Proper candle storage is essential to maintaining the quality and longevity of your candles. Whether you’re storing them for a short period or looking to preserve them for years, following specific steps ensures your candles stay in the best condition. This guide will teach you how to store candles safely and effectively to prevent common issues like fading, melting, or fragrance loss.
Why Proper Candle Storage Matters
Candles are sensitive to their environment. Improper storage can lead to various problems, including color fading, melting, and fragrance dissipation. Learning how to store candles correctly extends their shelf life, keeping them looking and smelling fresh for longer.
How to Store Candles: Step-by-Step Guide
Here are some practical tips to help you store your candles safely:
1. Keep Candles Away from Direct Sunlight
Exposure to direct sunlight can cause the color of your candles to fade and the wax to soften. Store candles in a cool, dark place to prevent these issues.
2. Store Candles at Room Temperature
Extreme heat can cause candles to melt, while cold temperatures can cause them to crack. Aim to store candles in a room that stays between 60°F and 80°F to avoid temperature-related issues.
3. Avoid Storing Candles in Humid Areas
Humidity can affect the fragrance of the candle and may lead to sweating, especially for candles made with natural waxes like soy. Keeping candles in a dry environment will help preserve their scent and appearance.
4. Store Taper Candles Upright
Taper candles should always be stored upright to prevent them from bending or warping. Consider using boxes or holders specifically designed for taper candles.
5. Wrap Candles in Tissue Paper
If you’re storing candles for an extended period, wrap them in tissue paper to protect them from dust and scratches. This is especially important for decorative or delicate candles.
6. Cover Candles with Lids or Use Airtight Containers
If your candles come with lids, always replace them after use to preserve the fragrance. Alternatively, store candles in airtight containers to prevent dust and moisture from affecting the wax.
Common Questions About Storing Candles
1. Can You Store Candles in the Freezer?
While some believe that storing candles in the freezer helps them burn longer, this is a myth. Freezing can cause the wax to crack and may affect the candle’s performance. Always store candles at room temperature for the best results.
2. How Long Do Candles Last in Storage?
Candles can last for years when stored properly. However, it’s recommended to use scented candles within a year to ensure the fragrance remains fresh and vibrant.
3. Can Candles Melt in the Car During Hot Weather?
Yes, candles can melt if left in a hot car, especially during the summer. The heat inside a vehicle can reach high temperatures, causing the wax to soften or melt.
4. How Should You Store Scented Candles to Keep Their Fragrance?
To preserve the fragrance of scented candles, store them in an airtight container or replace their lids after use. Keeping them in a cool, dark place will prevent the scent from dissipating over time.
5. Can You Store Candles in the Bathroom?
It’s best to avoid storing candles in the bathroom due to humidity. The moisture in the air can affect the fragrance and cause the wax to sweat, which may compromise the candle’s quality over time.
6. Should You Store Candles in Plastic or Glass Containers?
Glass containers are preferable for long-term candle storage because they are airtight and help preserve the fragrance. Plastic containers can sometimes react with the wax or fragrance oils, so they are less ideal.
7. Can You Store Candles in a Drawer?
Yes, you can store candles in a drawer as long as it is a cool, dry space. Be sure to wrap the candles in tissue paper or keep them in a container to avoid dust accumulation.
8. How Can You Tell If a Candle Has Gone Bad in Storage?
A candle may have gone bad if the scent has significantly weakened, the wax has become discolored, or the surface has developed a powdery or frosted appearance. If the candle doesn’t burn properly, it may be past its prime.
9. Does Temperature Affect the Scent of a Stored Candle?
Yes, extreme temperature fluctuations can cause the fragrance in a candle to fade faster. Storing candles at consistent, moderate temperatures is essential to maintaining their scent.
10. Can Storing Candles in Humid Environments Cause Them to Sweat?
Yes, high humidity can cause candles to sweat, especially those made from natural waxes like soy. Store candles in an airtight container or a low-humidity environment to avoid this issue.
11. Can Candles Lose Their Color If Stored Incorrectly?
Yes, exposure to direct sunlight or UV light can cause candle color to fade over time. To maintain the vibrancy of your candles, store them in a cool, dark place.
12. What Are the Best Materials to Wrap Candles in for Long-Term Storage?
The best materials for wrapping candles are tissue paper, parchment paper, or bubble wrap. These help protect the candles from dust, scratches, and moisture during storage.
13. How Do You Store Candles to Prevent Dust Accumulation?
To prevent dust buildup, always store candles with their lids on or wrap them in protective materials like tissue paper. Alternatively, you can keep them in airtight containers.
14. Can Candles Crack If Stored in Cold Temperatures?
Yes, storing candles in cold temperatures, particularly below freezing, can cause them to crack or become brittle. Always store candles at room temperature to avoid this issue.
15. Can You Store Candles on Wooden Shelves?
Yes, wooden shelves are fine for candle storage as long as the area is cool and dry. Ensure the shelves are not near any heat sources that could soften the wax.
16. How Do You Know If a Candle’s Scent Has Faded in Storage?
You can test if a candle’s scent has faded by gently smelling the wax. If the fragrance is significantly weaker or barely noticeable, the scent has likely dissipated over time.
17. Should Candles Be Stored in Original Packaging?
Yes, storing candles in their original packaging helps protect them from environmental factors such as dust, light, and moisture, especially for scented candles.
18. Is It Better to Store Candles Upright or Laying Down?
Candles should always be stored upright to prevent warping, particularly for taper and pillar candles. Storing them laying down can cause bending or deformation.
19. Can Temperature Fluctuations Affect Stored Candles?
Yes, frequent temperature fluctuations can cause candles to sweat, crack, or lose their scent. A consistent storage temperature will help preserve the quality of the candle.
20. How Can You Keep Candles from Getting Sticky in Storage?
Candles can become sticky if exposed to high humidity. To avoid this, store them in airtight containers or keep them in a low-humidity environment, away from moisture.
Additional Candle Storage Tips
1. Use Candle Boxes
If you have the original packaging, use it to store candles. This packaging is designed to protect the candles from dust, light, and other environmental factors.
2. Rotate Candles Regularly
If you have a large collection, rotate your candles periodically to ensure they all receive even storage conditions and to avoid any one candle being exposed to light or air for too long.
3. Store Pillar Candles to Prevent Warping
To prevent warping, store pillar candles upright in a cool, dark location, ideally wrapped in tissue paper or in a box to prevent damage.
4. Store Leftover Candle Wax
Leftover candle wax can be stored in a sealed container in a cool, dry place to prevent dust and moisture from ruining it. You can later reuse the wax for future candle-making projects.
Final Thoughts on Candle Storage
Proper storage can significantly extend the lifespan of your candles, helping them maintain their color, shape, and fragrance for longer. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your candles are always in excellent condition, whether you’re storing them for personal use or as part of your candle-making business.