When the leaves start to change and the air begins to get crisper it can only mean one thing… Fall is upon us! Thus, it’s the time to commence your annual Gilmore Girls rewatch and reignite your candles – literally!
If you’re unsure where to begin with the autumnal scents, we got you handled! In this Rent. article we’ll cover the best scents for this fall ranging from sweet to woodsy, and everything in between. Whether you’re looking for the perfect pumpkin spice scent for your rental home in Hillsboro, OR or want your Denver, CO apartment’s fragrance to be fresh fallen leaves, you’re sure to find the perfect autumnal aroma for your space.
Setting the vibe
The power of smell is not one to turn your nose up on! Scent is essential for setting the mood, or the vibe of the space. This first section will cover aromas to best set the autumnal atmosphere in three distinct divisions: warmth, positivity, and comfort.
Warm smells
When the temperature drops, not only is a burning candle helpful for warming up a space physically, but did you know they can also help do so emotionally? Effing Candle Co.’s “Warm Hugs” candle “will give your home all the cozy vibes and, when lit, the crackling wooden wick sounds like a tiny fireplace,” says the women-owned candle company’s founder Birdie Hansen. With “notes of white tea, almond milk, vanilla, and amber,” this scent lives up to its name to truly evoke the feeling of a warm hug. Want to candle to last longer? With wooden wick candles, Birdie suggests trimming away the charred bits of the wick before every burn using either a wick trimmer or nail clippers.
If you’re in your feels this autumn, EMO Candles recommends their “Leave Me Alone” which is like giving yourself a cozy hug. “The spicy scent of cinnamon combined with the sweet, crisp aroma of apples, cardamom, and earthy, warm cedar instantly evokes memories of fall days spent at the apple orchard,” describes owner and founder Erin Morrison. “It not only creates a calming and nostalgic atmosphere in your home, but it adds a touch of seasonal charm to your décor,” adds Erin.
Scents for positive intentions
Candles can also be used to set intentions and the mood for the whole season, not just the home. Innerfyre Co.’s “I AM BLESSED” affirmation candle blends tangerine, clove, and cinnamon essential oils which not only captures essence of fall, but also promotes a sense of gratitude and abundance. “Infused with aventurine crystals to attract success, it’s more than just a fragrance—it’s a celebration of the blessings that surround us,” says marketing and partnerships manager Cristina Torres. On a more personal note, its soft and citrus aroma reminds her to be grateful for the small joys of the season, even when it's not Thanksgiving time.
Mounne founder Olamide and Britney-kay recommend their captivating and enchanting fall fragrance, “Aja.” Named as a tribute to the southwestern forest goddess of healing, known for her nurturing and restorative powers, this “connection to the divine adds an element of mysticism and reverence to the fragrance, making it not just a scent, but an experience that resonates with the soul,” explains Olamide and Britney-kay. The smell itself is a harmonious balance of both sweet and spicy notes which create a sense of warmth and mystery. The subtle floral notes act to make the fragrance both bold and delicate as well. Crafted with golden essence of honey amber, Senegalese ginger, and the essence of Selim, this candle “provides a unique character, being both woodsy and musky with a hint of smokiness.”
Comforting aromas
If you’re like many of us, the colder weather means more time indoors, and what better way to create the perfect atmosphere than with a candle (or multiple).
To create a comforting atmosphere, ZuZu Candle’s “Smells Like Home” candle is “an ideal choice for anyone looking to embrace the essence of fall,” says founder Erika Tames. “Inspired by the traditional wassail or mulled cider…this delightful soy candle fills your home with a warm and inviting blend of orange, lemon, apple cider, and cranberry, evoking nostalgic memories of cozy autumn days,” says Erika. The rich and fruity aroma is sure to make your space ultra comforting this fall season.
If you find spicier scents more comforting, Bright Black Candles’ “Addis Ababa” is a comforting scent to “ transport [you] to warm places and make [you] forget the chill in the air outside,” claims CEO Tiffany Griffin. “With scent notes of frankincense, myrrh, milk, and honey, [this] candle is like a gentle, soothing hug in the middle of the year's coldest season,” says Tiffany.
If being reminded of “your grandmother pulling a warm apple pie out of the oven on Thanksgiving,” is your idea of autumnal comfort, STACK Candles’ “Autumn Grace” is the one for you. A crowd favorite, this candle has the “warm aroma of apples and spices mulled to perfection,” says owner Justin Harris.
Smells like autumn
For candles that literally make your space smell like the epitome of the sunset leaves falling, keep reading!
Ryan Porter’s “Fall Is My Fave F Word” is the perfect scent for snuggle season according to candier Krysten Kauder. This soy candle is “a sassy little tribute to the coziest time of year…with just the right amount of festive spice, fresh sweet apple, and warming woody notes,” says Krysten. Another great option is their “That Autumn Aesthetic” candle which is inspired by the best East Coast fall outdoor activities like, “like leaf-peeping in Central Park and apple picking in the orchards of Upstate New York.” This fragrance is more elegant and understated, but it still guarantees those cozy vibes.
Another scent that captures the festive feels is Loam Candles’ “Harvest Basket.” This candle has notes of hay, tobacco, vetiver, and patchouli, making it “perfect for those who love an earthy scent and want something a bit different for the season, says SACRD’s senior commerce editor Dominique Hobdy-Olibrice. As there really is “something special about the transition from summer to fall,” this warm and musky candle truly captures that magic of the when “the days are just a bit shorter and there's still a warmth in the air but with a welcome breeze.”
For the ultimate cozy sweater weather ambiance, Brownies And Ginger Shop’s “Autumn Daze” is the one for you. “Reminiscent of falling leaves, cracking pine, cedar wood, and a hint of roasted marshmallows,” this candle burning while cozying up next to the fireplace with a glass of wine is the perfect fall scene, says shop owner Carrie Sheehan.
Pumpkin spice scents
It wouldn’t be a fall scents article without the mention of pumpkin, and boy do we have quite a few recommendations for you. For almost every single delicious pumpkin confection, there seems to be an equivalent candle just waiting for you to burn. Whether or not baking is on your autumn agenda, might as well have your home in Burlington, VT smell like you just pulled a tasty treat out of the oven season-round.
Our first recommendation is a candle that will make the air smell like a freshly baked pumpkin pie. Scents Candle Co.’s “Comfy Pumpkin” is just that – comfy and pumpkin. This fragrance will make you feel like you’re in a warm and inviting kitchen and is “your golden ticket to fall nostalgia and cozy vibes,” says co-owner Danielle Allen.
Looking for something that still screams classic pumpkin pie, but a little spicier? Aire Candle’s “Pumpkin Pie” will make you “want to throw on a sweater and sip a chai tea latte,” claims owner Justin. “Made exclusively with yellow beeswax and essential oils, pumpkin pie burns clean and fills the room with spicy, autumnal notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, orange and clove,” says Justin.
Speaking of chai tea lattes… instead of sipping on one, why not burn a chai latte scented candle? Sentient Self Co.’s “Pumpkin Chai Latte” candle is a “delightful blend of apple, brown sugar, vanilla, and spice that embodies the warmth and comfort of autumn,” says CEO Jasmine Johnson. This candle is sure to create an inviting autumnal atmosphere, “perfect for celebrating the beauty of the fall season,” asserts Jasmine.
Moving back to desserts and away from drinks, Gilded Olive Apothecary’s “Pumpkin Souffle” soy candle has the exact aroma of that freshly baked treat. This scent has “mouth-watering notes of cinnamon, pumpkin, vanilla, and a hint of clove [perfect for filling the] home with warmth and nostalgia,” says soapmaker Valerie DeVito.
If pumpkin souffle isn't to your taste, how about a different variation of pumpkin pie? Libellule Candle’s “Praline Pumpkin Pie” scent has a nuttier take on this classic. The praline notes make this candle the “perfect scent to take you to Thanksgiving and beyond,” claims owner Lynda. After all, “October is pumpkin season,” and nothing is more perfect and inviting than a space that smells like a fresh baked (praline) pumpkin pie.
Looking for more nutty notes? Mother-daughter duo Deb and Jess of Lemon & Lime Craft Co.’s favorite fall scent is none other than their “Pumpkin Crunch” candle. This soy wax candle “truly encapsulates a sublime mix of pumpkin, caramel, and maple glazed pecans for a truly on-point, fall-approved, bakery-style scent,” say Deb and Jess.
For a sweet scent that reads more vanilla than nutty, try Farm to Wick’s “Pumpkin Spice Buttercream” candle. Its top notes are pumpkin and warm brown sugar with a base of buttercream, nutmeg, and vanilla, alongside a dash of cinnamon. Since “scents have a powerful impact on our emotions and memories [this candle is] sure to evoke those warm comfy memories of baking and enjoying time with loved ones in the fall,” say co-owners Alice Long and Amy Manahan.
Looking for more buttercream aromas? Sweet buttercream, gooey marshmallow, and classic pumpkin pie are the top scents of Poured Candle Co.’s “White Pumpkin” candle. One of their best sellers, this scent truly brings together all of the favorite fall fragrances. With this candle burning, it’s sure to “leave you wanting to snuggle up by the fire on a cool fall night,” claims owner Bobbie Peiffer.
Sweet and spicy smells
Putting the focus more on the “spice” side of pumpkin spice, we’ve compiled our recommendations for the best spicy fall scents. So, if nutmeg, clove, ginger, and cinnamon are more your speed, you’re sure to find at least one of these you’re eager to burn.
Aptly named “Fall,” this Natural Sloth candle is truly the epitome of the spice-filled autumnal season. This candle is made with beeswax and pure essential oils of all the quintessential fall spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, and vanilla. Founder Tatiana says that “the warm, spicy, and sweet aroma, with prominent notes of nutmeg and cinnamon, perfectly captures the essence of autumn.”
For a scent that perfectly balances sugar and spice, try Creme de la Crop’s “Toasted Pumpkin” candle. This scent has “toasty top notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove [with] middle accords of silky buttercream and pumpkin, [and] a base of smoked embers and vanilla gives this scent a warm twist on a classic fall fragrance,” describes owner Leann Landgrebe. With the goal of reminding you of autumn festivals, pumpkin carving, and bonfires, this scent is sure to transport you to the best activities fall has to offer.
If baking and hosting is one of your favorite fall activities, Love Light Minnesota’s candles make the perfect centerpiece for any autumnal gathering. Their candles are sage-infused, made with coconut soy wax, and feature crackling wood wicks. Owner Amanda Burns specifically suggests one of their scents that combines ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves reminiscent of your childhood home during holiday baking season.
For a more “adult” spicy scent, we recommend Merigold Candles’ “Boozy Butterscotch” scented candle. Also featuring a wood wick, this candle is sure to set the perfect cozy ambiance with its delicious aroma of brown sugar, bourbon, and oak. “Not only does it offer an inviting fragrance, but its stylish vessel also serves as a chic decor piece for your coffee table or sideboard,” adds owner Courtney Nimtz.
Autumnal apple aromas
Not only is Apple an iconic “Brat Summer” song by Charli XCX, but it’s also one of fall’s most popular scents. The smell of fresh apple cider if a fall must, especially if pumpkin isn’t your cup of tea. Whether you prefer your cider chilled and from the grocery store or warm and enjoyed after finishing a corn maze, this fragrance screams autumn.
Our first apple candle recommendation comes from Stoney End Candle, Soap, and Bath. This small business’ “Fallen Leaves” scent is vibrant with the smell of autumn air. The soy candle has the scent of apple and berries, with a combination of green leaves, at its core along with notes of cinnamon, citrus, and chrysanthemum. “Pecan and cedar base notes enhance the natural outdoor quality, while balancing the fruit and spice notes,” adds owner Catherine Turner. With being apple forward, “the earthiness of this scent is enhanced by an infusion of cinnamon leaf, patchouli, cedarwood, vetiver, and sandalwood essential oils,” says Catherine.
If you’re specifically into macintosh apples, look no further than Gia Roma’s “Mac Apple” candle. This uplifting, light, and airy candle smells like cutting into a fresh macintosh and also features subtle hints of pear, musk, vanilla, and cedarwood. Curated for those who love fall but not pumpkin scents, “think of it as the apple pie to your pumpkin spice latte,” they suggest.
One of the best fall activities and memories stem from an apple orchard stroll on a chilly day. Whether you’re walking with family, friends, a significant other, or just by yourself, lots of us want our space to evoke this special time season-round.
For a classic take on this memory, try Georgia Rustics Candle Co.’s “Apple Harvest” candle. “This delightful blend of fresh apples, warm cinnamon, and aromatic cloves fills your home with a cozy embrace,” describes owner and Army veteran Maggie Stineman. In fact, Maggie guarantees that this scent will make you feel that “serene joy of an orchard walk on a cool fall day.”
Looking for a spicer take on the classic orchard walk? May we suggest “Spiced Apple Cider” by Cedar Crate? This is one of their most popular scents for a reason – it’s the perfect balance of apple and spice. Plus, “the seasonal fragrance of crisp apples, warm cinnamon, and a hint of clove is like taking a stroll through an orchard on a cool autumn day,” describes shop owner Kathi Cook.
If you’re in the market for scent that captures the exact moment that “warm apple cider [hits] your lips while at the apple orchard,” opt for Scripted Fragrance’s “Sipping Cider” candle. This shop is owned by mother-daughter duo Elizabeth and Amberlee Isabella, and “Sipping Cider” is one of their personal favorites given their beloved memories of the season. “Hand poured in a reusable rocks glass, our exclusive 22k gold leaf pattern is show stopping as both a candle and a drinking glass,” adds Elizabeth and Amberlee Isabella.
Cozy citrus fragrances
Fall fruit scents aren’t limited to just apples! How about enjoying a fresh citrus candle this fall season?
Holly Storm, blogger of Southern Mom Loves, especially loves Yankee Candle’s “Citrus Sage” scent for the fall season. Although not quintessentially fall, this candle is “beautifully blended and doesn’t remind you of either of it’s food-related namesakes,” says Holly. With a “lovely uplifting depth,” it’s Holly’s go-to when doing a fall deep cleaning that leaves [her] home smelling both fresh and warm.
Another great citrus option is Predominantly Black’s “Holiday Nostalgia” candle that blends both fruity and floral scents. This scent “will transport you back to the joys of childhood,” claims owner Mya Sinquefield. Its profile also includes notes of peach, snow, citrus, jasmine, wild violets, warm vanilla, and exotic musk for “a truly unique and nostalgic aroma that will make you feel happy and carefree.”
Smoky scents
Our last category of fragrances for this fall are scents with smoky notes. Whether you’re looking for a fragrance that reminds you of cozying up indoors near the fireplace or warming up during an outside bonfire, we have the candle for you.
If you’d prefer lighting a candle rather than fire, try Indelible Bliss Candles & Soaps’ “Fireside” candle. This scent truly captures the smoky essence of a crackling fire without all the mess. With its smoky, woody, and earthy notes, this scent is sure to create the perfect autumnal atmosphere and “transform your home into a cozy autumn haven,” claims owner Taniesha DePluzer. Specifically, if you’re looking for a scent to transport you to a cozy cabin in the woods, this candle is a must.
If a bonfire is more your speed, we suggest Rosie's Workshop’s “Bonfires and Bad Decisions” candle. This soy wax candle is sure to bring a smile to your face and remind you of all the fun youthful memories around the bonfire. This fragrance has notes of bourbon barrel, campfire smoke, fresh cut wood with hints of cedarwood, patchouli, eucalyptus, coriander, and clove leaf, making it the perfect bonfire scent.
Our last scent recommendation for this fall comes from none other than Frostbeard Studio. Their “The Inklings” candle is an autumn favorite with its woody oak base, warm cider middle, and a sweet tobacco top note. Reminiscent of a dark academia library or “college study session involving a dim-lit pub,” this unique "take on a fall “back-to-school scent is inspired by the famous Oxford literary discussion group (aka book club), home to both C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien,” says co-owner Roxie Lubanovic.