Maddie James
Candles do not have a hard expiration date, but they do degrade over time. The lifespan of a candle depends on the type of wax used and how it is stored. Organic, vegetable-based waxes like soy and coconut are more prone to breaking down over time, while beeswax candles are known to last for several years, even centuries. The scent and colour of candles can fade with time due to factors like UV light exposure and improper storage. Proper candle care, such as storing them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and strong scents, can extend the life of candles and maintain their quality.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Do candles expire? | Yes, candles do expire. |
| How long do candles last? | Candles made with natural soy or coconut wax blends have a shorter shelf life than paraffin candles. Beeswax candles can last several years in storage. |
| How to identify if a candle has expired? | Check the fragrance. If the fragrance is not as strong as it used to be, or if it has changed, the candle has expired. Observe the candle's color. If the color has faded or changed, it is a sign of expiration. |
| How to extend the life of a candle? | Keep it out of direct sunlight. Store it in a cool, dry place. Keep it away from strong scents. Store it upright. Use a lid or cover. |
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What You'll Learn
Candles don't have a hard expiration date
Candles do not have a hard expiration date, but they do degrade over time. The rate of degradation depends on the type of wax used and how the candle is stored. Organic, vegetable-based waxes like soy and coconut are more prone to breaking down over time. Once they start to degrade, the wick may become clogged, and the candle will be difficult to light.
Beeswax candles are known for their longevity and are said to never expire. In fact, beeswax candles that are several hundred years old, found in sunken ships, have been burned beautifully after drying out the wick. Candles made from other types of wax will still burn years later but will be affected by factors such as fragrance load, colourants, and storage conditions.
The scent of a candle is one of the first things to degrade over time. This is due to the constant evaporation of fragrance oil molecules from the wax, even when the candle is not burning. This process, called scent degradation, results in older candles producing a weaker fragrance when burned. While this degradation happens gradually and is almost unnoticeable in the first six months to a year, it is constantly occurring, and the longer a candle is stored, the less scent it will produce when burned.
The colour of candles can also fade over time due to exposure to UV light, causing the dyes in the wax to oxidize and degrade. This can be mitigated by storing candles in a dark place away from direct sunlight or other sources of UV rays. Additionally, following proper candle care guidelines and storing them in a cool, dry place can help extend the life of candles and prevent issues such as melting or loss of fragrance.
While candles do not have a definitive expiration date, taking care of them properly can ensure they remain functional and enjoyable for many years.
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Scent degradation
Scented candles do lose their fragrance over time. This is due to the constant evaporation of fragrance oil molecules from the wax into the air, even when the candle is not lit. This process is called "scent degradation" and it happens very slowly, with the first six months to a year being almost unnoticeable, depending on the type of wax and the quality of the fragrance oils used. However, the longer a scented candle is stored, the less scent it will produce when eventually burned.
The type of wax used in a candle can affect the rate of scent degradation. Natural or organic waxes like soy and coconut are more prone to breaking down over time, which can also affect the candle's ability to burn properly. On the other hand, candles made from paraffin wax can last almost indefinitely when stored properly.
The fragrance type and load can also influence how long a candle's scent lasts. Candles with natural fragrances tend to degrade faster than those with synthetic fragrances. However, candles with carefully crafted fragrance formulas that combine natural essential oils with perfume-quality fragrances can offer a luxurious aromatic experience while still providing a long life for the candle.
Proper storage can help extend the life of a scented candle. Sunlight and heat are known to cause wax discolouration and fragrance degradation, so it is recommended to keep candles in a cool, dark place, preferably in a sealed, airtight container.
Additionally, "nose blindness" can also play a role in the perceived scent degradation of a candle. If you smell the same scent for too long, you may become accustomed to it and no longer perceive it as strongly. Burning a different candle for a while and then switching back can help determine if this is the case.
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Colour fading
To prevent colour fading, it is recommended to store candles away from direct sunlight and bright indoor lights. This can be done by placing candles in a closed cabinet or closet when they are not in use or using a candle topper or a glass cloche. Additionally, some candle makers mix UV protectant additives, such as a UV inhibitor, into the wax to slow down the discoloration process.
The type of dye used in the wax can also affect colour degradation. Candles made with certain dyes may be more susceptible to fading or discolouration. For example, candles made with red dye may fade faster than those made with blue or green dye.
High levels of fragrance can also speed up the colour fading process. Therefore, scented candles may be more prone to colour fading than unscented candles.
While colour fading does not affect the candle's ability to burn, it can make the candle less aesthetically pleasing.
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Natural waxes have a shorter shelf life
Candles do not have a hard expiration date, but they do degrade over time. Natural waxes like soy and coconut are more prone to breaking down over time, and their wicks may become clogged, making them difficult to light. Therefore, natural wax candles tend to have a shorter shelf life than paraffin candles.
To extend the life of natural wax candles, it is important to store them properly. Sunlight is particularly harsh on candles made with essential oils, natural fragrances, and plant-based or organic waxes. It is recommended to keep these candles out of direct sunlight and store them in a closed cabinet or closet when not in use. Exposure to UV light over a long period can cause the dyes in coloured candles to oxidize and degrade, resulting in colour fading. Even indoor lights can emit UV rays, so it is best to avoid keeping candles in direct sunlight.
Additionally, storing natural wax candles in an airtight container can help preserve their fragrance. This is because fragrance oil molecules constantly evaporate from the wax into the air, even when the candle is not burning. By sealing the candle in an airtight container, you can slow down this process and maintain the candle's freshness for longer.
Proper candle care and storage are crucial for extending the life of natural wax candles. It is recommended to store candles in a cool, dry place, as heat and moisture can affect their quality. Keeping them away from strong scents is also important, as candles can absorb other smells. Storing candles upright and using a lid or cover can also help to preserve their condition and scent.
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Proper candle care
Candles are a great way to add warmth and style to any space. However, they do require proper care and attention to ensure they stay in good condition and burn effectively. Here are some detailed tips for proper candle care:
Storage
Candles should be stored in a cool, dark place, such as a cupboard or basement. Avoid places with direct sunlight or UV light exposure, as this can cause the colour of the wax to fade over time. If you want to display your candles as decorative pieces, be aware that the colour may start to fade faster due to light exposure. Additionally, try to store candles in an airtight container to prevent the fragrance from dissipating.
Burning
When lighting a candle for the first time, it is recommended to let it burn for a maximum of 3-4 hours, allowing the entire upper layer of wax to melt. This helps create an even burn throughout the life of the candle and prevents "tunneling," where a rim of hard wax forms that never melts. Always place your candle on a heat-resistant surface or in a candle holder to avoid damage to your furniture. Never leave a burning candle unattended, and keep it out of the reach of children and pets.
Wick Maintenance
Keep the wick trimmed to about 1/4 of an inch before and during use. This helps prevent black residue around the candle jar and ensures a more controlled flame. If your candle has a wooden wick, be sure to extinguish the flame if it grows taller than 1 inch. Once the wax has hardened, trim the wick to remove any black carbon layer.
Extinguishing
To limit excess smoke and prevent hot wax from splattering, use a candle snuffer to put out the candle. Hold the snuffer over the flame for about 5 seconds. Allow the candle to cool before moving it or covering it with a lid.
Candle Holder Maintenance
After removing a spent candle, use a spoon to carefully scrape the melted wax from the holder. You can also use a mug warmer to make this process easier. Clean and dry the holder before placing a new candle inside.
Discontinuing Use
Discontinue burning your candle when there is only about 1/4 of an inch of wax left in the jar. Over-burning can cause excessive sooting or overheating of the jar. If wick clips become exposed or the candle begins to tunnel, you may need to discontinue use and try troubleshooting methods, such as twisting the wick with your fingers to loosen the fibres.
By following these proper candle care tips, you can ensure that your candles burn effectively and safely while also prolonging their lifespan.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, candles do expire. However, they do not have a hard expiration date. Over time, they may become difficult to light or not burn properly. The fragrance and colour may also fade.
Candles made with natural soy or coconut wax blends have a shorter shelf life than those made with paraffin. Beeswax candles can last several years in storage. Most candles will burn at their finest within 1 to 2 years of purchase.
Check the fragrance. If the scent is weak or has changed, the candle may have expired. Observe the colour—if it has faded or changed, the candle is likely old.
Store candles in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and strong scents. Keep them stored upright in an airtight container.
