
Pillar candles are known for their short, cylindrical shape and increased burn time. Unlike taper candles that require a holder to stand upright, pillar candles are designed to stand on their own due to their wider base. However, they can be messy as they burn and may cause wax to drip onto surfaces. Therefore, while not necessary, it is recommended to use a tray or candle holder to prevent wax from spreading and protect furniture.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Need for a holder | Pillar candles can stand on their own without a holder due to their broad base. |
| Reasons for using a holder | To protect furniture from heat and wax spills, and to contain the mess caused by the wax. |
| Alternatives to a holder | A tray or a plate under the candle. |
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What You'll Learn

Pillar candles are self-supporting
Pillar candles are tall and sturdy, and their long-burning warm glow comes from a proprietary blend of waxes. They are denser than other candles, which means they last longer. A six-inch-tall pillar candle with a diameter of three inches can burn for up to 75 hours. They come in a wide range of sizes and colours, and they are a popular choice for adding warmth and style to any space.
While pillar candles do not require a holder, some people prefer to use one to protect furniture from heat and wax spills. A tray for a candle can help keep the wax from spreading and can also be used to display the candle. If you are worried about wax dripping, you can also dip the candle in a strong saltwater solution before burning it, or you can store it in a freezer.
Pillar candles are a great choice for centrepieces, especially when paired with a decorative candle holder. They are a crowd favourite due to their increased burn time and versatility.
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Candle holders add style and protect furniture
Pillar candles are known for their short, cylindrical shape and their ability to stand on their own due to their wide base. They are a popular choice for adding warmth and style to any space and are often used in hospitality venues such as hotels and restaurants. Their long burn time, durability, and versatility make them a great option for centrepieces.
While pillar candles can stand on their own, using a candle holder or tray can add style and elegance to your space. Candle holders come in various materials, including stone, wood, marble, metal, and glass, and can be paired with different candle styles and colours to create a complete look. For example, black pillar candle holders can make a bold statement, especially when paired with showstopping candles.
More importantly, candle holders or trays are essential for protecting your furniture from heat and wax spills. As pillar candles burn, they can drip wax, and without a holder or tray, this wax can end up on your furniture or other surfaces. A candle holder or tray will catch the wax drips and make cleanup easier.
Additionally, candle holders can help protect candles from drafts in outdoor settings, ensuring the candle burns slowly and evenly. Lantern-style candle holders, for instance, have been a part of candle culture for a long time and can add a rustic look to your space.
Overall, while pillar candles can stand on their own, using a candle holder or tray provides both functional and aesthetic benefits, helping to protect your furniture and enhance the style of your space.
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Trays and plates catch wax drips
Although pillar candles are designed to stand on their own without the need for a holder, you may want to consider placing them on a tray or plate to catch any wax drips. This is especially important if you're worried about wax dripping onto your furniture or other surfaces. Trays and plates can also help to display your pillar candles beautifully and keep them secure.
There are a variety of trays and plates available specifically for candles, and they can be a great way to add a decorative touch to your space while also being functional. These candle trays can be found in various designs and materials, such as metal, wood, or glass, to suit your style and needs. They are designed to provide a flat, even surface for your pillar candles, ensuring stability and preventing them from being knocked over.
In addition to catching wax drips, candle trays offer a designated space for your pillar candles, helping to contain the mess and making clean-up easier. The wax that drips onto the tray can be easily removed by running hot water over it, melting the wax, and then wiping it away with a clean cloth. This simple maintenance step will keep your candle setup looking neat and tidy.
When choosing a tray or plate for your pillar candles, consider the size and number of candles you plan to use. Opt for a tray that is large enough to accommodate your candles comfortably and allow for any wax drippings. Additionally, if you're concerned about mess, you may want to explore drip-free candles or consider storing your candles in a freezer to minimize wax dripping.
By using trays and plates to catch wax drips, you can enjoy your pillar candles without the worry of cleaning wax spills. These functional and decorative accessories elevate your candle display while also protecting your surfaces and minimizing the mess. Whether you choose a simple design or a more ornate tray, you can be assured that it will enhance the overall aesthetic of your candle arrangement.
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Candle care can reduce mess
While pillar candles are designed to stand on their own and do not need a holder, using one can help reduce mess and protect your furniture from heat and wax spills. A candle holder or tray can also elevate the look of your pillar candle, making it a decorative centrepiece.
Pillar candles are characterised by their thick base, which ensures stability on most flat surfaces. However, as they are made with denser wax, they can be messier than other candles. To reduce mess, you can:
- Place your pillar candle on a tray or candle holder to catch any wax drips.
- Buy drip-free candles.
- Dip the candles in a strong saltwater solution to help prevent dripping.
- Store your candles in a freezer to prevent wax from dripping easily.
- Place your pillar candle on a flat, even surface to prevent it from being knocked over.
- Trim the wick before every use.
- Avoid burning the last 2cm of the candle.
If you choose to use a candle holder, there are various styles to choose from, including lanterns, hurricane candle holders, and rustic candle dishes. Candle holders can be made from a variety of materials, such as stone, wood, marble, metal, or glass, and can add a decorative touch to your space.
In addition to reducing mess, candle holders can also enhance the burn of your pillar candle. For example, lanterns with a glass covering can protect the candle from drafts, which would otherwise cause the candle to burn too quickly.
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Pillar candles are a cost-effective choice
Pillar candles are designed to stand on their own, and so do not require a holder. However, a holder or tray can help to protect furniture from heat and wax spills. A tray can also help to display the candles beautifully. If you are going to get a tray for your pillar candles, it is a good idea to buy drip-free candles. You can also dip the candles in a strong saltwater solution to prevent dripping, or store them in a freezer.
There are many different types of candle holders, including stone, wood, marble, metal, and glass. The style of the holder can also be chosen to match the setting, with black pillar candle holders making a bold and elegant statement, and lantern-style holders providing a rustic look.
Pillar candles are a great choice for centrepieces, especially when paired with a decorative candle holder. They come in a wide range of sizes, colours, and designs, and can add warmth and style to any space.
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Frequently asked questions
No, pillar candles are designed to stand on their own. However, a holder or tray is recommended to protect furniture from heat and wax spills.
A pillar candle holder can add to the aesthetic of the candle, as well as protecting surfaces from wax spills.
Using a holder means more cleaning, and it can be difficult to find a holder that suits the candle and the space.
Yes, a tray or plate can be used to catch wax drips and protect surfaces.











































