Best Yankee Candle Scents – Complete Guide

As most of the people already know, Yankee Candle is the largest, most reputed candle maker company in the entire world. Their premium candles have been sold all over the world for over 40 years. But what they are really famous for is their huge range of scents. It is a real adventure to find the favorite fragrance from hundreds of style and scents.

And like many other great companies, Yankee Candle started with a very humble experience. Mike Kittredge himself describes the very beginning in a few words: “It all started in December 1969. I was sixteen, and had a big problem; just days remained before Christmas, and I was broke. While considering my options for Mom’s gift, inspiration struck. I gathered my childhood crayons and found an empty quart milk container. I melted them in a pot on the kitchen stove, poured the hot liquid into the carton and added a wick “borrowed” from a candle in our dining room. The broken bits of wax from that ill-fated dinner candle went into the milk carton as well. Several hours later, my first candle sat proudly on the kitchen table.”

One of the most famous brands in the world when it comes to candles, Yankee Candle deserves a great title in the industry. The company is easy to recognize due to their famous jars and for their flavors that are constantly changing and improving. The biggest company in the world in this industry, Yankee Candle is the Pioneers of scented candles and are still becoming bigger and bigger. It’s a real delight to burn one of their products and there’s never enough to have only one candle in the house.

Read also here for the best candles brands for more information.


Best Yankee Candle Products

Product Description
Best Pick!
Yankee Candle Elevation Collection with Platform Lid...
Yankee Candle MidSummer's Night Scented, Classic 22oz...
Yankee Candle Lilac Blossoms Scented, Classic 22oz...
Yankee Candle Large Jar Candle Sun & Sand
Yankee Candle Balsam & Cedar Scented, Classic 22oz...
Yankee Candle Salted Caramel Scented, Classic 22oz...
Preview
Yankee Candle Elevation Collection with Platform Lid...
Yankee Candle MidSummer's Night Scented, Classic 22oz...
Yankee Candle Lilac Blossoms Scented, Classic 22oz...
Yankee Candle Large Jar Candle Sun & Sand
Yankee Candle Balsam & Cedar Scented, Classic 22oz...
Yankee Candle Salted Caramel Scented, Classic 22oz...
Size
19.5 oz.
22 oz.
22 oz.
22 oz.
22 oz.
22 oz.
Burn Time
65 to 80 hours
110-150 hours
110-150 hours
110-150 hours
110-150 hours
110-150 hours
Best Pick!
Product Description
Yankee Candle Elevation Collection with Platform Lid...
Preview
Yankee Candle Elevation Collection with Platform Lid...
Size
19.5 oz.
Burn Time
65 to 80 hours
Product Description
Yankee Candle MidSummer's Night Scented, Classic 22oz...
Preview
Yankee Candle MidSummer's Night Scented, Classic 22oz...
Size
22 oz.
Burn Time
110-150 hours
Product Description
Yankee Candle Lilac Blossoms Scented, Classic 22oz...
Preview
Yankee Candle Lilac Blossoms Scented, Classic 22oz...
Size
22 oz.
Burn Time
110-150 hours
Product Description
Yankee Candle Large Jar Candle Sun & Sand
Preview
Yankee Candle Large Jar Candle Sun & Sand
Size
22 oz.
Burn Time
110-150 hours
Product Description
Yankee Candle Balsam & Cedar Scented, Classic 22oz...
Preview
Yankee Candle Balsam & Cedar Scented, Classic 22oz...
Size
22 oz.
Burn Time
110-150 hours
Product Description
Yankee Candle Salted Caramel Scented, Classic 22oz...
Preview
Yankee Candle Salted Caramel Scented, Classic 22oz...
Size
22 oz.
Burn Time
110-150 hours

History – The American Success Story

The road to success started during the Christmas of 1969. Mike Kittredge, the founder of the global establishment was sixteen-years-old when he melted some crayons to make his mother a candle. So all broke, he took a few crayons, a milk can and a wick from another candle and made all by himself a multi-colored candle.

The fortunate twist of the story was a visitor who enjoyed much the boy’s work and bought his first ever candle. So Mike did some money to buy more paraffin and made another and other candles. He starts designing and handcrafting the candles in his family’s kitchen, with his father’s help. He opens a small retail shop and in 1973 all the 12 employees of the now known Yankee Candle company move into an old paper mill in Holyoke, Mass.

While in 1974 the first scented apothecary candle jars were hitting the market, the favorite flavors were Cinnamon, Bayberry, Cranberry, and French Vanilla.

During the years, the company started growing and launching lots of memorable collections. In 2015, there were over 200 million candles that Yankee Candle produced per year.


How does Yankee Candle create the scents?

The process of creating the perfect fragrances for the future Yankee Candles is intense and takes some time. First, the company appeals to prominent international fragrance houses, which suggest about 1,500 new fragrance ideas. Then they also work with other fragrance houses and researchers who are worldwide famous for identifying big trends in perfumes, food, lifestyle, color, home decor, etc. All these factors help the company decide which fragrances should be their new trend.

For instance, the Sicilian Lemon candle was inspired by the popularity of lemon in fine fragrances. The Mediterranean home decor candle, as the name says, recreates the smell from the houses by the Mediterranean Sea. And Honey Lavender Gelato is inspired by three trends, from different areas: artisanal honey, gelato, and flowers.

And that’s not the entire process. Each scent goes then to the internal “Fragrance Committee”, which is a very special department in the company. They need to smell the candles cold and while burning to give permission and feedback.

And that’s not all. The new candles are going with the “Home Burners”– a group of employees who take the products at home, burn them and give a numerical score in a number of areas.

Besides the fragrance, which is the main concern, employees work in refining the candle’s color and label before it is eventually released.


Yankee candles

What’s so special about the Yankee Candles?

As mentioned above, the laborious process of creating the Yankee Candles make these products really special. Each detail is carefully analyzed so the final candle will be a delight for the buyer.

Over the past 40 years, Yankee Candles have made their way to the top of the candle companies. Although the candles have an uneven appearance, this is one of the special parts. This not so fancy look is due to the big amount of fragrance oil.

Yankee fans also say that the giant’s product is special due to their ability to burn evenly. Comparing with other cheap candles, these are 100% natural, meaning they are suitable for vegans, they are not tested on animals and do not contain any weird ingredient, such as animal or insect ingredients. The Yankee candles are made with paraffin wax, and their hundreds of smells suit every occasion.

All in all, the Yankee Candle company is special due to:

  • The benchmark for quality: whether is a citrus scent, a very fresh one or the very authentic fragrances, like Clean Cotton, the true scents of a Yankee Candle are a true benchmark for quality.
  • Careful testing and quality control make the master perfumers develop the best-scented candles. Each product is checked tens of time, this is why the candles are that special.
  • The fragrances are always authentic and accurate. This means that if the scent is floral, it really has to smell as good as a rose or a freesia.
  • The Yankee Candles are made in America, using the finest ingredients from all around the world. The master candlemakers still have the same rigid standards of commitment and craftsmanship from the first days of making candles all handmade.

Some of the best Yankee Candle products to consider

Yankee Candle Elevation Collection with Platform Lid...
  • Dark Berries is a rich and addictive fruity fragrance blended of lusciously...
  • This decor candle features soft corners and an updated silhouette—perfect...
  • 19.5 oz. candle burn time: 65 to 80 hours

Dark Berrier Yankee Candle, platform lid, soft decor

This candle is part of the Company Elevation Collection, meaning it has a new design and a strong fragrance. The candle has a unique and contemporary silhouette, which makes it a real decor item. The Yankee Candle gives off a gourmet scent of Dark Berries. The smooth fragrance will fill the room with a mix of blend and fresh scent, creating a very enjoyable experience.

Pros & Cons of Dark Berrier Yankee Candle, platform lid, soft decor

Best Yankee Candle Scents - Complete Guide 1

Pros

Pros
  • The candle has a Platform Lid feature that securely fits into the bottom of the glass; this way, the candle will have like a pedestal and a unified look
  • High-quality glass and minimalist lines
  • Simple design which fits every home
  • Smooth soy wax with layered fragrances
  • 2 wicks for a uniform burning

Best Yankee Candle Scents - Complete Guide 2

Cons

Cons
  • The Yankee Candle is a little pricey compared to other candle companies

Q&A

Should I burn both the wicks ones?

Yes, the 2 wicks will permit the wax to melt uniformly and to emanate more fragrance.

Do I get the platform in the picture as well?

Yes, the candle comes with the special platform lid, which serves as a very elegant and useful base.

Which are the dimensions of this Yankee Candle?

4 x 4 x 5.9 inches and 3,6 pounds.


Yankee Candle MidSummer's Night Scented, Classic 22oz...
  • An intoxicating and masculine blend of musk, patchouli, sage, and mahogany...
  • Long-lasting 110 to 150 hour burn time
  • Quality paraffin grade candle wax delivers a clear, consistent burn

Midsummer’s Night Yankee Candle, premium-grade paraffin

This large candle jar provides the perfect size for enjoying the pleasant scent as much as possible. The long burn lets the fragrance persists for a long time and the premium ingredients ensure the best quality burn.

Pros & Cons of Midsummer's Night Yankee Candle, premium-grade paraffin

Best Yankee Candle Scents - Complete Guide 1

Pros

Pros
  • The candle provides a long burn, up to 110-150 hours of burning
  • The premium paraffin-grade wax delivers a clear, consistent burn
  • The aroma is specially created to suit evening events, like dinner parties or a lazy Saturday in the comfort of your home
  • The wick has been straightened by hand so the burn will have the best quality
  • The fragrance makes the candle perfect as a masculine gift: musk, patchouli, sage, and mahogany cologne will suit any man’s tastes

Best Yankee Candle Scents - Complete Guide 2

Cons

Cons
  • The fragrance might be too strong for the sensitive ones

Q&A

What is the wick made of?

The wick is made from 100% natural fibers. This means the best burn possible for each fragrance.

What is the product’s quantity?

22 oz.

How much should the candle burn for a strong scent?

You should let it burn at least one hour for really enjoying the fragrance.


Yankee Candle Lilac Blossoms Scented, Classic 22oz...
  • This scent takes you to an alluring grove filled with lavender, white, and...
  • Long lasting 110 to 150 hour burn time
  • Quality paraffin grade candle wax delivers a clear, consistent burn

Lilac Blossoms Yankee Candle, the clear fragrance of spring in a generous jar

For those who want to bring spring in their homes, Yankee Candle has a scented candle that will fulfill their dreams. The Lilac Blossoms candle has an alluring grove filled with lavender, deep white and purple lilacs. The extensive choice of seasonal fragrances will make each burn a real delight.

Pros & Cons of Lilac Blossoms Yankee Candle, the clear fragrance of spring in a generous jar

Best Yankee Candle Scents - Complete Guide 1

Pros

Pros
  • The paraffin-grade wax delivers a clear and consistent burn
  • The candle has 110-150 hours burning time
  • The scent is achieved by using all natural essential oils from lavender, white and purple lilacs
  • The wick is obtained from natural fibers so the candle will get the best burn

Best Yankee Candle Scents - Complete Guide 2

Cons

Cons
  • Due to the large jar, some might get bored to feel the same scent for a long period of time

Q&A

Does the scent stay as strong as the very beginning?

Yes, Yankee Candle is known for its strong, unique fragrances that last a long period of time.

Is it worth buying a large jar?

It does, although it’s a little more pricey. You get lots of hours of floral fragrance and a cool glass jar you can reuse.

What are the dimensions of the candle?

The candle measures 6.6″H x 4″ D and 22 oz.


Yankee Candle Large Jar Candle Sun & Sand
  • A tropical beach breeze of sweet orange flower, lemony citrus, fresh...
  • Long-lasting 110 to 150 hour burn time
  • Quality paraffin grade candle wax delivers a clear, consistent burn

Yankee Candle Sun & Sand tropical fragrance, Large Jar 

For those who are nostalgic for the days of summer, Yankee Candle comes with a scented candle to bring back the sunny days. The Sun & Sand tropical fragrance is a combination of sweet orange flower, lemony citrus, powdery musk, and fresh lavender. Make your home feel like a house by the sea by simply burning a quality candle.

Pros & Cons of Yankee Candle Sun & Sand tropical fragrance, Large Jar

Best Yankee Candle Scents - Complete Guide 1

Pros

Pros
  • The candle has around 110-150 hours of burn time
  • The candle is 100% recyclable and accepted by most recycling centers
  • The high-quality paraffin delivers a clear and consistent burn
  • The fragrance persists for a long time in the room

Best Yankee Candle Scents - Complete Guide 2

Cons

Cons
  • The label graphics might vary

Q&A

Is the fragrance similar to the real smell of flowers and citrus?

Yes, the Yankee Candles are popular for their original, authentic fragrances.

Is it wrong if the candle has a chalky appearance?

This is a general rule for the Yankee candles. They are not so appealing due to a large number of essential oils.

Can I reuse the glass jar?

Yes, it would be perfect if everybody could do that. If you clean it, you can use the jar as a vase or a candy container/


Yankee Candle Balsam & Cedar Scented, Classic 22oz...
  • Balsam, aromatic cedar wood, and juniper berry blend together for a festive...
  • Long-lasting 110-150 hour burn time
  • Quality paraffin-grade candle wax delivers a clear, consistent burn. Top:...

Balsam & Cedar Yankee Candle, an aromatic 150 hours burning a candle

Whether you are looking for a candle to aromatize your home or a nice uni-sex gift, the balsam & cedar Yankee Candle will offer 150 hours of burning time and a perfume to remember of the good days. The scent is a mix of aromatic cedar wood, juniper berry, together with a festive forest fragrance, in a unique combination for a scented candle.

Pros & Cons of Balsam & Cedar Yankee Candle, an aromatic 150 hours burning a candle

Best Yankee Candle Scents - Complete Guide 1

Pros

Pros
  • Good quality paraffin with clear, consistent burn
  • Special top fragrances: crisp citrus, pine balsam, cedar and sandalwood
  • Uni-sex perfume, perfect as a gift for both men and women
  • Quality ingredients from all around the world

Best Yankee Candle Scents - Complete Guide 2

Cons

Cons
  • It takes some time for the scent to become strong; leave the candle burn at least 30 minutes

Q&A

How much will the scent lay?

The scent will be as powerful as at the beginning for around 120 hours.

Is it hard to relight the candle once is almost over?

The glass jar is large enough to relight the candle using a regular match.


Yankee Candle Salted Caramel Scented, Classic 22oz...
  • Sweet surrender is yours with the luscious aroma of burnt sugar, sea salt,...
  • Long-lasting 110 to 150 hour burn time
  • Quality paraffin grade candle wax delivers a clear, consistent burn

Yankee Candle Salted Caramel, a gourmet fragrance to last 150 hours

You will never forget the sweet smell of this salted caramel Yankee Candle. The fragrance is so real, that you will always feel surrounded by the luscious aroma of burnt sugar.

Pros & Cons of Yankee Candle Salted Caramel, a gourmet fragrance to last 150 hours

Best Yankee Candle Scents - Complete Guide 1

Pros

Pros
  • Sweet notes of sugar, sea salt, and smooth vanilla caramel
  • Premium-grade wax
  • Clean and consistent burn
  • Quality ingredients that offer an authentic smell

Best Yankee Candle Scents - Complete Guide 2

Cons

Cons
  • The fragrance might be too sweet for the sensitive ones


How to Make DIY Yankee Candles at Home

You can also check our review on Chesapeake Bay candle here.