If you came here looking for weird candle scents like "dirty socks" or "old cheese," then you'll be sorely disappointed. All the weird candle scents on this list are admittedly strange—but they all smell incredible.
Sometimes, classics like pumpkin spice candles can get old, and you need new candle aromas to keep things interesting. That's why we curated this list of weird but incredible candle scents to tantalize your senses. Here are the best weird candle scents everyone should smell at least once.
15 Weird Candle Scents That Smell Amazing
1. SMOKED BACON CANDLE
Key Notes: Maple, Bacon, and BBQ Smoke
Do you enjoy breakfast in bed? Want to wake up to the smell of freshly cooked bacon but don't have a butler? Is your name Michael Scott? Then this weird candle scent was made for you.
The rich aroma of bacon sizzling on a skillet is perfectly balanced by the sweetness of maple syrup. It's a delightful blend of sweet and savory, making your space feel warm and inviting (and delicious).
2. FRESH CUT GRASS CANDLE
Key Notes: Green Grass and Florals
It might seem weird to want a candle that smells like the worst summer chore ever, but hear us out. There's something undeniably nostalgic about the scent of freshly cut grass. It takes you back to childhood summers, playing in the backyard and feeling the cool grass under your feet.
This candle captures that feeling, with the vibrant green notes evoking images of vast open fields bathed in sunlight. It's nature in its purest form.
3. MEN AT WORK CANDLE
Key notes: Bergamot, Rosemary, Juniper, Oakmoss, and Leather
Making a candle that smells like B.O. would be crazy! So, no, this candle doesn't smell like sweat or nastiness. But it is inspired by the rugged energy of a construction site all the same. Think worn leather boots and heavy moss-covered stones.
It's a scent that speaks to the heart of every hard worker (ladies included!), bringing a touch of masculine charm and raw energy to any space.
4. CAMPFIRE CANDLE
Key Notes: Balsam, Patchouli, Florals
If you're like most Michiganders, you love the smell of your hoodie the day after a late-night bonfire. Then you're going to love this one.
The campfire candle scent transports you straight to crackling wood logs and wildflowers that bloom under the moonlight. It's a grounding and mesmerizing scent—perfect for introspective evenings.
5. WARM FLANNEL CANDLE
Key Notes: Cashmere, Musk, Cedar, Orange
Do you ever just need a hug? This candle is what that feeling smells like. Luxurious notes of cashmere evoke the softness of the fabric. Musk and cedarwood bring warmth and depth.
It's a scent that's both comforting and uplifting. And it's perfect for those moments when you need a little extra coziness in your life.
6. SPRING RAIN CANDLE
Key Notes: Citrus, Herbs, Earth
Springtime in Michigan can mean some pretty gnarly thunderstorms. But once they're over, the world seems reborn. "Petrichor" is the wonderful term for that post-rain aroma that fills the air right before and after it rains.
The zesty citrus notes mimic the invigorating freshness of rain-soaked citrus trees, while the subtle herbal undertones transport you to a garden drenched in morning dew.
7. CRISP AUTUMN DAY CANDLE
Key Notes: Blood Orange, Yuzu Zest, Autumn Breeze
What do orange leaves and crisp air smell like? Admittedly, it's a weird candle scent, but it smells so good. With tangy notes of blood orange and yuzu zest, this candle is like the burst of color from fall foliage.
It's a scent that invites you to wrap yourself in a scarf, walk among the falling leaves, and embrace the beauty of change.
8. MULLED CIDER CANDLE
Key Notes: Apple Cider, Fresh Apple
Okay, apple isn't that much of a weird candle scent, but mulled cider? Come on, that's unique! The rich, spicy aroma of apple cider is perfectly complemented by the crispness of fresh apples.
It's like sipping on a hot drink on a cold winter's day. This scent is both festive and comforting, evoking memories of joyous celebrations and cherished moments.
9. I'VE GOT A GAL CANDLE
Key Notes: Mandarin Orange, Berry, White Musk
When love is in the air, can you smell it? If you could, this is what it would smell like—you'd inhale exuberant notes of sweet mandarin and sun-ripened peach with juicy berries.
The subtle undertones of white musk add depth and warmth, making it a perfect scent when you want to let loose and dance like no one's watching.
10. HEARTH & HOME CANDLE
Key Notes: Toffee, Bourbon, Toasted Oak
What does your house smell like? It might not always smell amazing, but this candle does. Home is where the heart is, and this scent is the embodiment of the warmth and comfort of home.
Rich, buttery toffee notes blend seamlessly with the deep, woody aroma of toasted oak. The hint of bourbon adds a touch of sophistication.
11. JUNIPER & MOSS CANDLE
Key Notes: Juniper Berries, Mint Leaves, Oakmoss
Summer fruits and plants get all the attention when it comes to candle scents. But what about winter foliage? The sharp, refreshing notes of juniper berries and mint leaves are like a burst of cold winter air, awakening your senses.
It's a scent that's both revitalizing and calming, perfect for those moments of quiet reflection.
12. FRESH LAUNDRY CANDLE
Key Notes: Citrus, Florals, Sandalwood, and Musk
You know the way your bed smells when you slip under freshly washed covers and sheets? This scent encapsulates that feeling of freshness and purity.
The bright citrus notes bring to mind detergent's zesty aroma, while the floral undertones are reminiscent of fabric softeners. The sandalwood and musk add depth, just like the warmth of clothes just out of the dryer.
13. MACKINAC BRIDGE CANDLE
Key Notes: Bergamot, Sea Salt
Bridges don't have smells, do they? Well, this one does! Journey to the iconic Mackinac Bridge with this invigorating scent. The fresh burst of bergamot is reminiscent of a brisk morning by the shoreline, while the calming sea salt breeze transports you to the heart of the Great Lakes.
It captures the essence of adventure and the serenity of nature, all housed in a beautifully designed Mackinac Bridge jar.
14. BAMBOO CANDLE
Key Notes: Orange, Grapefruit, Lily, and Wood
Bamboo is an uncommon candle scent, but it actually makes a ton of sense. This candle offers zesty notes of orange and grapefruit that bring a touch of brightness, while the soft, floral aroma of lily adds a layer of sophistication.
The woody undertones evoke images of a bamboo grove where Pandas play, and everything is peaceful and harmonious.
15. LEFTOVERS CANDLE
Key Notes: Possible layering of energizing, relaxing, exotic, floral, cozy, woody, fresh, and citrus fragrances.
It's a surprise every time! The Leftovers candle is our ode to reducing waste and embracing the unexpected. Each candle is a unique blend created from the remnants of our other fragrances.
As it burns, layers of different scents reveal themselves, taking you on a different sensory journey every time. It's a candle for the adventurous, for those who love surprises and cherish the beauty of imperfection.
Weird Candle Scents & Not-So-Weird Candle Scents
Whether you're drawn to the quirky allure of our Weird Candle Scents or the comforting familiarity of Not-So-Weird Candle Scents, we've got you covered. We've got Floral Spring Candle Scents, Fall Candle Scents, and more. Start exploring more Kalamazoo Candle Company scents today.
