Incense cones are a popular and effective way to bring the soothing, aromatic properties of incense into your space. Smaller and more concentrated than incense sticks, incense cones are easy to use and offer a powerful fragrance. Whether you’re using them for meditation, relaxation, or simply to freshen your space, here’s a simple guide on how to use incense cones effectively. 

Choose Your Incense Cone 

Incense cones come in a variety of scents, from earthy and woody to floral and uplifting. Choose a scent that matches the mood or energy you wish to create. For relaxation, scents like lavender or sandalwood are excellent, while something like frankincense or patchouli is ideal for spiritual practices. 

Prepare Your Burner 

You will need a heat-resistant incense holder or burner designed for cones. Incense cones burn from the bottom up, so your burner should have a flat surface where the cone can sit securely. Ensure the holder is on a stable, heatproof surface and away from flammable items like curtains or papers. 

Light the Tip of the Incense Cone 

• Hold the incense cone by its wider base. 

• Light the pointed tip of the cone using a lighter or match. 

• Allow the flame to catch and burn for about 5-10 seconds. 

• Blow out the flame gently, leaving the tip smouldering. The cone should start to release fragrant smoke from the top. If it doesn’t, relight the tip and try again. 

Place the Cone on the Burner 

Once the cone is smouldering, place it on your incense burner with the pointed end facing up. The smoke will rise from the tip and spread through the air, filling your space with the selected aroma. Make sure the cone is securely placed on the burner to catch any falling ash. 

Let the Incense Cone Burn 

Incense cones generally burn for 20 to 30 minutes, depending on their size. As the cone burns from the bottom up, it will release a concentrated aroma that lingers in the room. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the calming scent during your practice, meditation, or daily routine. 

Extinguish the Incense Cone (If needed) 

If you wish to stop the incense before it burns completely, you can extinguish the cone by carefully pressing the smouldering tip against a heatproof surface or using a small amount of sand or water. Make sure it’s fully extinguished before leaving it unattended. 

Clean Up the Ash 

Once the cone has finished burning, it will leave a small pile of ash at its base. Allow the ash to cool completely before disposing of it and clean the burner to prevent buildup. 

Common Uses for Incense Cones: 

• Meditation: Incense cones can help create a serene and focused atmosphere during meditation or yoga practice. 

• Relaxation: The strong, concentrated scent of incense cones is perfect for relaxation, helping to reduce stress and promote a peaceful mindset. 

• Cleansing: Like smudging, incense cones can be used to clear negative energy from a room or space. 

Using incense cones is a simple and effective way to enjoy a rich, aromatic experience. By following these steps—lighting the tip, placing the cone in a proper holder, and enjoying the fragrant smoke—you can elevate your space and mood with ease. Whether for spiritual practice, relaxation, or energy cleansing, incense cones offer a concentrated and powerful aroma that fills your space with serenity. 

Author: Coralee Roberts

Coralee is a passionate health and wellness advocate with a deep understanding of holistic living. Driven by a desire to empower herself and others to achieve optimal health and well-being, she has been practicing smudging and energy cleansing for several years. In 2024, Coralee decided to formalize her knowledge and completed a certificate in smudging, deepening her understanding of this transformative practice. Through her writing and teachings, Coralee aims to inspire and support others on their own paths towards wellness and resilience.