Ben Carter
Candles are beloved by many for their soothing glow and fragrance, but during the summer, their wax can melt, causing them to lose their shape and become a fire hazard. This is because most candles are made from wax, which has a relatively low melting point. The good news is that with the right precautions, you can keep your candles intact and glowing even on the hottest summer days. This involves understanding the composition of your candle, storing it in a cool location, and avoiding direct sunlight and drafts.
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What You'll Learn
Choose candles with high melting points, like soy or beeswax
When choosing candles to burn in the summer, opt for those with high melting points, such as soy or beeswax candles. These types of candles are less likely to melt or deform in warm weather, making them ideal for use during the hotter months.
Soy wax candles, for example, typically melt at around 104 degrees Fahrenheit, which is higher than the melting point of some other types of wax. Beeswax candles have an even higher melting point, and because they are composed of complex esters produced by bees, they start at a relatively high melting temperature without requiring additional processing. This makes them a great choice for summer.
If you're looking for a candle that will retain its shape and fragrance in the summer heat, soy and beeswax candles are excellent options. These waxes are also natural and eco-friendly, with no added chemicals. Soy wax, in particular, is known for its ability to retain fragrance, making it a popular choice for scented candles.
In addition to choosing candles with high melting points, there are a few other things to keep in mind when burning candles in the summer. Firstly, avoid placing them in direct sunlight or near drafts. Instead, store them in a cool, dry place, such as a cupboard or pantry. If you're looking to enjoy the fragrance of your candles without burning them, consider using a candle warmer or wax melt, which will release the scent without the flame.
By choosing candles with high melting points and taking some simple precautions, you can safely enjoy your candles all summer long.
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Store in a cool, dark place, like a cupboard or basement
When storing candles in the summer, it's important to choose the right location. The ideal place is cool, dark, and shielded from direct sunlight, such as a cupboard or basement. These areas provide stable and moderate temperatures, which is crucial for preserving candles during hot weather.
Cupboards are excellent storage spaces as they generally meet these requirements. Basements, too, offer a cool and shaded environment, making them a good option for candle storage. If you opt for basement storage, ensure the space is dry and well-ventilated to prevent moisture buildup, which could affect your candles.
Additionally, consider placing your candles inside their original boxes or under a glass cloche. This adds an extra layer of protection from direct light exposure, helping to maintain the quality of your candles.
By storing your candles in cool, dark places like cupboards or basements, you can effectively prevent melting and deformation caused by high temperatures and direct sunlight. Remember, stable temperatures are key to preserving your candles, so avoid locations with frequent temperature fluctuations.
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Avoid drafts, windows, and vents
Candles are made from wax, which has a relatively low melting point. During hot weather, direct sunlight and exposure to heat sources such as radiators, air vents, drafts, windows, and doors can cause candles to melt and deform.
To prevent this, it is important to choose the right location for your candles. Avoid placing them near windows or vents, as these areas tend to have higher temperatures and can contribute to candle melting. Instead, opt for cool, shaded areas of your home where temperatures are relatively stable and moderate. Indoor areas such as bathrooms, basements, or interior rooms away from direct sunlight are ideal for preserving candles during hot weather.
If you must keep windows open, ensure that the candle is not placed directly by the window, as this may cause issues with burning unevenly. Additionally, strong airflow from open windows can lead to a fire risk, so it is important to be mindful of the candle's proximity to any drafts.
To further protect your candles from melting, consider opting for candles housed in containers or jars. These containers act as a barrier, insulating the wax and slowing down the rate of melting. Additionally, choose candles made from heat-resistant waxes such as soy wax or beeswax, which have higher melting points and can withstand warmer temperatures without deforming.
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Use a candle lamp or warmer to avoid a flame
Candle lovers often face the problem of their favourite candles melting away in the summer heat. While there are several ways to prevent this, one effective way is to use a candle lamp or warmer to avoid a flame.
Candle Warmer
A candle warmer is an electric device that heats a candle or scented wax to release its fragrance without using an open flame. It typically uses a hot plate or an overhead lamp as the heat source and includes a stand or tray for the candle jar or wax. Candle warmers are a safer alternative to burning candles as they do not produce soot or toxic fumes, and they reduce the risk of fire. They also help preserve candles by melting the wax evenly from top to bottom, making the fragrance last longer.
Types of Candle Warmers
There are two main types of candle warmers: plate warmers and lamp warmers. Plate warmers use an electric resistive element beneath a metal or ceramic plate to heat the candle from below. Lamp warmers, on the other hand, use a halogen or incandescent bulb to melt the top layer of wax while providing ambient light. 2-in-1 models can accommodate either a candle jar on the plate or wax melts in a detachable dish.
Benefits of Using a Candle Warmer
In addition to reducing fire hazards and indoor air pollution, candle warmers offer several other benefits. They help extend the life of your candles, as jar candles can emit fragrance for up to five times longer when warmed. Candle warmers are also a more cost-effective option in the long run, as you only need to purchase the warmer once and then refill it with inexpensive wax melts. They also serve as decorative lighting, adding to the ambiance of your home.
Choosing the Right Candle Warmer
When choosing a candle warmer, opt for UL/ETL-certified or CE-certified devices that use heat-resistant ceramics or metals. Modern units often come with additional safety features such as auto shut-off timers, dimmers, and thermostats. Avoid overheating vegetable-wax candles, as they can crack their jars due to pressure.
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Take candles outdoors to repel insects
Candles can be a great way to enhance the décor and ambiance of outdoor celebrations, such as summer weddings, and can also be used to repel insects. Here are some tips to take candles outdoors to repel insects:
Citronella candles are a popular choice for repelling insects, especially mosquitoes. Citronella is a naturally occurring oil that masks scents attractive to insects. However, it's important to note that citronella candles may not be the most effective mosquito repellent, according to some studies. They can still complement your primary mosquito repellent and provide a pleasant aroma. If you're not a fan of the citronella scent, you can opt for candles with other insect-repelling essential oils like rosemary, geranium, lavender, peppermint, lemongrass, or cedar. These candles can be store-bought or even made at home by adding essential oils to melted wax and pouring it into moulds.
When using candles outdoors, safety should always be a top priority. Never leave a burning candle unattended, and ensure it's not placed on or near anything flammable. Keep candles out of the reach of children and pets, especially at gatherings. Additionally, be mindful of any strong airflow around the candles, as it could increase the risk of fire. If you notice the candle flickering due to a draft, blow it out, let the wax cool, and relocate it to a safer spot.
To make your candles last longer in the summer heat, store them in a cool place, ideally out of direct sunlight, to prevent sweating and melting. Soy candles, for example, melt at around 104 degrees Fahrenheit, while premium candles with coconut oil may melt at 78 degrees Fahrenheit. If you're looking for a summer scent, consider a minty, green candle, but be sure to keep it away from direct sunlight to prevent cracking and uneven cooling.
Lastly, consider combining candles with other insect repellent methods for greater effectiveness. For instance, you could use a wearable device containing insecticides or sprays with ingredients like DEET or oil of lemon eucalyptus, which have been found to reduce mosquito attraction significantly. By taking these precautions and using candles with the right essential oils, you can enjoy your outdoor spaces pest-free and in style!
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Frequently asked questions
Store your candle somewhere cool, out of direct sunlight, and away from heat sources such as windows, doors, or vents. Bathrooms, basements, or interior rooms are ideal for preserving candles during hot weather.
Opt for candles made from waxes with higher melting points, such as soy wax or beeswax. Candles housed in sturdy glass or metal containers also offer added protection against melting.
Ensure proper wick maintenance by trimming the wick to a quarter of an inch before each use to prevent excessive flame size and heat output.
Use expedited shipping and insulated packaging to keep the candles cool during transit. Avoid using thin or flimsy boxes as they may crush during handling. Instead, use sturdy boxes and insulate the candle jar with bubble wrap to provide cushioning.
