Threshold Candles

Discover Why These Affordable Luxury Candles Are Target’s Best-Kept Secret

In a world where self-care has become essential and home ambiance matters more than ever, finding the perfect candle can transform an ordinary space into a sanctuary. Among the myriad of options available, one brand has been quietly capturing the hearts (and noses) of candle enthusiasts nationwide. Threshold candles have emerged as the perfect balance of affordability, quality, and variety that many candle lovers have been searching for. But what exactly makes these Target-exclusive candles worthy of the devoted following they’ve amassed? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about this increasingly popular brand.

The Essence of Threshold Candles

Walking down the home goods aisle at Target, you’ve likely noticed the elegant display of Threshold candles with their minimalist packaging and enticing scent profiles. As Target’s signature home brand, Threshold represents the retailer’s commitment to delivering stylish, quality home products at accessible price points.

The candle line specifically stands out for its sophisticated approach to home fragrance. These aren’t your typical mass-produced candles—each one feels thoughtfully crafted, with scent combinations that could easily be mistaken for higher-end luxury brands. The difference? You won’t need to empty your wallet to enjoy them.

What sets Threshold candles apart is their ability to create an elevated ambiance without the premium price tag. Whether you’re a candle connoisseur or just someone who appreciates a pleasant-smelling home, Threshold offers something for nearly every preference and occasion.

Where to Find Your Perfect Threshold Candle

The answer to where you can purchase Threshold candles is refreshingly straightforward—Target is your exclusive destination. As a Target-owned brand, Threshold candles are available in virtually all Target retail locations across the United States. This exclusivity actually works in the consumer’s favor, as you’ll always know exactly where to replenish your favorites.

For those who prefer the convenience of online shopping, Target.com offers the complete selection of Threshold candles, often with detailed descriptions of scent notes and burn time. The website frequently features customer reviews as well, making it easier to discover new scents that align with your preferences.

One of the advantages of Target’s omnichannel approach is the flexibility it offers shoppers. You can browse online, place your order, and choose between home delivery or convenient in-store pickup. Some locations even offer same-day delivery through services like Shipt, perfect for those last-minute hosting needs or self-care emergencies.

Price Points That Make Sense

In today’s market of luxury candles that can easily cost $50 or more, Threshold candles represent a welcome alternative. The price range for Threshold candles typically falls between $5 and $20, depending on the size, collection, and seasonal factors.

The most affordable options are often the smaller single-wick candles, which typically retail for $5-$8. These make excellent bathroom accents or bedside companions. The mid-range options include larger single-wick and standard two-wick candles, usually priced between $10-$15. For the most substantial offerings—typically the three-wick candles in decorative containers—expect to pay around $15-$20.

This tiered pricing structure makes Threshold candles accessible for different purposes. You might opt for several smaller candles to create layered scent stories throughout your home, or invest in one statement three-wick candle for your living area. Either way, you’re getting considerable value compared to premium competitors.

What’s particularly impressive is that Target frequently includes Threshold candles in their seasonal sales and promotions. During major shopping events like Black Friday or after-holiday clearances, you can often find these already affordable candles at even deeper discounts, sometimes up to 50% off.

Quality That Exceeds Expectations

One of the most common questions about affordable candles is whether the quality measures up. With Threshold candles, the answer is a resounding yes. Target has positioned this line to compete with more expensive alternatives, focusing on three key quality factors: wax composition, fragrance integrity, and burn performance.

The wax blend used in Threshold candles is primarily soy-based, though many products use a soy-paraffin blend to optimize burn time and scent throw. This results in a cleaner burn than purely paraffin-based candles, with less soot production and a more even melt pool.

Fragrance integrity refers to how well the scent maintains its character from first light to final burn. Threshold candles generally excel here, with consistent scent profiles that don’t deteriorate or transform unpleasantly over time. The scent throw—how effectively the fragrance disperses into your space—is impressive for the price point, with most candles capable of scenting a medium-sized room without becoming overwhelming.

Burn performance is where many budget candles falter, but Threshold has refined their wick design and wax formulation to create reliable, long-lasting burns. With proper wick maintenance (trimming to ¼ inch before each use), these candles typically avoid common problems like tunneling or excessive smoking.

Long-time candle enthusiasts often express surprise at how Threshold candles perform compared to brands at two or three times the price point. While they may not have the exceptional throw of the most premium brands, the quality-to-price ratio is undeniably impressive.

A Symphony of Scents

Perhaps the most exciting aspect of Threshold candles is their diverse and sophisticated fragrance library. Rather than relying on simplistic, one-dimensional scents, Threshold offers complex, layered fragrances organized into several categories:

Fresh and Clean: These scents create an atmosphere of cleanliness and brightness. Popular options include Ocean Air, Clean Linen, and Rain Water.

Warm and Cozy: Perfect for creating intimate, comforting spaces. Favorites include Cashmere Vanilla, Fireside, and Warm Caramel Brûlée.

Floral: These capture the essence of blooming gardens and delicate flowers. Standouts include Blooming Peony, Wild Rose, and Lavender Fields.

Fruity: Vibrant and energizing, these scents bring vitality to any room. Popular choices include Citrus Grove, Berry Bramble, and Pomegranate Fizz.

Earthy and Woody: These grounding scents create sophistication and depth. Cedar & Suede, Sandalwood Ember, and Forest Walk exemplify this category.

Seasonal and Limited Edition: Throughout the year, Target introduces special collections aligned with seasons and holidays. Fall brings pumpkin and spice variations, winter features pine and wintery scents, spring introduces fresh floral options, and summer typically sees tropical and citrus additions.

What’s particularly impressive is how Threshold approaches scent complexity. Even their simpler options typically feature top, middle, and base notes that evolve subtly as the candle burns. A candle labeled “Vanilla” isn’t just a straightforward vanilla scent but might incorporate subtle notes of amber, caramel, or even light floral elements that create a more sophisticated olfactory experience.

The Wax Composition Question

For the increasingly conscious consumer, understanding what goes into products is important. Threshold candles are primarily made with a soy wax blend. While not 100% soy (which would typically come with a higher price point), the formulation uses a significant proportion of soy wax combined with other waxes to optimize performance and cost.

This hybrid approach allows Threshold to deliver many benefits of soy candles—cleaner burning, good scent throw, longer burn times—while maintaining their accessible price point. The exact ratio varies between different candle styles in the line, with some of the premium seasonal collections featuring higher soy content.

It’s worth noting that Threshold has been gradually increasing the natural content of their candles over the years, responding to consumer preferences for more natural products. While not marketed as fully “natural” candles, they represent a middle ground between conventional paraffin candles and premium all-natural alternatives.

Natural Ingredients and Considerations

When it comes to the fragrance components, Threshold candles use a combination of natural essential oils and high-quality fragrance oils. This blend allows them to create complex scent profiles that would be difficult or prohibitively expensive to achieve using only natural essential oils.

For those with sensitivity concerns, Threshold does offer some unscented options, particularly in their basic pillar and taper candle lines. Additionally, many users with mild fragrance sensitivities report that the balanced nature of Threshold scents causes fewer headaches or irritation than heavily perfumed competitors.

While not certified organic or all-natural, Threshold candles generally avoid the most controversial ingredients found in some candle products. They’re formulated without phthalates, and the wicks are lead-free cotton, addressing two common concerns in candle production.

For consumers navigating the spectrum between completely natural products and conventional options, Threshold represents a thoughtful middle path that acknowledges health and environmental considerations while maintaining practicality and affordability.

Burn Time: Getting Your Money’s Worth

One of the most important factors in candle value is how long they last. Threshold candles offer impressive burn times relative to their price points, with smaller single-wick options typically burning for 20-30 hours and larger three-wick candles offering 40-60 hours of enjoyment.

These burn times are competitive with much more expensive brands, particularly when proper candle care is observed. To maximize your Threshold candle’s lifespan:

1. Always allow the top layer to melt completely across (especially during the first burn) to prevent tunneling
2. Trim wicks to ¼ inch before each lighting
3. Burn for at least 1-2 hours at a time, but never more than 4 hours
4. Keep away from drafts, which can cause uneven burning
5. Extinguish with a snuffer or wick dipper rather than blowing out, which can cause smoking

Many loyal Threshold customers report exceeding the stated burn times by following these practices, further enhancing the value proposition of these affordable candles.

Size and Style Options

Threshold candles come in a variety of sizes to suit different spaces and purposes:

Votives and Tea Lights: Perfect for creating multiple points of light or using in decorative holders.

Small Jars (4-6 oz): Ideal for bathrooms, bedside tables, or creating layered scent stories throughout your home.

Medium Jars (8-12 oz): The most versatile size, suitable for most average-sized rooms.

Large Jars (14-20 oz): Designed for larger spaces or for those who burn candles frequently.

Specialty Shapes: Seasonal collections often include unique shapes like pumpkins for fall or snowmen for winter holidays.

This range allows consumers to select the right size for their specific needs, from small accent pieces to statement candles that can serve as room focal points.

Decorative Appeal and Gifting Potential

Beyond fragrance and burn quality, Threshold candles stand out for their design aesthetic. The containers typically feature clean lines and sophisticated styling that complement a range of interior design approaches. The standard line uses simple glass containers with minimal labeling, creating a timeless look that doesn’t clash with existing decor.

Seasonal collections often receive special treatment, with colored glass, textured containers, or decorative lids that elevate the presentation. Holiday editions frequently incorporate festive elements without becoming tacky—think subtle metallic accents rather than overly literal holiday imagery.

This attention to visual appeal makes Threshold candles particularly suitable as gifts. They strike the perfect balance of being nice enough to impress the recipient while not being so expensive that giving several feels extravagant. For housewarming, hostess gifts, or casual birthday presents, a Threshold candle paired with a nice matchbook strikes the right note of thoughtfulness without excess.

The reusable containers add further value. Once the candle is finished, many Threshold jars can be repurposed as stylish storage for small items, vases for short-stemmed flowers, or decorative catchalls. The simpler designs are particularly versatile for upcycling projects.

Customer Experiences and Reviews

The true measure of any product is customer satisfaction, and Threshold candles generally receive strong reviews. On Target’s website, most Threshold candle varieties maintain ratings between 4 and 4.5 stars out of 5, with particularly passionate followings for certain scents.

Positive reviews frequently mention:

• Excellent value for money
• Scent throw that exceeds expectations for the price point
• Attractive containers that blend well with home decor
• Consistent quality across different scent varieties
• Long burn times when properly maintained

The most common criticisms involve:

• Occasional quality control issues with wicks
• Some scents being subtler than expected
• Limited availability of certain seasonal favorites
• Some users finding the scent throw insufficient for very large spaces

What’s particularly notable is the brand loyalty Threshold has cultivated. Many reviewers mention being converted from luxury candle brands after trying Threshold, finding that the quality difference doesn’t justify the significant price gap. Others describe hunting down favorite seasonal scents or stocking up during sales—behaviors typically associated with premium candle enthusiasts.

Fragrance Intensity: Finding Your Perfect Match

Fragrance intensity is subjective—what one person finds perfectly balanced, another might consider too subtle or overwhelming. Threshold candles generally aim for a middle ground, with enough presence to notice but not so much as to overwhelm a space.

For those who prefer stronger scents, the three-wick options typically offer the best throw, capable of fragrancing medium to large rooms. Collections marketed with terms like “enhanced fragrance” or “intense” also provide stronger experiences. Popular stronger scents include many of the spice, gourmand, and woody varieties.

For sensitive individuals or those who prefer subtler ambiance, the single-wick options or scents described as “fresh” or “light” provide more gentle fragrance experiences. Clean linen, light floral, and soft aquatic scents tend to be more restrained.

One advantage of Threshold’s moderate pricing is that it allows for experimentation. Rather than committing $30+ to a single luxury candle only to discover the scent isn’t right for you, you can try several Threshold varieties for the same investment.

Safety Considerations

Candle safety is paramount, and Threshold candles meet all standard safety requirements for indoor use. The wicks are properly sized for their containers, and the vessels are heat-resistant to minimize risks of cracking or shattering.

The soy blend wax used in most Threshold candles produces less soot than pure paraffin alternatives, making them cleaner-burning options. This reduces residue on walls and ceilings—a concern for frequent candle users.

As with all candles, following basic safety practices is essential:

• Never leave burning candles unattended
• Keep away from flammable materials
• Place on heat-resistant surfaces
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Maintain proper distance between multiple burning candles
• Stop use when 1/2 inch of wax remains at the bottom

Target also includes comprehensive safety information on Threshold candle packaging, demonstrating their commitment to responsible consumer education.

Competitive Comparison: How Do They Stack Up?

When comparing Threshold candles to competitors, both mass-market and premium, several distinctions emerge:

Vs. Yankee Candle: Yankee offers greater brand recognition and somewhat stronger scent throw, but at substantially higher prices. Threshold provides more contemporary designs and often more sophisticated scent compositions at a better value point.

Vs. Bath & Body Works: B&BW candles frequently have stronger throw and more seasonal variety, but come with higher price tags (though frequent sales can close this gap). Threshold offers more subdued, sophisticated aesthetic and often more complex fragrances.

Vs. Luxury Brands (Diptyque, Jo Malone, etc.): Premium brands offer exceptional ingredients, extraordinary longevity, and status appeal, but at 3-5 times the price. Threshold provides surprisingly comparable burn performance and attractive designs at a fraction of the cost.

Vs. Other Mass Market Options (Walmart, etc.): Threshold consistently outperforms most true budget candles in burn quality, scent complexity, and container design, justifying their slightly higher price point in this comparison.

The verdict? While each competitor has strengths, Threshold occupies a sweet spot of quality, design, and affordability that few others successfully balance. They’re the perfect “everyday luxury”—special enough to enjoy regularly without the premium price tag.

Sustainability Considerations

As consumers increasingly prioritize sustainability, Threshold has made gradual improvements to their candle line. While not marketed primarily as an eco-friendly brand, they incorporate several environmentally considerate elements:

• Increasing soy content in their wax blends (soy is renewable compared to petroleum-based paraffin)
• Using cotton wicks (renewable and biodegradable)
• Creating containers that are easily repurposable
• Minimalist packaging that reduces waste

There’s certainly room for improvement—truly eco-conscious consumers might prefer 100% soy or coconut wax, recyclable packaging guarantees, or carbon offset programs. However, Threshold represents a step in a more sustainable direction compared to fully conventional candles, especially at their price point.

Target has indicated commitments to increasing sustainability across their owned brands, suggesting that Threshold candles may continue to evolve in this direction as manufacturing processes and materials advance.

Seasonal Specialties Worth Watching For

One of the most enjoyable aspects of the Threshold candle line is their seasonal releases. Target takes full advantage of their design capabilities to create limited-edition collections that capture the essence of each season and holiday.

Fall Collection: Typically released in late August, featuring sophisticated takes on autumn classics like pumpkin, apple, cinnamon, and woodland scents. Look for Harvest Spice, Fireside, and Pumpkin Chai as perennial favorites.

Winter Holidays: Released progressively from October through December, these collections include everything from Halloween themes to Christmas classics. Standouts include Pine Forest, Winter Spice, Sugared Cranberry, and Fireside.

Spring Renewal: Usually appearing in February, these fresh and floral scents celebrate the changing season. Popular options include Blooming Peony, Spring Rain, and Fresh Cut Herbs.

Summer Escape: By May, summer scents arrive with bright citrus, tropical, and aquatic themes. Favorites include Coastal Breeze, Tropical Sorbet, and Summer Melon.

What makes these collections particularly special is Target’s approach to seasonal scents. Rather than relying on simplistic, artificial versions of holiday classics, Threshold creates nuanced interpretations. Their pumpkin scents, for instance, incorporate genuine spice complexities rather than one-dimensional sweetness. Holiday pine fragrances include subtle hints of citrus or berry that elevate them beyond basic tree scents.

Seasoned Threshold fans know to act quickly when seasonal collections arrive, as the most popular options frequently sell out well before the season ends.

Bundle Options for Greater Value

While individual candles offer excellent value, Threshold occasionally releases multi-packs that provide even better deals. These typically come in two formats:

Complementary Scent Sets: These bundle 2-4 smaller candles with coordinating fragrances, perfect for creating layered scent experiences throughout your home or for sampling several options.

Gift Sets: Particularly prevalent during the holiday season, these curated collections often include candles paired with complementary home items like matches, diffusers, or decorative holders.

The value proposition of these sets is compelling—they’re typically priced 15-25% lower than purchasing the items individually. They also make excellent ready-to-give gifts with a more substantial presentation than a single candle.

The Clean Burn Advantage

Clean-burning quality is one of the most important practical considerations for regular candle users. Threshold candles generally deliver an impressively clean burn experience, especially considering their price point.

The soy blend formulation and properly sized cotton wicks contribute to minimal sooting—the black residue that can accumulate on walls, ceilings, and nearby objects with lower-quality candles. While no scented candle is completely soot-free, Threshold produces noticeably less than many comparably priced alternatives.

This clean-burning quality translates to several practical benefits:

• Less frequent need to clean surfaces near candle-burning areas
• Reduced indoor air pollution
• Cleaner containers that are easier to repurpose once the candle is finished
• More consistent scent experience throughout the burn life

For those particularly concerned about clean burning, the unscented pillar options in the Threshold line typically offer the cleanest experience, as fragrance oils can sometimes contribute to soot formation.

Availability: In-Store vs. Online

The question of where to buy Threshold candles has a simple answer—Target is your exclusive retailer—but the shopping experience differs between in-store and online channels.

In-Store Experience:
Shopping for candles in person offers the obvious advantage of being able to smell the product before purchasing. Target stores typically display Threshold candles in the home décor section, with seasonal collections often featured on endcaps or special displays.

The in-store selection varies significantly by location. Larger Target stores generally carry a more extensive range, while smaller formats might stock only the bestsellers. Urban stores sometimes focus on smaller sizes due to space constraints.

Online Shopping:
Target.com offers the complete Threshold candle selection, including some online-exclusive options not found in stores. The website provides detailed product descriptions, including fragrance notes and burn times, along with customer reviews that can guide purchasing decisions.

Online ordering offers convenience and ensures you can access the complete range regardless of your local store’s inventory. The site frequently provides filtering options to browse by scent family, size, or season, making it easier to discover new favorites.

Many shoppers adopt a hybrid approach—discovering scents they love in-store, then ordering online for replenishment or to access colors and variations not stocked locally.

Conclusion: Why Threshold Candles Deserve a Place in Your Home

After examining every aspect of Threshold candles, it’s clear why they’ve developed such a devoted following. They occupy a unique position in the market—affordable enough for everyday use yet sophisticated enough to feel special.

For candle enthusiasts on a budget, they offer a way to enjoy quality fragrance experiences without financial sacrifice. For those who could afford luxury brands but question their value, Threshold provides a pragmatic alternative that delivers 80% of the premium experience at 30% of the cost.

The combination of thoughtful scent development, respectable burn quality, attractive design, and accessibility makes Threshold candles an outstanding option for anyone looking to enhance their home environment. Whether you’re creating a relaxing bathroom retreat, setting the mood for a dinner party, or simply making your living space more inviting, these candles deliver remarkable performance for their price point.

In a marketplace filled with either cheap, disappointing options or beautiful but prohibitively expensive luxuries, Threshold candles shine as a brilliant middle path—proof that you don’t need to spend extravagantly to surround yourself with lovely things that enhance daily life.

The next time you’re at Target or browsing their website, take a moment to explore the Threshold candle collection. You might just discover your new home fragrance staple—one that brings joy without breaking the bank.