Ben Carter
Freezing candles is a popular hack that claims to extend the burn time of candles by slowing down the rate at which the wax melts. While some believe freezing candles can help them last longer, others consider it a myth. This hack suggests that placing candles in the freezer for a few hours before lighting them will cause the wax to burn slower since it is colder. This method is cost-effective and easy to execute, but does it work?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Extends burn time | Yes, by 5 hours in one test |
| Cost | Free |
| Ease of execution | Easy |
| Time in the freezer | 6-8 hours, or 24 hours to be safe |
| Effect on candle | Gets cold to the core, may crack or split |
| Effect on scent | May lose some of its scent |
| Effect on wick | Moisture may get into the wick |
| Effect on jar | May be fine, but rapid temperature changes may cause it to shatter |
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What You'll Learn
Freezing candles to increase burn time
Freezing candles is a popular hack to increase their burn time. The idea is that placing candles in the freezer before lighting them will make them burn slower since the wax will be colder. This should, in theory, increase the time it takes to reach the bottom of the candle, thus making the candle last longer.
There are mixed opinions on how long to freeze a candle before burning it. Some sources suggest freezing a candle for a couple of hours, while others recommend six to eight hours. One source froze their candle for over 24 hours for an experiment. It is worth noting that as soon as a candle is taken out of the freezer, it will start to return to room temperature, with the outside of the candle warming faster than the inside.
Some people believe that freezing candles can save money in the long run, as you won't need to buy as many candles. Freezing candles is also suggested as a way to remove excess wax so that it can be repurposed.
However, there are potential downsides to freezing candles. One risk is that the candle may crack or split due to rapid temperature changes. This can affect the burn quality, and in some cases, the candle may not burn at all. Candles can also lose their scent when placed in the freezer.
To get the most out of your candles, it is recommended to trim the wicks before lighting and to let the candle burn for a sufficiently long time during the first use. Adding salt to a candle also slows down the rate at which the wax melts, resulting in a longer burn time.
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How to avoid candle cracks when freezing
Freezing candles is believed to extend their burn time, but it can also cause them to crack. Here are some tips to avoid candle cracks when freezing:
Avoid Extreme Temperature Changes
Candle wax is sensitive to rapid temperature swings. When candles are subjected to extreme temperature changes, such as being placed in a freezer, the wax can contract and crystallize in different ways, leading to cracks. To prevent this, avoid freezing your candles altogether. Keep them at room temperature and maintain a constant temperature in the room.
Gradual Cooling
If you are making your own candles, allow them to cool down gradually. Rapid cooling can cause cracks on the surface. Maintain a steady temperature of 18°C to 25°C for 48 hours during the cooling process, and then you can store them at slightly cooler temperatures.
Proper Pouring Temperature
Pour your wax mixture at the temperature recommended by the manufacturer. Pouring at the wrong temperature can lead to issues such as cracks, sinkholes, and uneven surfaces. Use a thermometer to ensure the wax is at the correct temperature before pouring.
Avoid Over-Stirring
When making candles, avoid excessive or vigorous stirring. Over-stirring can create small air bubbles that get trapped during the cooling process and lead to cracks. Stir slowly and smoothly to prevent air bubbles from forming.
Maintain Distance Between Candles
When cooling multiple candles, ensure they are not placed too close together. Candles need adequate airflow to cool evenly. Keep a distance of 2 to 3 inches between each candle to prevent uneven cooling, which can also contribute to cracking.
By following these tips, you can help reduce the likelihood of candle cracks when freezing or during the candle-making process. However, it is important to note that freezing candles may not be effective in extending burn time, and there are mixed opinions on this practice.
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Freezing candles to remove excess wax
There are several ways to remove excess wax from a candle jar, including melting the wax with hot water, a hairdryer, or an oven. However, freezing the candle is a popular method as it is safer and more convenient.
To freeze a candle to remove excess wax, place the candle jar in the freezer for at least three to five hours, preferably overnight for the best results. The colder the temperature, the better. When you freeze the wax, it doesn't just harden; it causes the wax to shrink and loosen. After freezing, you should be left with a large, frozen lump of wax at the bottom of the jar. Using a spoon or butter knife, slowly and gently poke at the edges of the wax to loosen the frozen lump from its container. If the wax remains stuck, place the candle back in the freezer for another hour or two.
The freezing method works well for soft wax, like the kind found in IKEA candles. However, it may not work as well for harder waxes. It is also important to note that freezing a candle in a glass container may cause it to shatter, especially if the glass is thin or if there are rapid temperature shifts. To avoid breakage, gradually cool the candle by placing it in the fridge or rinsing the jar with cold water before putting it in the freezer.
After removing the excess wax, you can clean any remaining waxy residue by dipping a paper towel in household cooking oil and wiping the inside of the candle jar. The oil will help dissolve the remaining wax, which can then be wiped up. Spend a few minutes thoroughly wiping the jar until it looks smooth, then use a clean paper towel to soak up the excess oil. Finally, rinse the jar with soap and water or baby oil to remove any remaining residue.
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The effect of freezing on candle scent
Freezing candles is a popular hack that has been passed down through the ages. It is said to extend the burn time of candles, thus making them last longer. While some people believe in this method, others are sceptical, believing it to be an old wives' tale.
The science behind freezing candles is based on the understanding that when wax is cold, it becomes harder and melts more slowly. Therefore, it is suggested that placing candles in the freezer before lighting them will make them burn slower, as the wax will remain colder for longer. This, in theory, should cause the candle to last longer, as it will take more time to reach the bottom of the candle.
However, freezing scented candles may negatively impact their fragrance. When a scented candle undergoes extremely fast temperature changes, the wax contracts, pushing out the oils used for scenting. As the candle returns to room temperature, small water droplets may form on the surface, which disappear when the candle is lit, along with the strong fragrance. While the candle will still have a scent, it will not be as potent as before freezing.
Additionally, freezing candles for too long may cause them to crack, split, or become brittle, which can affect how evenly the candle burns. This typically occurs due to moisture seeping into the wick from the freezing process. Therefore, it is recommended to only freeze candles for a short time before lighting them, rather than storing them in the freezer long-term.
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Alternatives to freezing candles
While some believe that freezing candles can extend their burn time, others consider it an old wives' tale. Freezing candles are thought to make them burn slower since the wax is colder. However, this is not the case. Freezing your candles will not make them burn longer, and it could cause them to crack.
Store your candles properly
Store your candles in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Sunlight can cause the colour and scent of the candles to fade over time.
Trim the wicks
Before lighting your candle, trim the wicks to about 5mm. This will help the candle burn more slowly and evenly, and it will also help prevent the wick from smoking.
Use a candle snuffer
Instead of blowing out your candles, use a candle snuffer to extinguish the flame. This will help prevent hot wax from splattering and will also keep the smoke from blowing onto your walls and ceiling.
Rotate your candles
If you have pillar candles, rotate them regularly to ensure they burn evenly. This will help prevent tunneling, which is when the candle burns down the middle and leaves a thick wall of wax around the edge.
Keep the wax pool clear
When you first burn your candle, make sure it burns long enough for the wax pool to reach the edge of the container. This will help prevent tunneling and will also make your candle last longer.
By following these simple tips, you can make your candles last longer without having to resort to freezing them.
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Frequently asked questions
There are mixed opinions about how long to freeze a candle for, but some sources suggest 6 to 8 hours is enough. One source froze their candle for over 24 hours.
Freezing a candle for too long can cause it to crack, split or lose its scent. This is due to the candle being subjected to fast temperature swings.
Some people believe that freezing a candle will make it burn slower, thus making it last longer.
Opinions are divided. Some sources claim that freezing a candle does make it last longer. However, others argue that by the time you get to burning the core of the candle, it will have lost the effect of the freezer, so it won't burn any longer than usual.
