How to Use a Candle Warmer as a Simmer Pot (and Why It Works Surprisingly Well)
- Astrid van Essen
- Oct 29
- 5 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
There’s something instantly calming about a simmer pot gently releasing scent through the home. But what if you want a flameless, low-energy option that’s safe to leave unattended? That’s where a candle warmer lamp comes in.
I started experimenting with candle warmers after realising they use just enough heat to melt wax — so why not use that same warmth to diffuse botanical blends? The result is a steady, subtle fragrance that lingers far longer than I expected.
This guide explains how to use a candle warmer as a simmer pot, how it compares to an electric hotplate, and which ingredients work best for each.
How Does a Candle Warmer Work?
A candle warmer is a small electric device that melts candle wax from below or above, using gentle radiant heat. Most operate at around 40–60 °C — warm enough to liquefy wax or heat water without boiling.
Because there’s no open flame, it’s a safer and more energy-efficient alternative to burning candles or simmering pots on the hob. The steady heat slowly and consistently releases scent, creating a calm atmosphere that feels effortless.
Can You Use a Candle Warmer as a Simmer Pot?
Yes, you absolutely can. A candle warmer works beautifully for small-scale simmer pot recipes. Instead of wax, you’ll use a small bowl or jam jar filled with water and aromatic ingredients such as citrus slices, dried herbs, or a few drops of essential oil (always diluted).
This method is ideal for flats, studios, or home offices where you want fragrance without steam or open heat. The scent won’t fill an entire house, but it’s perfect for adding a quiet, natural aroma to one room.
How to Turn Your Candle Warmer into a Simmer Pot
Choose a heat-safe bowl — ceramic or glass works best.
Add water until the bowl is about half full.
Add your botanicals — such as orange peel, cinnamon sticks, rosemary, or cloves.
Place the bowl on the candle warmer and switch it on.
Top up with water as needed to prevent drying out.
After use, let it cool, then clean the bowl with warm water and mild soap.
Tip: If your mixture still smells good after use, store it in the fridge overnight and reuse it the next day.
Candle Warmer vs Electric Hotplate — Which Is Better?
Not everyone owns a candle warmer, and if you’re making larger simmer pot blends, an electric hotplate might actually be the more practical option. Both work beautifully for scenting your home, but they suit different purposes.
A candle warmer provides gentle, continuous warmth. It slowly releases fragrance without boiling, making it perfect for smaller spaces, bedrooms, or offices. It’s energy-efficient, quiet, and safe to leave on for hours.
An electric hotplate, on the other hand, offers higher and adjustable heat. It’s ideal for deeper bowls, larger volumes, or ingredients like cinnamon sticks, pine, and dried oranges. The scent throw is stronger and fills bigger areas more quickly, though it needs more supervision and uses more energy.
Which should you choose? If you prefer a subtle, long-lasting fragrance with minimal effort, go for a candle warmer. It’s ideal for everyday use or calm evenings.
If you enjoy a stronger scent or want to make seasonal blends for gatherings, an electric hotplate gives more power and flexibility. Many people end up using both — the warmer for quiet moments, the hotplate for special occasions.
Pros and Cons of Using a Candle Warmer as a Simmer Pot
Pros
Energy-efficient and safe — no open flame.
Compact and ideal for small spaces.
Creates a gentle, lasting fragrance.
Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
Subtle scent throw compared with stovetop simmering.
A small bowl capacity means topping up more often.
Not suitable for heavy ingredients such as resins or thick essential oils.
Simple Simmer Pot Blends for Candle Warmers
Citrus & Rosemary Calm Blend – Orange slices, rosemary sprigs, and a drop of lemon oil.
Cinnamon & Clove Festive Mix – Cinnamon stick, cloves, dried orange peel.
Lavender & Eucalyptus Relax Blend – Dried lavender, eucalyptus leaves, and a touch of vanilla extract.
These gentle blends work best with warm water and low heat. Always ensure your ingredients are fully submerged and avoid undiluted oils, as they can leave residue.
Safety and Cleaning Tips
Don’t overfill the bowl — leave room for bubbling.
Never use undiluted essential oils.
Keep the warmer on a flat, heat-resistant surface.
Unplug when not in use and let it cool before cleaning.
Wash the bowl with mild soap and water; avoid abrasive cleaners.
How to Use a Candle Warmer as a Simmer Pot: Final Thoughts
A candle warmer may be designed for melting wax, but it doubles as a slow, sustainable simmer pot for natural home fragrance. It’s safe, quiet, and beautifully simple — a perfect way to bring calm to everyday spaces.
For more ways to scent your home naturally, explore my other guides:
FAQ: Using a Candle Warmer as a Simmer Pot
1. Can you really use a candle warmer as a simmer pot?
Yes. A candle warmer can gently heat water mixed with herbs, spices, or fruit slices to release fragrance — just like a traditional simmer pot, but without an open flame. It’s ideal for small spaces, offices, or anywhere you prefer a flameless option.
2. What’s the difference between a candle warmer and an electric hotplate?
A candle warmer produces low, steady heat, perfect for subtle, long-lasting fragrance. An electric hotplate runs hotter and faster, giving a stronger scent throw but using more energy. The warmer is better for gentle daily use; the hotplate is better for larger, stronger blends.
3. How long can I safely leave a candle warmer on?
Most candle warmers are designed for extended use — up to 8–10 hours — but always check your device’s instructions. Keep the bowl topped up with water and never leave it running completely dry.
4. What ingredients work best in a candle-warmer simmer pot?
Light botanicals such as dried orange peel, cinnamon, cloves, lavender, rosemary, and citrus slices work beautifully. Avoid thick resins or undiluted oils, which can leave residue or reduce heat efficiency.
5. Does a candle warmer make the room smell as strongly as a stove simmer pot?
The scent from a candle warmer is softer and more gradual. It won’t fill the whole house, but it creates a steady, natural aroma in one room. For stronger results, an electric hotplate or stovetop simmer pot works better for larger batches.
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