Every item on this page was hand-picked by a House Beautiful editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.
For when your nose needs a break from pumpkin overload.
This is Note-Worthy, our latest exploration of the home fragrance world and the role it plays in design. We’re touching on what's important to you, from how to “scentscape” your space to buying the right candles to how scents can affect your mood, energy, and even real estate value. Follow along to build an aroma vocabulary that tells your home’s story.
Yes, pumpkin spice is synonymous with autumn, from the return of seasonal PSLs to orange-colored pies stocked on grocery store shelves, the delectable aroma is inescapable. But for those of us who are a bit tired of the scent, candle season can feel a little overwhelming. Where are all the candles for those of us who love fall, but are sick of pumpkin?
House Beautiful editors took on the case. We called in dozens of candles, testing out viral brands for the best fall fragrances, pumpkin excluded. Rest assured, our office smells amazing. Our favorite fall scents are warm, moody, and complex, befitting the season's early sunsets and spooky atmosphere. We found picks to satisfy every palette. Prefer florals in your home? Damask rose and geranium combine in a romantic candle from Apotheke. And we completely understand if you still want something fresh-baked. We found a more sophisticated take on classic warm vanilla via this delicious candle from Ranger Station.
And you don't have to stick to candles, either. If you prefer a flameless option, many of these scents are available as reed diffusers or room sprays. (Associate Shopping Editor Janae McKenzie loves this bitter cherry diffuser for her bathroom.) Scroll ahead to shop cozy candles with no pumpkin aroma—it's time to take a break from it.
Best DealInstead of typical pumpkin spice, get a little spicier. Smell House is known for its unique scents, like Juice Hoax, which smells like a fresh green juice, and we love its Szechuan Sugar scent as well. It combines Sichuan pepper, honey, and clove for aromatics that are fiery and warm. With just a hint of black tea, it warms up any room.
Ranger Station packages a cocktail recipe meant to be enjoyed with each candle, and for the Speak Easy, it's the new classic: an espresso martini. With vanilla and demerara sugar swirling through the air, it's a sweet date night candle that'll make you want dessert with your drink.
Cherries might turn ripe in the summer, but round out the scent with cardamom and patchouli, and you have a spicier, darker take. Apotheke completes their Bitter Cherry scent with black violet for a sweet fragrance that won't become cloying. It's a fruity scent that sets the mood in the background.
Is any fall complete without a tart and crispy apple, fresh from the tree? Lighting this candle is like bottling that feeling. The white oak, juniper berry, and wild currant recreate that orchard smell. It's refreshing, and it fills a room quickly, so it's great for last-minute guests.
If you're looking for a sensual, bougie start to fall, this is the scent for you. It's like an emo guide to florals, perfect for a spooky soirée. Black rose and mahogany mingle with santal, a favorite of five-star hotels everywhere.
You know that magical season where fall gives way to the holidays? This is the perfect transition scent. It's inspired by the pomander, everyone's favorite holiday air freshener. Cloves and bitter orange provide an uplifting finish, like a cinnamon-tinged simmer pot. It'll follow you well into winter and add some brightness on darker days.
Create that warm, woody feeling without making the room smell like men's cologne. Cedarwood and Moroccan amber are balanced out by fruity mandarin in this candle. Think: a fresh shower after a long hike in the rain. You could truly light this one year-round, but it'll be extra special on an autumn cabin trip.
Though tobacco is in the name, this candle smells better than an old-school cigar lounge. That's thanks to the patchouli, nutmeg and vanilla, grounding the strong smoke in a sweeter place. If there's no fireplace or bonfire in sight, get the same feeling from lighting this candle.
The name of this candle might sound like apple pie, but you'll be surprised to learn apple is not in any of the notes. Instead, tangerine, lemon, orange and tonka bean create a vibrant, fruity mixture of their own. It's crisp like an apple, and the chic cabana stripes on the vessel don't hurt.
Editor-favorite brand Keap successfully re-created the smell of the woods after rain. Wet moss, juniper trees, and crispy, dried leaves are its grounding notes. It's a deep scent that unfolds slowly and makes you want to savor it, just like the changing colors of the leaves around you.
Apotheke added a warmer finish to its best-selling Charcoal scent with Charcoal Rouge. The cedarwood and smoke are still there, but damask rose, geranium, and peony give it a "femme fatale" finish. It's velvety and earthy, and dare we say pretty romantic.
In our humble opinion, plum is a deeply underrated autumn fruit. This frosted candle puts it center stage. Encased in cashmere wood and patchouli leaf, it's a lightly sweet mood-setter. Light this one for Sunday baking and family quality time—it'll add to the cozy environment.
"Room Serenity" Is the Secret to Balancing Design and Mental Health
"Invisible Wellness" Is the Next Big Home Trend
The Best Scents to Sell Your Home for More Money
THIS Unexpected Trend Is Coming for Painted Walls
