Beyond the Wick: How to Use a Candle Warmer as a Simmer Pot for a Non-Toxic Home
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There is nothing quite like walking into a home that smells like a high-end boutique or a crisp fall morning. For decades, the go-to solution for home fragrance has been the scented candle. However, as we become more conscious of our indoor air quality, many of us are questioning what exactly is being released into our sanctuary when we light that match.
At House by the Preserve, we believe your home should be beautiful, but it should also be healthy. That’s why we’re sharing one of our favorite eco-friendly home hacks: using a candle warmer as a simmer pot. This method provides the same cozy vibe as a candle but uses 100% natural ingredients. In this guide, we’ll dive into the science of why you might want to switch, how to enjoy candles more mindfully, and five signature recipes to transform your home’s atmosphere.
The Hidden Reality of Scented Candles
Before we get into the how-to, let’s talk about the why. While candles are a staple in home decor, many mass-produced candles, especially budget-friendly ones, can be a significant source of indoor air pollution.
Most conventional candles are made from paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum. When burned, paraffin can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) like toluene and benzene. Furthermore, the "fragrance" listed on a candle label is often a list of synthetic chemicals, including phthalates, which are endocrine disruptors that can affect respiratory health.
The Balanced Burn: How to Enjoy Candles Mindfully
Now, don’t get me wrong—I’m not saying you have to throw away your entire candle collection today (unless you want to!). There is a unique, irreplaceable magic in a flickering flame. At House by the Preserve, we practice a conscious candle culture rather than a total ban.
If you aren't ready to give up the wick, here is how to be more intentional:
The Ventilation Rule: If you have a candle and you aren't 100% sure what it’s made from, we recommend opening a window or ensuring the room is well-ventilated while it burns to keep the air moving.
Choose Clean Bases: When shopping for new candles, look for 100% Beeswax or Soy. Beeswax is actually a natural air purifier, releasing negative ions that help neutralize pollutants, while soy provides a much cleaner, soot-free burn than petroleum-based waxes.
The Hybrid Approach: Use a simmer pot on your candle warmer for your all-day scent, and save those high-quality beeswax candles for a focused hour of evening relaxation.
Why the Candle Warmer is a Game Changer
A simmer pot (also known as stovetop potpourri) uses gentle heat to release the essential oils naturally found in fruits and herbs. By using a candle warmer instead of a stove, you get several benefits:
Safety: No open flames means you can enjoy the scent in a home office or bedroom without fire anxiety.
Low and Slow: Candle warmers maintain a consistent, low temperature, meaning your brew lasts longer without boiling dry like a stovetop pot often does.
Zero Waste: It’s a brilliant way to use up kitchen scraps, like orange peels, apple cores, or herbs that are starting to wilt, that would otherwise end up in the trash or compost.
Finishing Touch: Using a candle warmer as a simmer pot is the ultimate sensory reward after completing a deep clean, such as a 4-week cleaning challenge. While traditional cleaning products leave behind a sterile, chemical scent, the gentle heat of the warmer fills your refreshed builder-grade spaces with a yummy, lived-in aroma that lingers long after the chores are done.
Choosing Your Equipment: Plates vs. Lamps
Depending on what kind of warmer you have at home, you’ll need to adjust your setup:
Bottom-Heating Plates: These are the traditional small hot plates. Simply place a heat-safe ceramic ramekin or a small glass mason jar directly on the plate. These are best for small spaces like bathrooms.
Top-Down Candle Lamps: These use a halogen bulb to melt wax from above. Place your simmer dish on the base, and the light will warm the water while adding a beautiful, cozy amber glow to the room.
Safety Note: Always ensure your vessel is heat-safe. Ceramic, tempered glass (like a canning jar), or small cast-iron dishes are ideal. Avoid thin plastic or non-tempered glass which can crack under heat.
5 Natural Simmer Pot Recipes for Your Candle Warmer
To jump-start the scent, we recommend starting with hot or boiling water in your dish so you don't have to wait for the warmer to heat it from scratch.
Before we dive into my favorite blends, I want to remind you: don't overthink these. I often just use whatever I have on hand that I think will pair well together. For instance, I always have apples in the kitchen for my kids. If the kids don’t finish them, I’ll simply dice the remains and toss them into the warmer with some cloves or cinnamon sticks, and a splash of vanilla or almond extract.
Think of these recipes as guides rather than strict rules. Part of the joy of a slow, intentional home is the freedom to experiment and discover which scents make your space feel most like you.
1. The Preserve Morning (Bright & Uplifting)
The Base: 2 thick slices of Lemon, 1 sprig of fresh Rosemary.
The Preserve Twist: 1/2 tsp of Peppercorns.
Why: The pepper adds a subtle, sophisticated "edge" to the citrus, mimicking the complexity of a high-end $80 candle.
2. The Spiced Orchard (Warm & Nostalgic)
The Base: 1/2 Apple (sliced), 2 Cinnamon sticks.
The Preserve Twist: A splash of pure Almond Extract.
Why: While most people use vanilla, almond extract gives it a "cherry-marzipan" undertone that makes the apple scent smell like a professional French bakery.
3. The Botanical Sanctuary (Calming & Zen)
The Base: 1 tbsp Dried Lavender, 2-3 slices of Lime.
The Preserve Twist: 1 dried Bay Leaf.
Why: Bay leaves add a soft, herbal woodiness that grounds the floral lavender, preventing it from smelling too much like a soap shop.
4. The Winter Woodshop (Earthy & Grounding)
The Base: A handful of Pine needles or a small sprig of Cedar.
The Preserve Twist: Dried Grapefruit Peel.
Why: Pine can sometimes feel heavy; the bitterness of grapefruit peel cuts through the resiny wood scent for a crisp, mountain air finish.
5. The Golden Chai (Sweet & Spicy)
The Base: 3 slices of fresh Ginger, 1 Cinnamon stick, 1 tsp Cardamom pods.
The Preserve Twist: A pinch of Loose Leaf Black Tea.
Why: Adding actual tea leaves introduces a full-bodied depth that ties the spices together, making it smell like an authentic, steaming mug of chai.
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know
How long does the scent last? On a standard candle warmer, a single batch of ingredients will provide scent for about 4 to 6 hours. You can refresh the pot by adding a bit more hot or boiling water or a fresh squeeze of citrus.
Can I leave it on all day? While candle warmers are much safer than candles, we recommend turning them off if you leave the house. Also, keep an eye on the water level; if the water evaporates completely, the ingredients may scorch.
Can I reuse the ingredients? Absolutely! If you aren't done with your scent at the end of the day, pour the mixture into a jar and pop it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Final Thoughts
Transitioning to a non-toxic home doesn't mean you have to sacrifice the vibe of a fragrant house. By repurposing your candle warmer and being more intentional about the candles you do choose to light, you're creating a sanctuary that is safe for your family, your pets, and your lungs.
Which recipe are you trying first? Tag us in your photos @HouseByThePreserve!
I’m a mom of two and wife to a seriously supportive hubby, living our best life in our forever house by the preserve! I'm all about helping you create a stylish, Pinterest-worthy home on a budget. Let's obsess over interior design, home decor, DIY, and home improvement projects to help you create your best home. Follow along and say hello! I love hearing from you.
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