In this post, we explore the best smelling Yankee Candles and what makes them so special.
Are you looking to add a little something special to your home fragrance palette? Do you want to make sure your guests feel warm and cozy with the perfect scent in the background?
Yankee Candle is beloved for their high-quality fragrances and long-lasting aromas, making them a household name for those looking to add a little ambiance and style to their home décor. With their range of seasonal, classic, and unique scents, they are sure to have something to tantalize your senses. But with so many different scents available, it can be daunting to decide which one is best for you.
We have done the research so you won’t have to waste time whiffing through the aisles! Our list of the top 17 best smelling Yankee Candles for 2022 will help you make the perfect choice! So light up your life and find a candle that fits any occasion today. ʘ‿ʘ✧.♬♪•*¨*•.¸¸
Read on for the best Yankee Candle scents on offer!
17 Best Smelling Yankee Candles
Ready to add some Yankee Candle magic to your home? Check out our list of the 17 best smelling Yankee Candles to find the perfect scent for any mood, space or season.
Best Overall: Balsam and Cedar
Most popularly known and rated as one of the go-to candles for the holidays, what makes the Yankee Candle Balsam and Cedar a best seller is its fresh, forest scent that extends even beyond the winter season. Available in various sizes, fill your rooms with the fragrance of trees for longer with its long burn time. With the Yankee Candle Balsam and Cedar, good feels can be all year round.
Wax Type: Paraffin Wax or Soy Wax Blend
Burn Time: 110-150 hours
Notes:
- Top :Crisp Citrus, Herbs, Red Berry
- Mid: Pine Balsam, Cedar, Sandalwood
- Base: Vanilla, Warm Amber, Musk
Pros:
- Long-lasting
- Great Fragrance
- Reasonably priced
Cons:
- Some reviews mention that the scent can be too subtle
- Mixed reviews on the classic large jar design
Reviews
- “…I still want something that is going to remind me of the winter time, and Balsam and Cedar sets the tone perfectly without being overly Christmas”, Stoney Keely
- “Not overwhelming, clean pine scent. Not too earthy, no musky overtones. Yankee delivers a very consistent product. They are not cheap candles, but once you find your scent, the quality is a consistent five star experience. Yankee could update and create a more contemporary label, this would likely appeal to a wider demographic”, K.S.
- “Was hoping for a stronger pine smell. Good candle though”, Amazon Customer
Best Comfort: Home Sweet Home
Nothing beats being able to come back from a hard day of work to the comfort and familiarity of your own home. With Yankee Candle Home Sweet Home, let the heartwarming blend of aromatic spices and sweet tea welcome you and melt the stress away. The delightful scents are formulated to bring feelings of serenity, warmth, and truly make your abode feel like the cozy haven you deserve.
Wax Type: Paraffin Wax or Soy Wax Blend
Burn Time: 110-150 hours
Notes:
- Top: Apple, Cinnamon Spice
- Mid: Nutmeg, Cherry, Juniper Berry
- Base: Coumarin, Musk
Pros:
- Homey scent fits any season of the year
- Long lasting
- Recommended as a gift
Cons:
- Mixed reviews on the throw of the scent
Reviews
- “Home Sweet Home is and has been the scent I love the most. People come in my house and tell me how good my house smells! Even guys, lol.” DeniseS
- I’ve been a Yankee Candle addict for well over 15 years, and this scent, “Home Sweet Home,” is the only one I use year-round! This purchase was delivered a day early and is a REAL Yankee Candle, not fake (believe me, I would know immediately if they were).” Renee
Best Zest: Sicilian Lemon
Keep the home smelling clean and fresh for longer by lighting the Yankee Candle Sicilian Lemon. The zesty lemon scent suits the kitchen and bathroom best, without it coming off as a household cleaning product. Coming in various sizes, bring vibrance in every room with this signature favorite.
Wax Type: Paraffin Wax or Soy Wax Blend
Burn Time: 110-150 hours
Notes:
- Top : Lemon Zest
- Mid: Vanilla, Tart Lemon
- Base: Vanilla, Sugar
Pros:
- Long lasting
- Great lemon scent
- Good deodorizer, recommended for kitchens and bathrooms
Cons:
- Some customers say that the large jar varieties have little to no scent when lit. An alternative is to opt for the two wick Signature line for a stronger hot throw or put the candle in a melt cup.
Reviews
- “Wonderful lemon smell without smelling like a household cleaning product”, Anne HM
- “Fabulous, fresh & sweet but not over the top , makes your house smell like a day in Italy”, Teek
- “My go to candle! Great smell just wish it was a bit stronger.” Karen
Best Zen: Dried Lavender & Oak
If you’re looking for a Yankee Candle that will bring an aura of calm to any room, look no further than the Dried Lavender and Oak scent. Not only does it provide you with the subtle smell of fresh davana, but also offers a hint of herbal lavender and woody notes from cedarwood. The delicate combination is sure to help lower stress levels and restore inner peace. Whether it’s burning during your morning meditation or lit throughout the day, this Yankee Candle is sure to be the perfect accompaniment for any peaceful occasion.
Wax Type: Paraffin Wax or Soy Wax Blend
Burn Time: 110-150 hours
Notes:
- Top: White Peppercorn, Lavender, Bergamot
- Mid: Davana, White Flowers, Moss
- Base: Vanilla, Patchouli, Cedarwood
Pros:
- Calming and balanced scent
- The scent is not overpowering; appropriate for meditative activities
- Reviews indicate scent lingers especially in smaller rooms
Cons:
- Some were concerned about burning paraffin wax from the Classic Large Jar. Opt for the Signature Large Jar which is made from soy wax for a cleaner burn.
- Mixed reviews on whether the scent is too subtle.
Reviews
- “The homey, clean, calming smell of this candle is perfect. Exactly what I was looking for. The scent lingers. This came exactly as described!” Carrie
- “I am in love with this candle. It’s super earthy and calming. I’ve been through 3 of them so far and will most likely be getting another eventually. The scent really permeates unlike some of the other Yankee Candle scents. The only downside for this candle would be the price, but you can almost always hunt down a sale.” J
Best Masculine: Midsummer’s Night
We haven’t forgotten the guys! We got you with the Yankee Candle Midsummer’s Night. The unique musky scent will give your bedroom a gentleman’s touch. Bachelor pads will greatly benefit from this addition, or anyone who likes clean, musky scents that are not overpowering.
Wax Type: Paraffin Wax or Soy Wax Blend
Burn Time: 110-150 hours
Notes:
- Top : Citrus, Herbaceous, Woody, Bergamot, Lime
- Mid: Lavender, Pine Floral Sage
- Base: Cedarwood, Vetiver, Juniper Berry, Clary Sage, Moss
Pros:
- Long lasting
- Unique Color
- Strong throw
- Signature medium jar is an optimal size. for gifts.
Cons:
- It is not an all-year round scent, according to some reviews.
Reviews
- “Midsummer’s Night is my favorite Yankee Candle scent…Very nice smell, like wet aftershave and a freshly dry-cleaned suit.”, Amazon Customer
- “The scent carries well and the candle lasts much longer than competing brands”, Jordan M.
Best Fresh: Fluffy Towels
You can never go wrong with a fresh clean scent like the Yankee Candle Fluffy Towels. As its name indicates, the candle fills the room with the scent of newly laundered towels and sheets, with a hint of floral and fruit notes. Available in various sizes, this is recommended for those who simply want to enhance the soft feel of their home.
This line has been discontinued on Yankee Candle US but is available on Amazon and Yankee Candle UK. Get it while you can!
Wax Type: Paraffin Wax or Soy Wax Blend
Burn Time: 110-150 hours
Notes:
- Top : Bergamot, Lemon, Eau De Cologne, Apple
- Mid: Lavender, Geranium, Carnation, Muguet, Orangeflower, Violet Leaves, Peach
- Base: Musk, Sandalwood, Iris
Pros:
- Long lasting
- Scent is a simple clean scent, best for bathrooms and bedrooms
- Limited stocks as product is discontinued on Yankee Candle US . An alternative with similar and softer notes would be the Yankee Candle Clean Cotton.
Cons:
- The simple clean scent may not be as appealing to those who are looking for a little more extra to complement their rooms.
Reviews
- “If the smell of a warm, clean house could be put into a jar – this would be the jar! Although it’s not an obvious attention-grabbing smell, it’s definitely a comforting scent that you notice after coming home from outside.”, Yankee Candle Customer
- “Smells nice and fresh. Wasn’t sure what fluffy towels would smell like but it’s pleasant”, Samira
Best Kitchen: Sparkling Cinnamon
Kitchens are the busiest part of the home. Complement warm meal preparations with the festive sweet and spicy scent from the Yankee Candle Sparkling Cinnamon. With cinnamon being a natural bug repellant, keep those ants away from the goodies while keeping your kitchen smelling toasty and great.
Wax Type: Paraffin Wax or Soy Wax Blend
Burn Time: 110-150 hours
Notes:
- Top : Cinnamon Stick
- Mid: Clove, Cardamom
- Base: Bay Leaf, Cedarwood
Pros:
- Long lasting
- Good throw
- Cinnamon scent can act as a repellent
Cons:
- Some reviews mention that the wax does not burn evenly
- Wax can be too soft
Reviews
- “Cinnamon is a wonderful smell and this candle is perfect!!”, Yankee Candle Customer
- “This is a fantastic candle that gives off a warm cinnamon smell & feeling. I’ve ordered it multiple times & it never disappoints!”, Brett
Best Bedroom: Midnight Jasmine
Close the day with the scent of flowers with the Yankee Candle Midnight Jasmine. Recommended for bedrooms, choose whether to relax and release the stresses of the day, or to set the mood for something a little more interesting. This variant is known for its light, floral scent without being too overpowering.
Wax Type: Paraffin Wax or Soy Wax Blend
Burn Time: 110-150 hours
Notes:
- Top : Grapefruit, Orange, Passion Fruit
- Mid: Jasmine White Flowers, Cyclamen, Rose
- Base: Black Currant, Orange Blossom
Pros:
- Long lasting
- Strong throw without being too overpowering
Cons:
- Some reviews mention that the scent is too subtle for a large room
Reviews
- “Smells like a jasmine bush blooming in summers air”, Yankee Candle Customer
- “I’ve used the scent for years. It has a great aroma and it’s wonderful for decor, and entertaining guests. Great for living room, bed room or even restrooms.”, Meg
Best Sweet: Macintosh
For that authentic vivid apple scent to invigorate the senses, light up the Yankee Candle Macintosh. One of the most popular Yankee Candle scents, it is a prime addition to giving life and color to living rooms and dining rooms. Who doesn’t like apples, right?
Wax Type: Paraffin Wax or Soy Wax Blend
Burn Time: 110-150 hours
Notes:
- Top : Apple Peels, Crisp Greens
- Mid: Rindy Grapefruit, Juicy Macintosh
- Base: Clove Bud, Sheer Musk
Pros:
- Long lasting
- Good, clean throw
Cons:
- Some reviews mention that the apple scent can be too strong after lighting the candle for a while
Reviews
- “I like that it smells boldly. Before I opened the box I could smell it and it’s such a good smell. I would say that it smells comforting and calm, with a hint of apple–which hits enough–it doesn’t overpower you and eventually become a turn-off like other bold aromas. Who doesn’t like to smell apples. I’m glad that I chose this for gifting.”, Amazon Customer
- “The scent of Macintosh apple lasts for the duration of the burn. It also scents the air when it is not lit.”, Janeth
Best Spicy: Spiced Pumpkin
Fall Season is pumpkin season, and what better way to indulge in it sans the extra pounds than with the Yankee Candle Spiced Pumpkin. Relax with the scent of pumpkin, nutmeg and other spices balanced with hints of citrus and sweetness from vanilla.
Wax Type: Paraffin Wax or Soy Wax Blend
Burn Time: 110-150 hours
Notes:
- Top : Citrus, Orange, Nutmeg, Spiced Pumpkin
- Mid: Cinnamon, Clove
- Base: Vanilla, Baked Notes
Pros:
- Long lasting
- Good throw
- Can be used to complement fall decorations
Cons:
- Some reviews mention that the strength lessens when the candle is already consumed midway in larger varieties
Reviews
- “I purchased online without having smelled this scent before, and it wasn’t what I was hoping for. HOWEVER, after burning it for about an hour, I like it. I wanted to be *drowned* in Fall scents but this candle is more of a lighter, not so bold flavor. I smell a sweet clove-y scent which will not slap you in your nose.”, Yankee Candle Customer
Best Fruity: Sugared Cinnamon Apple
Looking for a warm, sweet scent that’s more on the fruity side than the spicy side? We recommend Yankee Candle Sugared Cinnamon Apple. With hints of apple and cinnamon, your kitchen and living rooms will be filled with the warm scent that reminds you of a comforting dessert: apple pie!
Wax Type: Paraffin Wax or Soy Wax Blend
Burn Time: 110-150 hours
Notes:
- Top : Apple Slices
- Mid: Cinnamon Cider, Sugar
- Base: Fresh Vanilla, Nutmeg, Crushed Clove
Pros:
- Long lasting
- Helps eliminate odors
- Scent can be used all year round
Cons:
- Mixed reviews on the strength of the throw
Reviews
- “This is nice. I would like a little stronger on either cinnamon or apple. But it is still a nice fragrance. My boyfriend smokes cigars and burns this candle. Really helps diffuse the cigar smell. I love Yankee Candles. “, Ruth S.
- “It’s a perfect autumn scent, cinnamon and crisp apples. It makes you want to bake a pie!”, Yankee Candle Customer
Best Floral: Lilac Blossoms
Fans of the floral scent would never go wrong with the Yankee Candle Lilac Blossoms. In various sizes, fill your rooms with the soothing touch of lilac, a perfect complement to living rooms. The calming effect of lavender can also help to relieve the stresses of the day.
Wax Type: Paraffin Wax or Soy Wax Blend
Burn Time: 110-150 hours
Notes:
- Top : Dewy Greens, Water Lily, Bergamot
- Mid: Lilac Petals, Hyacinth, Tulip Bulbs
- Base: Cedarleaf, Vetiver, Moss
Pros:
- Long lasting
- Good throw even without lighting the candle
Cons:
- Some reviews report a problem with the wick; a recommendation would be to trim it when it gets too long
Reviews
- “I love the product, but the only thing I have a problem with is how fast the wick burns down. When you get about 2/3 down, the wick won’t stay lit because it burns down faster than the liquid wax.”, Mike Morris
- “This scented candle is just fantastic!! It lasts a really long time and the fragrance really permeates the entire house!”, Mark Martinez
Best Spring Harmony: Sage and Citrus
With its balanced and uplifting scent, the Yankee Candle Sage and Citrus welcomes a fresh spring feel to rooms without being overpowering. This candle is recommended for those who enjoy uplifting, natural aromas without the strong zest.
Wax Type: Paraffin Wax or Soy Wax Blend
Burn Time: 110-150 hours
Notes:
- Top :Herbaceous, Lavender, Citrus
- Mid: Geranium, Lavender
- Base: Patchouli, Powdery Notes, Musk, Woody Notes
Pros:
- Long-lasting
- The scent is not overpowering; can complement other scents in the room
- Can be used in the kitchen, bathroom
Cons:
- Mixed reviews on whether the lemon scent is too subtle
- Wick would fall in the candle after a while
Reviews
- “This candle has one of the better smells that you can really relax to and isn’t extreme on the nose.”, Ashley
- “Lovely fragrance that can be used all year, regardless of the season. Doesn’t become overly heavy as it burns.”, Sarah W.
Best Summer Escape: Pink Sands
Floral, fruity fragrances not only remind you of the garden: they can also remind you of the beach. Considered a staple in the Yankee Candle fragrance line, the Pink Sands variant is the perfect gift for those who like clean and not so overpowering scents for their home. The light pink color also clicks with teens, along with the sweet (not sandy!) scent.
Wax Type: Paraffin Wax or Soy Wax Blend
Burn Time: 110-150 hours
Notes:
- Top : Melon, Citrus, Berry
- Mid: Osmanthus
- Base: Spicy Vanilla Musk, Woody Notes
Pros:
- Long Lasting
- Giftable
- Good throw without being overpowering
Cons:
- Some reviews indicate the scent becoming too strong after burning the candle for too long. A recommendation would be to just light it for a couple of hours and then put it out. Helps with candle life too.
Reviews
- “The scent was very pleasant, light, and spring-like. However, after the 1-2 hour mark, the scent becomes strong… Use it every other couple of days and keep the house smelling pretty good, would recommend it as a gift as well.”, Adrian
- “I buy this candle every year for my best friend. The scent make you feel like you are at the beach. Calm and relaxing!”, Rusk
- “Pink sands is a very soft and beautiful scent. It’s a great gift for someone whom you don’t know what scents they like.”, Erin R
Best Cozy Fall: Autumn Wreath
Those who want to welcome the fall season but would like to keep it fresh can consider getting the Yankee Candle Autumn Wreath. With the scent of apples and other spices, relax to the bold crisp scent that feels like home.
Wax Type: Paraffin Wax or Soy Wax Blend
Burn Time: 110-150 hours
Notes:
- Top : Green Leaf, Apple
- Mid: Cinnamon, Clove, Nutmeg
- Base: Woody Notes, Vanilla
Pros:
- Long lasting
- Great for gifting
- Complements fall season decor
Cons:
- Those looking for a spicier, warmer scent can try the Yankee Candle Spiced Pumpkin variant.
- Mixed reviews on the throw
Reviews
- “Nice autumn fragrance but not a pumpkin fragrance, it’s more fresh. Buy more than 1 because you’re gonna want it around all fall! I can burn a large jar candle in about 1 month, so I go through these like crazy!”, Yankee Candle Customer
- “Smells like apple spice and craft store. It’s good to get you in the fall mood and will get your engine revving for all things October & November. Wish there was slightly more depth to this, but overall smells pretty good.”, Yankee Candle Customer
Best Winter Holidays: Christmas Cookie
Christmas is for the kids and kids at heart. What better way to feel Christmas than with the nostalgic, warm scent of freshly baked cookies? With the Yankee Candle Christmas Cookie, fill your living and dining rooms with the warm sweetness of vanilla and butter, coupled with other spices. Feast with all of your senses, as the scent is appetizing! Available in various sizes, it is the perfect gift for someone you want to share the holidays with.
Wax Type: Paraffin Wax or Soy Wax Blend
Burn Time: 110-150 hours
Notes:
- Top : Creamy Vanilla Bean
- Mid: Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Sugar
- Base: Baked Notes, Vanilla, Butter
Pros:
- Long lasting
- It can be used even after Christmas as the scent isn’t too Christmas themed.
- Good throw
Cons:
- Not recommended for deodorizing rooms.
Reviews
- “I am so glad I bought this candle. It smells soooo good.”, Shana N.
- “Great smell but could be stronger. Even though it has Christmas in the name, it’s a good year round scent.”, Yankee Candle Customer
Best Signature Limited: Snow Globe Wonderland
Preserve winter with gentle snow forever falling in the comfort of your home, just like a snow globe.
Indulge in the cool and minty combination of woodland and snow with one of Yankee Candle’s signature collections: Snow Globe Wonderland. The candle has a much cooler feel to it compared with other holiday or Christmas-themed variants. Easy on the nose, the candle can also be used all year round and is great as a gift.
Wax Type: Paraffin Wax or Soy Wax Blend
Burn Time: 60-90 hours
Notes:
- Top : Icy Mint, Star Anise, Sage, Holly Berry
- Mid: Nutmeg, Eucalyptus, Lavender
- Base: Cedarwood, Praline, Snow Moss
Pros:
- Long lasting
- Easy and relaxing due to the cool scent
- Unique scent that can be used all year round
Cons:
- Some reviews note that the throw of this candle can be too strong
Reviews
- “I recently received a snow globe wonderland Yankee Candle and it’s perfect. The smell is amazing and the candle looks so well with my decor. I love how these candles burn and do not leave black stuff at the top of the jar. The candles burn evenly and also have 2 wicks. The quality of these candles are excellent. I also like that they are made with soy wax. The candle made my whole house smell really good, and the scent stayed for a long time. I would definitely recommend to all my friends and family.” Guerita
- “Good scent that lasts a while. Well liked in our home during the holiday season.” Joshua D.
Considerations when buying a Yankee Candle
Before you buy your Yankee Candle, there are a few things you should consider:
What are Yankee Candles made of?
Yankee Candles are made of either paraffin wax or soy wax blends, and carefully chosen scents to create a luxurious experience. Paraffin wax is specifically designed to burn slowly and evenly (up to 110 hours for a classic jar), but does release more soot when lighting up. Apart from the original jar collection, the rest of the collections use a premium soy wax blend which burns cleaner.
Why are Yankee Candles so Popular?
Yankee Candles have become incredibly popular due to their unique scents, which can range from sweet and fruity to earthy and spicy. For those looking for a more subtle scent, Yankee Candles also offer unscented options. The scents also comes in an extensive array of options for any space, from jar candles, wax melt, refills and car clips.
How Do I Choose the Best Yankee Candle Scent for My Home?
Choosing the best Yankee Candle scent for your home need not be tricky. To narrow down your options, consider factors like note, throw and room size for best fit.
- Note: A candle’s fragrance is made up of different notes, or layers. The top note is the first impression of the scent, the middle note is the main body of the fragrance, and the base note is its final impression. Decide based on the main aroma you would like to fill the space with.
- Throw: “Cold throw” and “hot throw” are terms used to describe how far a scent travels from a candle before it’s lit, versus after it’s lit. For example, a cold throw is the strength of the candle scent when you smell it without lighting it or and a hot throw is how strong the smell is once it is burning.
- Room size: If you want to fill a larger space with a powerful fragrance, opt for a medium or large sized jar candle. For more subtle scents, opt for smaller votive and tealight candles.
FAQ
What is the nicest smelling Yankee Candle?
It really depends on your preference. Some of the most popular Yankee Candle scents include Home Sweet Home, Sparkling Cinnamon, and Macintosh.
What is the best selling Yankee Candle fragrance?
The best selling Yankee Candle is the Balsam and Cedar candle. Its aromatic cedar wood and juniper blend together for a year round festive forest scent, making it an all time favorite among customers. It also has a throw that serves small to medium sized rooms.
What is the most popular Christmas Yankee Candle scent?
Apart from Christmas Cookie, one of the most popular Christmas Yankee Candles scent is the Winter Night Stars. It has a crisp, fresh aroma that’s perfect for creating a wintry atmosphere. Check out the Snow Globe Wonderland Collection for discounts on the seasonal range.
Where to buy Yankee Candles?
Yankee Candles are available at most major retailers, including Target, Walmart, and Amazon. You can also find them on the official Yankee Candle website. We’ve listed links to purchase each of these candles. In general, Amazon has a better price than the official website, though it’s always worth checking both places before purchasing.
Are Yankee Candles safe for dogs?
Yes, Yankee Candles are safe for dogs and other pets when used as directed. However, it’s best to keep candles out of reach of pets and never leave them burning unattended.
How long do Yankee Candles last?
The burn time of a Yankee Candle depends on the size of the candle and how often it is burned. Most large jar candles will last up to 110 hours, while smaller votive and tealight candles can last up to 8 hours.
Wrap Up
Whether you’re looking for something cozy or invigorating, there’s bound to be a Yankee Candle scent that fits your needs! So take some time today to explore these options and find the perfect fragrant accompaniment for your home – it’ll be worth it once you get a whiff of these amazing candles! Be sure to consider factors like room size and aromatic note when choosing. Happy sniffing!