What Is The Best Wax Melter?
A wax melter is an appliance used to melt wax, typically scented wax, to create ambience and pleasant aromas. Wax melters heat wax gently, releasing the oils and fragrances without burning. This allows you to enjoy the scents from your favorite candles or wax without having an open flame.
Wax melters have many benefits over burning candles directly. They are safer since there is no open flame, making them ideal for homes with children or pets. The wax lasts longer in a melter as it is heated gradually. Melters also distribute fragrance more evenly than candles. You can customize scents by mixing different waxes.
When choosing the best wax melter for your needs, key factors to consider are the melter design, efficiency, ease of use and cleaning, safety features, and versatility with different wax types. This guide provides an overview of the different styles of wax melters available and reviews some of the top options to help you find the perfect fit.
How Wax Melters Work
Wax melters work by heating up wax to a temperature high enough to melt it and release its fragrance, but not high enough to actually burn the wax. The wax is placed in a chamber or dish which sits atop a low wattage heating element. As the wax heats up, it liquefies and begins to emit its aroma into the air (Devon Wick).
There are two main types of wax melter designs: warming plates and melting pots. Warming plates feature a flat heated surface onto which you place wax cubes or tarts. The warming plate gently heats the wax until it melts across the surface and releases its scent. Melting pots feature a reservoir or basin which contains the wax, heated by a small heating element underneath. The wax melts into liquid form inside the pot and diffuses its fragrance (Martha Stewart).
Both warming plates and melting pots heat wax indirectly to a temperature warm enough to melt it and disperse fragrance, but not so hot that the wax actually burns. This allows you to enjoy the scent without having an open flame or burning the wax itself (Get a Scent). The key for both is maintaining a consistent low temperature to encourage wax melting and fragrance diffusion (Cookware Stuffs).
Types of Wax Melters
There are several main types of wax melters available on the market:
Electric Wax Melters
Electric wax melters use electricity to heat a small bowl or pot and melt wax. Many electric melters have different heat settings and automatically shut off for safety. They allow you to melt wax without an open flame. Popular styles of electric melters include ceramic warmers and melters with lights or decorative designs (MMM Melts).
Candle Wax Melters
Candle wax melters are designed to melt wax using a tealight or votive candle underneath a dish. The candle heats the dish from below to melt wax. These melters are an affordable option but require you to regularly replace candles as they burn down (Twistavants).
Crock Pot Wax Melters
A crock pot or slow cooker can double as a wax melter with the addition of a pouring pot. The crock pot provides consistent heat to melt wax in bulk. This is a budget-friendly option for melting large amounts of wax at once.
Other Wax Melter Types
Other melter styles include lamp ring melters, light bulb melters that fit over bulbs, and mini melter pots designed for tea lights. The variety of melters provides options for individual needs and preferences.
Features to Look for
When shopping for a wax melter, there are several key features to consider that impact performance, safety, and convenience:
Auto Shut Off – This safety feature automatically shuts the melter off after a certain time period in case you forget. Look for adjustable auto shut off times up to 4-6 hours.1
Multiple Warmers – Having multiple warmers or dishes allows you to melt different scents at once or in sequence. Dual and triple warmers are common.
Adjustable Temperature – The ability to adjust the temperature gives you more control over the melt rate. Look for multiple settings from low to high.
Timer – A programmable timer lets you set the melter to turn on and off automatically. Helpful if you want the scent going at certain times of day.
Large Capacity – Look for generous capacity bowls or crockpots that can hold multiple candles or wax cubes at once.
Other considerations are an indicator light, thoughtful design to conceal cords, and being easy to clean and maintain.2
Best Electric Melters
Electric wax melters provide a convenient hands-off way to fill your home with delicious scents. Electric melters plug into an outlet and gently heat wax tarts, melting the wax and releasing fragrance. Many electric warmers feature multiple wax warming plates for melting several tarts at once or alternating scents easily. These are great options if you want a set-it-and-forget-it wax melting system.
Some top picks for best electric wax warmers based on reviews and performance include:
- Scentsy Electric Wax Warmer – Scentsy is the leading brand in electric warmers. Their stylish designs come in many colors and integrate seamlessly into home decor. Scentsy warmers melt Scentsy wax bars perfectly and consistently.
- Yankee Candle Electric Tart Warmer – For those who love Yankee Candle, their electric warmers allow you to experience Yankee fragrances in wax tart form. These reliable warmers have adjustable settings.
- Sensaria Electric Wax Melter – Sensaria offers an affordable yet quality electric melter with two warming plates. Its sleek, neutral design looks great anywhere.
- InnoGear Electric Wax Warmer – With two plates and adjustable temperature settings, this affordable option consistently receives rave reviews for performance.
The top electric warmers provide stylish, functional, and safe wax melting for hours of home fragrance enjoyment. Their reasonable prices and versatile designs make it easy to find one to suit your decor.
Best Candle Melters
Candle melters are a popular option for melting wax thanks to their simplicity and affordability. When shopping for the best candle melter, there are a few key features to look for:
Type of Melter – Candle melters come in electric and non-electric versions. Electric melters plug in and provide constant heat, while non-electric options like tea light melters rely on the candle flame to melt wax.
Wax Capacity – Consider how much wax you want to melt at a time. Small tea light melters hold 4-6 ounces, while larger electric melters may hold up to 1-2 pounds.
Design – Look for melters with a wide opening to easily add and remove wax. Tea light melters with vented lids allow fragrance to escape. Electric melters may have multiple temperature settings.
Popular affordable candle melter options include the Yankee Candle Wax Melter (https://www.etsy.com/ca/market/stainless_steel_wax_melter) and the Scentsy Mini Warmer (https://www.pinterest.com/ideas/candle-wax-melter/922306875666/). Higher end electric candle melters like the Chesapeake Bay Ceramic Wax Melter (https://www.etsy.com/market/wax_melter_for_candle_making) offer large capacity, adjustable temperature, and stylish design.
When investing in a quality candle wax melter, be sure to match the capacity and features to your specific needs. Well-reviewed melters from reputable brands provide excellent performance at reasonable prices.
Best Crock Pot Melters
Crock pots or slow cookers are a popular choice for melting wax due to their low and controllable heat. When selecting a crock pot for wax melting, here are some top models to consider based on size, features, and ratings:
The Crock-Pot 6-Quart Programmable Cook & Carry Slow Cooker (SCCPVL610-S) is a top rated 6-quart option perfect for medium batches of wax. It has a programmable timer and auto warm function (https://www.howtomakecandles.info/article/2041/melting_equipment_the_slow_cooker).
For larger batches, the Crock-Pot Manual Slow Cooker 10 Quart (SCCPVL600S) is a 10 quart cooker with simple manual controls. The removable stoneware insert makes cleaning easy (https://www.beesource.com/threads/crock-pot-for-wax-melting.287821/).
The highly rated Crock-Pot 7 Quart Slow Cooker (SCR700-B) is a mid-range 7 quart size with black stainless steel exterior. It heats evenly and consistently for reliable wax melting (https://www.reddit.com/r/candlemaking/comments/x4hz0o/crock_pot_to_melt_wax/).
Be sure to monitor the temperature and filling levels when using any crock pot. Consider lining with a pouring pitcher for easy wax transfer.
Safety Tips
Wax melters are generally considered quite safe to use, but there are still some precautions you should take. Here are some tips for using your wax melter safely:
– Always place your wax melter on a stable, level surface. Don’t put it somewhere it could easily be knocked over. A study showed tipping over as a common cause of accidents.
– Keep your melter away from things that could catch fire like curtains or drapes. Leave adequate space around the unit. According to safety videos, at least 12 inches is recommended.
– Don’t touch the hot surface of the melter. Allow it to fully cool before handling to avoid burns. Some models can reach temps of up to 200°F.
– Unplug your wax melter when not in use and before cleaning. Wipe up any spilled wax to avoid the buildup of flammable materials.
– Inspect electrical cords for damage before each use. Discard any unit with frayed or exposed wires, which can create a fire hazard. You can attempt repairs or replace if damaged.
– Never leave a wax melter unattended when turned on. Keep out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental contact and burns.
Maintenance
Properly maintaining your wax melter is essential for keeping it in good working order and ensuring longevity. Here are some tips for cleaning and caring for your wax melter:
Remove wax buildup regularly. Allowing wax to accumulate in your melter can clog vents or heating elements. Carefully wipe away any built-up wax after each use with a paper towel. For stubborn buildup, you may need a degreasing cleanser.
Clean the dish/reservoir. The wax dish collects fragrance oils and dust. Wash it with dish soap and water after each use. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Replace filters if needed. Some electric melters have replaceable filters to trap dust and particles. Check filters occasionally and replace per manufacturer instructions.
Let components cool before cleaning. Always allow the melter to cool completely before wiping or washing to avoid burns.
Use a damp cloth to dust the exterior. Wipe down the outside of your melter regularly with a soft, damp cloth to keep the surface clean.
Do not submerge electric melters in water. Take care not to get the electrical components wet when cleaning.
Store melter safely when not in use. Keep your melter in a dry, room temperature area when storing between uses.
Following this basic melter maintenance routine will help keep your unit performing optimally for many years of service.
Conclusion
When shopping for the best wax melter for your home, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Types of wax – Make sure the melter you choose can accommodate the types of wax you plan to use, whether soy, paraffin, beeswax etc.
- Melting capacity – Consider the size of the room or area you want to scent and choose a melter with an appropriate melting capacity.
- Safety features – Look for melters with auto shut-off, non-slip bases, and handles that stay cool.
- Ease of use – Opt for a melter that’s easy to operate, clean, and refill.
- Aesthetics – Pick a melter that fits your style – electric, candle, crockpot etc.
By keeping these key factors in mind and selecting the melter that best fits your needs, you’re sure to find one that will effectively scent your space safely and conveniently.
