Between studying, sleeping, and socialising, you spend a lot of time in your dorm room [1], so it's really important that it feels like home [2]. But one issue you may run into when making your small space your own is candles. Colleges typically don't allow students to keep candles in their dorm rooms as they're seen as a potential fire hazard, but they're also such an essential part of a cosy and welcoming space. So what do you do? Thankfully, there are a lot of alternatives to candles [3] that can help you achieve that soft glow and great scent without breaking any rules. From pineapple-shaped ceramic diffusers to electric candle look-alikes, here are five candle substitutes that will give your room cosy vibes without any of the worry.
Serene House Dome Electric Wax Warmer
The Serene House Dome Electric Wax Warmer [5] ($25) adds heavenly scents to any room by warming wax pods. Scent options [6] include everything from Apple Cinnamon to Lemon Zest, which will make you say, "Who needs candles when you have wax warmers?"
Loft Living Flameless Pillar Candles with Remote (Set of 3)
These Loft Living Flameless Pillar Candles with Remote [7] ($15 for 3) may actually be a dream come true. Not only do they look like real candles, flickering wick and all, but they're also operated using a handy remote controller. Yep, that means you don't even have to get out of bed to turn them on and off.
LOVSPA Pink Peony Reed Diffuser
The LOVSPA Pink Peony Reed Diffuser [8] ($25) uses aromatherapy to make any room feel like home. Place near your desk area or in your bathroom for a constant fresh scent.
Woven Globe String Lights
Want the glow but aren't allowed to have candles? This is where Urban Outfitters's Woven Globe String Lights [9] ($20) come in. Six feet of glowing orbs to drape across your headboard or mantle? Sign us up!
Ceramic Pineapple Essential Oil Diffuser
This Ceramic Pineapple Essential Oil Diffuser [10] ($35) is basically two-in-one — not only can it diffuse mood-boosting essential oils (see ya, stress!), but it also makes for a great desktop decoration.