Using a tea light wax warmer is a simple way to fill your space with fragrance using wax melts. It involves placing a wax melt in the top dish and heating it from below with a small candle.
Understanding Your Tea Light Wax Warmer
A tea light wax warmer, also known as a wax melt warmer or oil burner, typically has two main parts:
- The Dish/Bowl: Located at the top, this is where you place your wax melt or fragrance oil.
- The Base/Cavity: Located underneath the dish, this area is designed to hold a small tea light candle.
The heat from the lit tea light candle rises and warms the dish, causing the wax melt to liquify and release its fragrance into the air.
Steps for Using a Tea Light Wax Warmer
Using a tea light wax warmer is straightforward. Here's a simple guide:
- Gather Your Supplies: You will need your tea light wax warmer, a wax melt or cube, and a standard tea light candle.
- Place the Wax Melt: Put one or more wax melts (usually 1-2 cubes depending on the size of the dish) into the top dish of the warmer. Do not add water.
- Insert and Light the Tea Light: Light your tealight and place it in the bottom of your melterer. Ensure the tea light is placed squarely in the designated cavity in the base of the warmer.
- Enjoy the Fragrance: As the tea light burns, the heat will melt the wax in the dish. The melting wax releases its fragrance, scenting the room.
- Monitor and Extinguish: Keep an eye on the burning tea light. Always extinguish the flame before leaving the room or going to sleep. Let the wax cool and solidify before moving the warmer.
Tips for Safe and Effective Use
- Placement: Always place your wax warmer on a stable, heat-resistant surface away from drafts, curtains, pets, and children.
- Ventilation: Use in a well-ventilated area, but avoid direct drafts that can make the flame flicker excessively.
- Never Leave Unattended: Just like any open flame, never leave a lit tea light wax warmer unattended.
- Replacing Wax: To change fragrances, allow the wax to cool and harden. You can then gently warm it for a minute or two to slightly loosen it, or carefully scrape it out when solid. Dispose of the old wax properly (e.g., in the trash, not down the drain).
- Cleaning: Periodically clean the dish with warm, soapy water after removing the old wax.
Comparing Tea Light vs. Electric Warmers
While both tea light and electric wax warmers serve the same purpose, they differ in their heat source:
| Feature | Tea Light Wax Warmer | Electric Wax Warmer |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Source | Open flame (tea light candle) | Electric heating element/bulb |
| Power | No electricity needed | Requires an electrical outlet |
| Control | Cannot regulate temperature easily | Often have on/off switch, sometimes timers |
| Portability | Highly portable (no cord) | Limited by cord length/outlet location |
| Safety | Involves an open flame, requires care | Generally considered safer due to no open flame |
Using a tea light warmer offers a traditional method to enjoy wax melts, relying on the simple heat of a candle flame to release scent.
