An incense burner is used to safely release soothing aromas through the burning of incense. In many cases, an incense holder is also used as a decorative element. There are several different types of incense burners that are popular in the market. This guide covers how to stock the best incense burning products for consumers in 2025.
Table of Contents
Why incense burners have business potential
The different types of incense burners
1. Incense stick holders
2. Incense bowls
3. Cone incense burners
4. Incense fountains
What to look for when selecting incense burners
1. Type of incense
2. Material
3. Design
Summary
Why incense burners have business potential
Globally, the incense market was valued at USD 3.69 billion in 2024, and is expected to expand to USD 5.51 billion by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.04% within the forecast period.
The market is primarily driven by a rise in spirituality and wellness trends. As consumers practice mindfulness activities like meditation and yoga, burning incense is often used to enhance the experience through aromatherapy.
There is also a growing trend in home décor as consumers increasingly spend on decorative products. Many incense burners are designed with aesthetics in mind to give interior spaces an artistic element.
The different types of incense burners
1. Incense stick holders
One of the most common types of incense burners is designed to hold incense sticks. The incense stick is generally placed into a small hole in the incense stick burner, allowing the incense to burn upright and the ashes from the end to fall onto an ash catcher tray or dish in the holder.
An incense holder for sticks can come in a variety of styles, ranging from simple trays to elaborate figurines. Incense stick holders are typically made from materials like wood, ceramic, metal, or stone.
2. Incense bowls
Incense bowls are a more traditional form of burners, based on the design of censers, which are incense burners used in ancient times during religious and ceremonial settings. An incense bowl often comes with a lid that allows the smoke to escape through the top.
The design of an incense pot is most suitable for resin incense or loose incense. However, the bowl can also be filled with stones or sand to hold an incense stick upright while it is burning.
3. Cone incense burners
Some incense is compressed into small pellets that are in the shape of cones. Incense cone burners are specifically designed to hold cone incense and can come in a variety of designs.
An incense cone may be placed at the bottom of a cone incense burner to allow the smoke to rise through the top. Alternatively, a backflow incense burner is fashioned so the cone can be placed at the top, with the smoke forced downwards into unique spirals and patterns that complement the design of the burner.
4. Incense fountains
A backflow incense burner, also known as a waterfall incense burner or incense fountain, is designed so that incense smoke flows in a downwards direction instead of upwards.
This unique feature of incense waterfall burners results in many creative designs. Many incense smoke fountains are built in the shape of a mountain or water fountain, where the smoke gives off the appearance of flowing water. Some fountain incense burners may also use the smoke to enhance the artistry of figurines or statues.
What to look for when selecting incense burners
1. Type of incense
An important consideration when selecting an incense burner is the type of incense the burner is intended to hold. There are incense holders that are compatible with different types of incense, such as stick, cone, resin, or coil incense.
Stick incense holders are one of the most common variations, but loose incense and incense cones are also popular among users. A wide selection of burners for different types of incense will ensure the most versatile product range.
2. Material
The material of a burner for incense influences its durability and appearance. There are many different materials that can be used for incense containers, such as ceramic, stone, metal, and wood.
Ceramic and stone are often more durable and heat-resistant, while wooden incense holders may be suitable for a natural and rustic aesthetic. The color and finish of the material, such as matte, glossy, or brushed, can also give the burner its own appeal.
3. Design
As incense burners are often used as a way to create an atmosphere of health and wellness, the overall aesthetic of an incense burning holder is a crucial factor to consider. Incense burner pots can range from simple functional pieces to elaborate works of art.
Some incense holders will come with a simple design, while others may come with ornate or nature-themed motifs. Some customers may also be interested in figurines that have a spiritual or cultural reference.
Summary
There are several sorts of incense burners available in the market, including incense stick holders, incense bowls, cone incense burners, and incense fountains. Regardless of product type, the key characteristics of incense holders include compatibility with an incense type, material, and design.
An understanding of what to consider when stocking incense burners in 2025 is important for developing successful product ranges. With this comprehensive guide to incense burners, businesses are advised to consider how they can capitalize on this aroma trend.
