Incense comes in a few main forms: sticks, cones, backflow cones and resin. If you are new, start with sticks and a simple holder, pick a scent family you already like, and burn it in a ventilated room away from anything flammable.
What are the main types of incense?
Browse everything in our incense collection, or start with the format that suits your space.
- Incense sticks: a thin stick you stand in a holder. Many have a bamboo core. See the incense sticks collection.
- Incense cones: a compact cone you set on a heat-safe dish. They burn down from the tip and suit small spaces. See the incense cone collection.
- Backflow cones: hollow cones that make smoke flow downward in a matching burner. Read how backflow incense works and browse the backflow cones.
- Resin incense: made from tree resins for a deeper, sweeter smoke. Check each product page for how it is meant to be burned. See the resin incense collection.
How do I choose a scent?
Start from scents you already enjoy. Woody scents such as sandalwood or palo santo feel warm and grounding. Floral scents such as rose, lavender and ylang ylang feel soft. Sweet scents such as vanilla and apple feel cozy. Fresh and herbal scents such as citronella and eucalyptus feel bright. For a first try, a single stick of a scent costs little, so sample a few. Good starting points include Hem Palo Santo, Hem Red Apple and Hem Citronella. If a classic Indian scent appeals, read our Nag Champa guide.
What do I need to get started?
You need four things: incense, a lighter or match, a holder that catches the ash, and a heat-resistant surface. Holders range from simple ash-catching boards to brass and wooden burners. See the incense holder and burner collection, the brass incense burners and the wooden incense burners.
How long does incense burn?
It depends on the size of the stick or cone and on what it is made from, so there is no single answer. Check the product page for the maker's stated burn time. For example, our Hem Red Apple page says each stick burns for about forty-five minutes.
Staying safe
Burn incense in a ventilated room. Keep it away from curtains, paper and other flammable things. Keep it out of reach of children and pets, and never leave it burning unattended. Smoke can bother some people, especially anyone with asthma or breathing problems, so stop if it causes irritation and ask a doctor if you are unsure. Incense is used for scent and ritual and is not a treatment for any condition.
Related reading
- Backflow Incense Not Working? How It Works and 6 Fixes
- Nag Champa Incense: What It Smells Like and How to Choose Between Satya, Hem and More
Frequently asked questions
What is the best incense for a beginner?
Incense sticks are the easiest to start with. They need only a simple holder, and a single stick is enough for a small room.
How long does incense burn?
It varies with the size and make. Check the maker's stated burn time on the product page. For example, our Hem Red Apple page says each stick burns about forty-five minutes.
Do I need a special holder?
Sticks need a holder that catches ash. Cones need a heat-safe dish. Backflow cones need a matching backflow burner.
Is it safe to burn incense indoors?
Yes if you ventilate the room and keep it away from flammable things, but the smoke can irritate some people, especially those with breathing problems.
This guide is general information about fragrance, aromatherapy and home use. It is not medical advice.
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