Incense vs. Candle: Which Is Right for Your Home?

In a world where everyone’s looking for a little zen, the popularity of home aromatherapy is skyrocketing. Incense and candles are the aromatic assistance you need in your home, but which one deserves the honor of lining your counter space? Determine if incense or candles are right for your home and how each makes your living space feel like a sanctuary.

Health and Safety

Regarding health and safety, incense and candles have various quirks. Incense fills your home with a soothing aroma and releases particulates that may lower your air quality. The aromatic biotic material that burns creates a heavier smell that may make breathing harder when near an incense holder.

Candles, however, pose a fire hazard—especially if your children or furry friends decide to knock them over. The potential allergens in scented candles may cause trouble for your sinuses.

Aesthetic and Mood Enhancement

The aesthetic appeal and mood-enhancing properties of incense and candles are undeniable. Lighting a candle turns your chaotic home into a serene oasis, setting the mood for a relaxing ambience with dim light.

With its mystical smoke trails, incense makes you feel like you’re in a spa, even if you’re hiding from your kids in the bathroom. Both options boost relaxation and focus, but which sets the perfect vibe for you depends on your taste.

Practicality and Convenience

Regarding practicality, candles are pretty straightforward—light them up and enjoy. On the other hand, incense requires some finesse. You’ll need an incense holder and a heat-resistant dish that prevents the ashes from starting a fire that ruins the relaxing mood.

Plus, candles are in many local stores, making them easy to find. Many of these candles smell great and include numerous tropical scents to try in your home, such as mango or strawberry.

Incense generally offers sticks by the bundle, giving you more for your purchase. Like candles, incense is available in department stores, but there may not be as many options. Fortunately, many cities have stores that specifically sell incense. Consider how much effort you will invest in your quest for aroma nirvana.

Eco-Friendliness

For the eco-conscious parent, the impact on Mother Earth might sway your decision. Candles often contain paraffin, a petroleum byproduct that’s not bio-degradable and releases toxins when burned. However, soy and beeswax alternatives have a similar effect of making the area smell great while causing less harm to the environment.

Incense contains unnatural and natural materials. Both have environmental footprints, so think about what aligns with your values.

Deciding between candles and incense for your home requires you to consider the structure and values of your household. Whether you’re a fan of the flickering candlelight or the swirling incense smoke, it’s about creating a space that feels right for you. Experiment with different scents and sizes to determine which fits your home best.