Brooke Martin
Candles are a popular home décor item, but do they go bad? The short answer is yes, candles do expire. However, the lifespan of a candle depends on various factors such as the type of wax used, the presence of fragrance or dyes, and storage conditions. While some candles, like those made of paraffin wax, can last indefinitely when stored properly, others like soy or coconut wax candles are best used within one to two years. Beeswax candles are known to have extremely long shelf lives, with some found in sunken ships still burning beautifully after drying out the wick. The fragrance and colour of candles can degrade over time, and improper storage can accelerate this process. To extend the life of your candles, it is recommended to store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and strong scents.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Lifespan | Depends on the type of wax used, how it's stored, and whether it has been lit. Paraffin wax candles can last almost indefinitely when stored properly, while soy and coconut wax candles are best used within 1-2 years. Beeswax candles can last several years. |
| Scent | Fragrance tends to dissipate over time, especially if the candle is not stored properly. Scent degradation happens gradually and is almost unnoticeable for the first 6 months to a year. Older candles may not smell as strong as when they were first purchased. |
| Colour | Colour degradation can occur over time, with pure white candle wax turning yellow or developing a "bloomed" appearance. |
| Burn time | The amount of time a candle can burn after it has been lit depends on the size of the candle, the type of wax, and the number of wicks. |
| Expiration | Candles do not typically have an expiration date, but they can go bad over time. Signs of expiration include unpleasant smells, discolouration, and shorter burn time. |
| Storage | To extend the life of candles, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, strong scents, and humidity. Keep them stored upright with a lid or cover to prevent dust and preserve the scent. |
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What You'll Learn
- Scented candles: Fragrance dissipates over time, especially if stored incorrectly
- Beeswax candles: Unlike other candles, beeswax candles never expire
- Paraffin wax candles: These can last almost indefinitely when stored properly
- Soy candles: Best used within a year or two
- How to tell if a candle has expired: Check for changes in colour, scent, dryness and yellowing?
Scented candles: Fragrance dissipates over time, especially if stored incorrectly
While candles do not exactly "expire", their fragrance can degrade over time, especially if they are stored incorrectly.
The scent of a candle is derived from fragrance oils, which can break down and cause the scent intensity to decrease. This means that the aroma may be less noticeable when the candle is burned. The degradation of fragrance oils happens very gradually and is almost unnoticeable for the first 6 months to a year. However, it is a continuous process, and the longer a candle is stored, the less scent it will produce when burned. Therefore, to enjoy the strongest fragrance, it is best to burn a candle as soon as possible after purchasing it.
Proper storage is essential to preserving a candle's scent. Candles should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heaters, and other sources of heat. Heat and light can cause fragrance oils to evaporate, and humidity can affect the wax, causing the scent to fade more quickly. Additionally, UV rays can cause the candle colour to fade. To prevent air exposure, which can weaken the fragrance over time, it is recommended to keep candles in their original packaging or an airtight container when not in use.
The type of wax and fragrance used also play a significant role in scent retention. Soy wax, for example, is known for its clean, slow burn and ability to hold fragrance well, providing a steady scent experience. On the other hand, paraffin wax has a stronger initial scent throw but may not last as long as soy wax. Natural fragrances also tend to degrade faster than synthetic ones, although this does not make synthetic fragrances inherently better. To get the best of both worlds, opt for candles that combine natural essential oils with perfume-quality fragrances.
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Beeswax candles: Unlike other candles, beeswax candles never expire
Beeswax candles are unique in that they never expire. They can be stored for long periods without degrading, whereas candles made from other types of wax will eventually go bad. This is because beeswax contains propolis, a substance with well-known preservative effects that was even used by the ancient Egyptians to mummify dead bodies.
Beeswax candles are also distinct from other candles in that they improve with age. Over time, beeswax candles develop a film-like substance on their surface called 'bloom'. This is an indication that they are made from pure beeswax, and many people appreciate the frosty, bloomed look. If you prefer a shinier appearance, you can simply polish the candle with a soft cloth.
While beeswax candles do not have an expiry date, their fragrance and colour can fade over time, and they may burn less evenly. This is especially true if they are not stored correctly. To extend the life of a beeswax candle, it should be wrapped well and stored in a cool, dry place away from any light sources.
Unlike beeswax candles, soy and coconut wax candles are natural or organic materials that can expire. These types of candles typically last between one and two years unburned. Paraffin wax candles, on the other hand, can last almost indefinitely when stored properly.
In summary, beeswax candles are a unique type of candle that never expires. They can be stored for extended periods without degrading, and their appearance often improves with age. However, proper storage is essential to prevent the fragrance and colour from fading and to ensure even burning.
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Paraffin wax candles: These can last almost indefinitely when stored properly
Paraffin wax candles have an impressive shelf life and can last almost indefinitely when stored properly. This is because paraffin wax is a synthetic wax, and unlike natural waxes, it does not derive its elements from plants or other natural resources, which eventually deteriorate over time.
To ensure that paraffin wax candles last as long as possible, it is important to store them correctly. Firstly, they should be kept in a cool, dry, and dark place, as natural sunlight can cause chemical reactions within the wax due to harmful UV rays. A room-temperature environment is ideal, as paraffin wax has a lower melting point than other waxes, and a warm, closed environment with no airflow could cause the wax to melt within its packaging.
Additionally, it is important to keep the wax sealed to delay expiration. This will prevent dirt and dust from accumulating on the wax, which can also affect its performance. While paraffin wax candles may last a long time, their fragrance and colour may fade over time due to the natural deterioration of their organic elements. This process is gradual and may be unnoticeable for the first six months to a year, but it is always occurring. As a result, the longer a paraffin wax candle is stored, the less scent it will produce when eventually burned.
Overall, when it comes to paraffin wax candles, proper storage is key to ensuring their longevity. By keeping them in a cool, dark, and sealed environment, these candles can last for many years, if not indefinitely.
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Soy candles: Best used within a year or two
While candles do not have an exact expiration date, they can go bad over time. The lifetime of a candle depends on the type of wax used and how it is stored. Soy candles, for example, are best used within a year or two. This is because soy wax is a natural material, and like coconut wax, it has a slightly shorter shelf life than paraffin wax.
Soy wax is a popular choice for candle makers due to its environmentally friendly properties. However, the natural ingredients in soy wax candles can degrade over time, causing the candle to lose its scent and colour. This process is called scent degradation, and it happens gradually, with the first six months to a year being almost unnoticeable, depending on the type of wax and the quality of fragrance oils used.
To prevent soy candles from going bad, it is important to store them correctly. Soy candles should be kept in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, as UV rays can cause the wax to melt and discolour. Strong scents should also be avoided, as candles can absorb other smells. Additionally, storing candles upright and using a lid or cover can help to preserve the scent and prevent dust and debris from accumulating.
While soy candles are best used within a year or two, they can still be enjoyed after this time. Older candles may not have the same strong fragrance, but the scent will still be present, and the candle will burn safely. However, if a candle has an unpleasant or overpowering smell or a significantly shorter burn time, it is best to dispose of it properly.
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How to tell if a candle has expired: Check for changes in colour, scent, dryness and yellowing
While candles do not have an exact expiration date, they can go bad over time. The lifetime of a candle depends on the type of wax used and how it is stored.
To determine whether a candle has expired, check for changes in colour, scent, dryness, and yellowing. Firstly, observe the candle's colour. If it has faded or changed from its original shade, it is likely expired. For example, if a bright red candle has now turned a sickly salmon colour, it has probably gone bad. While the candle may still burn, it will not be as aesthetically pleasing.
Secondly, check the scent of the candle. Scent degradation occurs gradually, and the longer a candle is stored, the less scent it will produce when burned. If the fragrance is challenging to detect or has changed, the candle may be past its prime. Gently scratch the surface, and if there is still no scent, it has likely expired.
Thirdly, examine the candle for dryness and yellowing. If the candle was initially colourless and has now turned yellow or has dry, cracked wax, it has probably expired.
Finally, it is important to note that candles made with natural wax blends, such as soy or coconut, tend to have a shorter shelf life than those made with paraffin wax. Beeswax candles are an exception, as they can last several years in storage.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, candles do expire. However, the lifetime of a candle depends on the type of wax used and how it is stored. Beeswax candles, for example, can last several years in storage. On the other hand, soy and coconut wax candles are best used within a year or two.
There are a few signs that indicate a candle has expired. Firstly, observe the candle's colour. If it has faded or changed, it is likely expired. Secondly, observe if there is any dryness or yellowing, especially if the candle was originally colourless. Lastly, check the fragrance. If the scent is weak or non-existent, it may be past its prime.
To extend the life of your candles, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and strong scents. Additionally, keep them stored upright and use a lid or cover to prevent dust and preserve the scent.
