Tyler Brooks
Leaving candles in a hot car is a common problem, and it can result in partial or total melting. The temperature inside a car can reach 130-170 °F when the outside temperature is only 80-100 °F. The melting point of soy wax is around 40°C, so there is a great chance that a soy candle will melt if left in a car. The size and type of candle, the packaging, and the temperature inside the vehicle will also influence how quickly a candle melts. There are ways to fix a melted candle, such as using a heat gun, but it is best to avoid the issue by storing candles in cool, shaded areas, or opting for candles made from waxes with higher melting points.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Melting point of soy wax | 40°C (104°F) |
| Melting point of other waxes | Coconut wax: 50°C (122°F), Paraffin wax: 60-65°C (130-154°F), Beeswax: 60-65°C |
| Effect of temperature on candles | Candles may melt, "sweat", or deform in high temperatures. Extreme cold may cause the wax to shrink and pull away from its container. |
| Preventing melting in cars | Store candles in cardboard, use Ultraviolet Light Absorbers (UVLAs), add stearic acid to increase the melting point, or use alternative waxes with higher melting points (palm, paraffin, or beeswax). |
| Fixing a melted candle | Reheat and remould the wax, use a heat gun to melt and smooth the surface, or add wax to fill imperfections. |
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What You'll Learn
Soy candles melt at 40°C
Soy candles typically have a low melting point, with some sources stating that they melt at around 40°C. This means that they are prone to melting in hot weather, and it is quite possible for them to melt in a car. The ideal temperature to melt soy wax for candles is said to be between 77°C and 82°C, but this range is much higher than the temperature in a hot car. Therefore, it is likely that a soy candle will melt in a car if the temperature is above 40°C.
The melting point of soy wax varies depending on the blend, with some sources stating that it can range from 49°C to 82°C. This means that some soy candles may have a higher melting point and be less likely to melt in a hot car. However, it is important to note that even if the soy candle does not completely melt, it may still be damaged by the heat. Extreme heat can cause the candle to "sweat," where the fragrance oil separates from the wax and pools on top, creating a fire hazard.
To prevent soy candles from melting in a car, it is recommended to choose a wax with a higher melting point, such as palm, paraffin, or beeswax. Alternatively, one can create a blend by adding another wax to the soy wax, such as 30% beeswax and 70% soy wax, to increase the melting point. Storing candles at room temperature, around 23°C, and out of direct sunlight is the best way to ensure their longevity.
If a soy candle does melt in a car, it may be possible to fix it. If the candle is in a container and has not spilled, it can be placed on a flat surface in a cooler environment to harden again. One may also use a clothes peg attached to a wooden skewer to centre the wick as the candle cools. For unevenly melted candles, a heat gun can be used to reset the wax, although this can be time-consuming.
In summary, soy candles typically melt at around 40°C, and temperatures above this in a car are likely to cause melting. The melting point can vary depending on the blend, and extreme heat can cause other types of damage to the candle. To prevent melting, choose a wax with a higher melting point or create a blend. If a soy candle does melt in a car, there are some possible fixes, but it is best to avoid leaving them in hot environments.
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Containers and jars insulate candles
Soy candles typically melt at temperatures above 40 °C (104 °F). Leaving a soy candle in a hot car will likely damage it, and the worst-case scenario is that the candle will melt and spill out of its container. However, if the candle is in a container, it may not be ruined. The container insulates the candle, preventing the wax from spilling.
Containers and jars can provide insulation for candles, protecting them from damage due to extreme temperatures. When choosing a container for a candle, it is essential to consider safety and functionality. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Heat Resistance: Select a container made from heat-resistant material, such as borosilicate glass, thick glass, or reinforced glass. These materials can withstand high temperatures and are less prone to thermal shock, ensuring the container doesn't crack or shatter.
- Shape: Opt for containers with a cylindrical shape or a narrower top than the bottom. This shape helps to direct the heat upwards and prevents the container from getting too hot, reducing the risk of cracking.
- Material Options: Glass, ceramic, and metal containers are all suitable options. Glass jars, especially those designed for candles, can withstand high heat and reliably hold wax. Ceramic containers should be coated with a decoupage medium to prevent leaks. Metal tins are also heat-resistant and safe to use.
- Safety Considerations: Ensure the container is resistant to fire, leaks, and cracks. Avoid using containers that can burn, as this could create a fire hazard if hot wax leaks out.
- Opaque Containers: Choose opaque containers, such as candle tins or ceramic jars, to hide imperfections or discolouration that may form on the sides of the container.
- Size: Consider the size of the container in relation to the wick. For larger containers, you may need to use multiple wicks to ensure even burning.
- Style: While safety is a priority, you can also choose containers that suit your style and give your candles character.
By selecting the right containers and jars, you can insulate your candles and protect them from the damaging effects of heat. Remember to follow safety guidelines and choose containers that are specifically designed for candle use.
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Pillar candles are more resistant to melting
Soy candles typically melt at around 40°C, so it is likely that leaving one in a car on a hot day will result in the candle melting and spilling out of its container. This is not only messy but also dangerous, as the exposed and pooled fragrance oil is highly flammable.
Pillar candles, on the other hand, are more resistant to melting. They are crafted from high-quality food-grade wax, which is denser and less likely to melt quickly. The wax is combined with a cotton wick, which results in a clean, smokeless, and long-lasting burn. The average burn time for a pillar candle is 55 hours, which is significantly longer than most other common candles.
The longevity of a pillar candle is also influenced by how evenly it is burned. To ensure an even burn, it is important to keep the wick trimmed to 1/4 of an inch and to remove any wick trimmings before lighting. For the first burn, it is recommended to let the candle burn for one hour per diameter inch, then extinguish the flame and let it cool completely. For example, if the pillar candle has a diameter of 3 inches, the first burn should last 3 hours.
Pillar candles are also less likely to drip, although some customers have reported mixed experiences with this. While some claim that the candles do not drip at all, others have found that they drip everywhere, including onto the candle holders. However, the majority of reviews for pillar candles mention that they are well-made, long-lasting, and offer good value for money.
Overall, pillar candles are more resistant to melting than soy candles due to their denser wax composition and longer burn time.
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Ultraviolet light absorbers (UVLAs) protect candles
Soy candles typically melt at temperatures above 40 °C (104 °F). Leaving a candle in a car during hot weather could therefore cause it to melt and spill out of its container. Conversely, in cold weather, a candle in a glass jar or metal tin may shrink and pull away from its container.
Ultraviolet light is the worst enemy of candles. UV inhibitors, or Ultraviolet Light Absorbers (UVLAs), are added to coloured and scented wax blends to help reduce degradation and fading caused by exposure to fluorescent light and sunlight. UVLAs protect candles by absorbing more ultraviolet light or energy than the candle itself. They also prevent the premature fading of coloured candles and stop white candles from yellowing after prolonged exposure to light.
UVLAs are particularly useful for candles that are sold outdoors or in naturally lit stores, as they reinforce the design by preventing discolouration and scent loss. They are also used to prevent oxidation caused by light. HALS (hindered amine light stabilizers) are another type of UV inhibitor that fights photo-oxidation.
Candle makers can use UVLAs to extend the life and beauty of their candles. Common UVLAs include benzophenone and benzotriazole, which are recommended to be used together to provide protection across different wavelength regions. While a candle can never be totally protected from sunlight, UVLAs are an effective way to reduce the impact of UV light.
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Heat guns can fix melted candles
Soy candles have a low melting point, around 40°C, and will melt in temperatures above 40°C/104°F. If left in a car, a soy candle will likely melt and spill out of its container, or sweat, where the fragrance oil separates from the wax.
Heat guns are an effective way to fix a melted candle. They can be used to re-melt the top layer of a candle to create a smooth appearance and fill in any sinkholes or cavities. They can also be used to heat the container before pouring in hot wax to prevent shrinkage and ensure the candle sets evenly. Heat guns are particularly useful for soy candles, as they can mitigate the undesirable appearance of irregular crystals (known as "frosting") that frequently form due to the wax's sensitivity to temperature and humidity.
It is important to note that heat guns operate at very high temperatures, ranging from 750°F to 1,000°F. Therefore, it is crucial to be cautious when using a heat gun to fix a melted candle. Avoid applying too much direct heat to the wick, as this can melt the glue under the tab or the wax coating off the wick. Scorching hot containers are dangerous and unnecessary.
Additionally, heat guns can be used to clean candle-making supplies. Simply hold the heat gun over any dirty moulds or wicks, and the wax will melt away, making it easy to wipe up with kitchen roll.
Overall, heat guns are a versatile tool for candle makers, offering a quick and easy way to fix melted candles, create smooth surfaces, and clean supplies. However, it is important to use them with caution to avoid overheating and potential safety hazards.
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Frequently asked questions
If your soy candle melts in your car, it could spill out of its container. If it is a pillar candle, it may melt in its packaging. The candle may also sweat, causing the fragrance oil to separate from the wax and pool on top of the candle, creating a fire hazard.
To prevent your soy candle from melting in your car, you can store it in an egg carton, which acts as an insulator to keep the candle cool. You can also add certain additives to the candle, such as stearic acid, which increases the melting point of the wax.
If your soy candle has already melted, you can try to fix it by reheating the wax and pouring it slowly over the top of the candle to fill in any holes and create a smooth top. You can also use a heat gun to melt the surface and fill in any imperfections.
