Jessie Taylor
Gel candles are candles made from a combination of mineral oil and polymer resin. They are known to burn hotter and slower than traditional wax candles. While they can be used for decoration, they can be dangerous when lit. There are several reports of gel candles exploding due to heat expansion, which causes their glass containers to shatter. Additionally, the high heat of the gel can result in severe burns if it comes into contact with skin. Some gel candles also have plastic pieces or confetti in them, which can be a fire hazard. It is recommended that gel candles are not left unattended or lit for more than one to two hours at a time.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Burning | Gel candles burn hotter than wax candles and can cause fires if left burning too long. |
| Fragrance | Gel candles are made with fragrance blends. |
| Container | The container can get very hot and damage surfaces. If the container is not heat-resistant, it can shatter due to heat expansion. |
| Safety | Gel candles should not be left unattended or within reach of children. |
| Wick | The wick may need to be adjusted to the centre with a thin skewer. |
| Drafts | Keep gel candles away from drafts, ceiling fans, and other sources of airflow. |
| Plastic pieces | Gel candles with plastic pieces should not be burned as they can catch fire. |
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What You'll Learn
Gel candles burn hotter than wax candles
Gel candles are a combination of mineral oil and polymer resin. They are translucent and give off about 40% more glow compared to paraffin and soy waxes. However, they burn hotter than wax candles and pose a significant fire risk.
Gel candles can heat up a lot more than wax candles, and they can explode and start a fire if left burning for too long. The glass containers that house the gel candles sometimes cannot withstand the heat and can shatter. This can cause the hot gel to flow out, potentially resulting in severe burns.
In addition to the risk of burns, gel candles may emit nasty fumes and pose a fire hazard due to the presence of plastic and other decorative pieces. Some people have reported a strong plastic smell from gel candles, even before lighting them.
To ensure safety, it is recommended that gel candles are not left burning unattended or for more than one or two hours at a time. They should also be kept away from drafts, ceiling fans, and other sources of airflow or heat.
While gel candles may offer aesthetic appeal and a longer burn time, their higher burning temperature poses a safety concern that should be carefully considered before use.
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They can cause glass containers to shatter
It is important to exercise caution when using gel candles, as the gel fuel can pose certain safety risks. One of the primary concerns is the potential for the candle to cause the glass container it is burning in to shatter. This is because gel candles burn at a higher temperature than traditional wax candles, and the heat can sometimes cause the glass to break, potentially resulting in injury or fire hazard.
The risk of shattering is particularly high if the gel candle is burned for an extended period of time without interruption. As the gel fuel burns, it emits a significant amount of heat, which can cause the glass container to get very hot. If this heat is not dissipated properly, it can build up and cause the glass to crack or shatter. This is more likely to occur with thinner glass containers or those that are not specifically designed for gel candles.
To minimize the risk of shattering, it is important to always burn gel candles in an appropriate container that is made of thick, heat-resistant glass or another material that can withstand high temperatures. It is also recommended to burn gel candles for shorter periods of time, taking care to extinguish the flame before the gel has completely melted. Allowing the gel to melt completely can increase the temperature of the glass and the risk of shattering.
Additionally, it is important to ensure that gel candles are placed on a heat-resistant surface and are not left unattended. If the flame comes into contact with the side of the glass, it can heat that area unevenly, increasing the likelihood of cracking or shattering. By following these precautions, you can help reduce the risk of accidents and injuries associated with gel candle use.
When burning gel candles, always exercise caution and never leave them unattended. If you notice the glass container starting to get very hot, it is important to extinguish the flame and allow the candle to cool before handling it. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the beauty and ambiance of gel candles while maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for all.
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They may emit fumes
Gel candles are a potential fire hazard, and even if they don't catch fire, they may emit some pretty nasty fumes. The danger with gel candles is not necessarily the gel itself, but the effect of heat on the containers that house them. If the material used to contain the gel is not sufficiently resilient, it can shatter as the concentrated heat of the candle's flame compromises it.
The glass containers that gel candles are typically housed in may not be made strong enough to withstand the heat. As the gel wax burns, it emits more heat than traditional wax candles, and this heat can cause the glass to shatter. This is due to the ordinary expansion of the material in response to heat.
If a gel candle shatters, it can result in burns as the hot gel flows out. Additionally, if the gel candle has a strong plastic smell before being lit, this will only get worse after it is lit, and the fumes may be unpleasant or even dangerous to inhale.
To minimise the risk of fumes, it is recommended to keep gel candles away from draughts, ceiling fans, and other sources of airflow or heat. It is also important to never leave any candle burning unattended, regardless of whether it is a gel candle or a traditional wax candle.
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They can be confused with food
Gel candles are made from a mixture of mineral oil and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which gives them a gel-like appearance. While gel candles are known for their long burn times and vibrant colours, there are some potential dangers associated with their use. One concern is that gel candles can be mistaken for food or candy, especially by children or pets. The gel-like substance may look like jelly or a tasty treat, and the colours and scents added to the candles can enhance this perception. Ingesting even a small amount of the gel candle wax can be harmful. The mineral oil can cause an upset stomach, and the PVC component can lead to more serious health issues. If ingested, the PVC can release dioxins, which are highly toxic. In severe cases, this can lead to organ damage and failure.
To prevent accidental ingestion, it is important to keep gel candles out of reach of children and pets. Store them in a safe place and consider using candle holders or containers that clearly distinguish the gel candle from edible items. Additionally, proper labelling and warnings can help to educate others about the dangers. Another similar concern is the mistaking of gel candle wax for hair gel or other cosmetic products. The gel-like consistency and colourants added to the wax can make it look similar to personal care products. If the gel candle wax comes into contact with the skin or hair, it is important to clean the affected area thoroughly with soap and water. The mineral oil in the gel candle wax can irritate the skin, and the PVC component is not meant for external application.
Inhaling the fumes from burning gel candles can also be harmful. The PVC component, when burned, can release toxic chemicals, including hydrochloric acid, soot, and dioxins. These fumes can cause respiratory issues, especially for individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, such as asthma. To minimise the risk of inhalation, ensure that the area where the gel candles are burned is well-ventilated. It is also important to trim the wick to the appropriate length before lighting the candle, as a shorter wick produces less soot and reduces the amount of harmful chemicals released into the air. Additionally, avoid burning gel candles for extended periods and consider using alternative candle types, such as those made from natural beeswax or soy wax, which are generally considered safer and produce less harmful emissions.
The potential for confusion between gel candles and food highlights the importance of education and awareness. It is crucial to inform children and others around you about the dangers of gel candles and to emphasise that they should not be touched, tasted, or swallowed. Proper disposal of used gel candles is also essential. Melted or partially burned gel candles should not be poured down the drain, as the wax can solidify and cause plumbing issues. Instead, allow the wax to solidify, and dispose of it in the trash. By taking these precautions and staying informed, we can enjoy the aesthetic appeal of gel candles while minimising the potential dangers associated with their use.
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They can be decorative but should never be lit
Gel candles have become increasingly popular due to their aesthetic appeal and unique design. While they can be eye-catching and decorative, it is important to exercise caution and never light them.
Gel candles pose several risks when burned, with numerous reports of fires and injuries. The primary danger is the high heat output of gel wax, which can cause the glass container to shatter from the expansion due to heat. This can result in the hot gel spilling out, leading to severe burns and potential fires. The gel itself can also catch fire, creating a hazardous situation.
Additionally, gel candles with plastic pieces or added decorations can release toxic fumes when burned, posing a health risk. Even without lighting, some gel candles have been reported to emit strong plastic odours, which can be unpleasant and nauseating.
To ensure safety, it is recommended to use gel candles solely for decorative purposes. They can be displayed as attractive ornaments or used with candle warmers to release fragrance without igniting the wick. It is important to always follow candle safety guidelines and never leave any burning candle unattended, regardless of its type.
While gel candles can enhance the ambiance of a room, their potential hazards cannot be overlooked. By refraining from lighting them and taking the necessary precautions, individuals can enjoy their visual appeal while maintaining a safe environment.
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Frequently asked questions
Gel candles pose a safety risk due to the heat they emit. The high heat can cause the container to shatter, and the hot gel can cause burns.
Gel candles are made from mineral oil and polymer resin, which has a higher melting point than wax. This causes gel candles to burn at a higher temperature and for longer.
Gel candles should not be left unattended or within a child's reach. Keep them away from draughts, fans, other heat sources, and flammable objects. Avoid burning the candle to the bottom, as the container can get very hot and cause damage.
The mineral oil used in gel candles is derived from refining crude oil, which can give off a plastic-like smell.
No, gel candles are not eco-friendly. They are made from non-renewable resources and cannot be recycled due to the potential to clog recycling machines.
