Experts warn against these 4 popular autumn candle scents if don’t want your home to smell tacky

There’s no better way to welcome autumn than by lighting a scented candle and cosying up under a blanket indoors. 

However, some popular autumn-themed candle scents are at risk of being a little bit too popular – and instead of giving off a luxurious scent, they’re actually more likely to make your home smell like everyone else’s house.

Jennifer Sturgill, co-founder of US-based Unplug Soy Candles, told Livingetc: ‘With the changing of the seasons, it’s officially the time for all of the cliché apple pickin’ fragrances to flood homes nationwide.

‘But some of us prefer more understated, sophisticated scents throughout their home.’

The expert revealed these are the four overdone fragrances to avoid and what to use instead this fall…

1. PUMPKIN SPICE

Almost as soon as the first leaves turn orange, the internet goes wild for pumpkin spice – whether it’s lattes, biscuits, or even candles. 

The smell of warm pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove blends together to create a sweet, comforting scent. 

However, expert Heidi Stojanovic, co-founder of Foton Candles, said it is a ‘cliché’ that you want to avoid in your home.

She explained that a more ‘neutral’ scent can also bring the warm, cosy atmosphere to your home without being overbearing and ‘suffocating.’

Use instead: A warming scent that’s less sweet is Cardamom, which is a spice made from the seeds of several plants in the genera Elettaria and Amomum in the family Zingiberaceae.

It is known as one of the most expensive spices in the world and could add a luxurious smell to your home.

2. SUGAR COOKIE

While sugar cookie is also a popular scent during this season it is far from sophisticated, according to the expert.

The notes of warm buttery vanilla sugar tend to make this sweet spiced fragrance too overwhelming.

Use instead: Jennifer advises scents like suede or leather can still create that warm and cosy atmosphere without making your home smell like a bakery.

While it is an unexpected autumnal scent, it could help give your home a more upscale, sophisticated atmosphere. 

The smell of warm pumpkin, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves brings all the automanual nostalgia

3. APPLE PIE

There’s nothing like the smell of warm apple pie straight from the oven – however in candle form, it doesn’t quite have the same effect. 

The expert says the sweeter aromas ‘lack in debt and dimension’ and typically don’t serve as a luxurious scent.

She admits that some people can fall into the ‘gimmicky’ fragrances but are better off opting for something more opulent.

Use instead: Heidi says more natural fruit aromas such as fresh apples, figs or berries are less likely to smell like artificial, over-manufactured fragrances.

However, the comforting naturally sweet tones will give a nod to pies and other seasonal foods.

4. CARAMEL TOFFEE

Although the sticky sweet scent of caramel is enough to make your mouth water, experts don’t recommend it unless you’ve got a saucepan of hot sugar on the stove. 

Use instead: The experts claim a cinnamon-scented candle is a good alternative, evoking memories of sticky buns being freshly-baked in the morning.  

Some other woody spices can also ‘wrap you in a warm hug’ while giving a luxurious feeling to a room.

According to the experts, some woodier scents are worth buying in the autumn – and they can see you all the way through until Christmas.