing and proven cleaning performance. The classic Gain scent, known as Original Fresh, offers a floral, powdery aroma that many consumers find pleasant, nostalgic, and refreshing.
Studies show certain scents, like the familiar Gain smell, can trigger positive emotions and memories in the brain (Original Gain Scent). There is a comforting familiarity for those who grew up with parents using Gain detergent and dryer sheets. The scent provides a subconscious cue the laundry is clean and fresh.
Gain uses a proprietary blend of scents and aromachemicals to create their distinctive fragrance formulas. While the exact recipes are kept secret, notes like apple, jasmine, rose, and vanilla make up the Gain scent profile most consumers would recognize.
Where to Buy Gain Scent Wax Melts
Gain scented wax melts can be purchased both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. Here are some of the top places to find Gain wax melts:
Online:
- Amazon – Amazon carries a wide selection of Gain scented wax melts from brands like Scentsy, Yankee Candle, and Walmart.
- Etsy – Many Etsy sellers offer handmade Gain dupes and custom Gain scented wax melts.
- Walmart – Walmart.com has an assortment of Mainstays brand Gain scented wax melts.
- eBay – Search eBay for both new and used Gain wax melts.
Brick-and-Mortar Stores:
- Walmart – Check the home fragrance section for Mainstays Gain melts.
- Dollar General – Dollar General often stocks Gain scented melts under their home fragrance brand.
- Craft Stores – Stores like Michael’s and Hobby Lobby sell wax melt supplies to make your own.
For the widest selection of scents, shopping online through Amazon, Etsy, and eBay is your best bet. Brick-and-mortar stores may have a more limited selection.
How to Use Wax Melts
Wax melts are designed to melt slowly over low heat to release their aroma. There are a few ways you can melt wax melts to experience the scent:
Wax Warmer: This is the most common way to use wax melts. Place the melt in a ceramic or electric wax warmer, following the manufacturer’s instructions for melting. Electric warmers provide a consistent low heat that gradually melts the wax.[1]
Candle Warmer: You can place a wax melt on top of a jar candle to melt it. The heat from the candle will slowly diffuse the scent. Make sure the candle flame does not directly touch the wax melt. [2]
Oil Burner: An oil burner provides a gentle heat that melts wax. Place the wax melt in the oil burner dish. When the wax melt starts melting, the fragrance will spread through the room. Avoid high heat to prevent burning the wax.[1]
The wax melt should melt slowly over 2-4 hours. One melt should scent a medium to large room. Never leave melting wax unattended. Allow the wax to fully pool before adding another cube. Enjoy your wax melt fragrance!
Safety Considerations
While wax melts are generally safe when used properly, there are some safety precautions to keep in mind.
It’s important to use an appropriate wax melter or warmer approved for wax melts. Do not burn a wax melt directly or use makeshift devices that could lead to a fire hazard (Wax Melts Safety Guidelines – all you need to know). Make sure your wax melter is on a heat-safe surface.
Never leave a hot wax melt or wax burner unattended. Most experts recommend not leaving a wax melt burner on for more than 4 hours at a time (Wax Melt Safety – Vegan Candle | elevò home). Allow the wax to fully pool before blowing out the candle or turning off the warmer.
Proper ventilation is key – do not use wax melts in an unventilated area. The fragrance can be overwhelming in a small enclosed room.
Keep wax melts and warmers out of reach of children and pets to avoid accidental burns. Supervise children around lit wax warmers.
Always blow out a candle before the wax pool reaches the edges. Never pour hot wax down drains where it can clog pipes.
Follow all usage instructions from the manufacturer or seller to use wax melts safely and properly.
Wax Melt Alternatives
For those looking to avoid wax melts, there are some great alternative options to fragrance your home. Many people turn to candles as an alternative to wax melts. Candles come in a wide variety of scents, just like wax melts. The candle flame helps disperse the fragrance throughout the room. Be sure to blow out candles before leaving a room unattended for safety. Essential oils are another popular wax melt alternative. Add a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser or oil burner to fill a room with fragrance. You can create custom scented oil blends by mixing different essential oils together. Room sprays are easy to use – just give them a shake and spritz the air. Look for room spray fragrances you enjoy or make your own with essential oils and water. With all wax melt alternatives, be mindful that some individuals may be sensitive to certain fragrances. Avoid overpowering scents and never use fragrance around those with breathing issues or allergies.
