Tyler Brooks
Candles can be enjoyed all year round, but the summer heat can cause them to melt and deform. To prevent this, it is important to store candles in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources such as radiators or air vents. If you want to burn candles in the summer, opt for candles with high melting points, such as soy wax or beeswax candles, and always burn them in a safe location, away from flammable materials.
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What You'll Learn
- Store candles in a cool, dark place, like a cupboard or basement
- Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources like radiators or vents
- Choose candles with high melting points, like soy or beeswax
- Use a candle lamp to avoid the flame and still enjoy the fragrance
- Take candles outdoors to repel insects and create a peaceful setting
Store candles in a cool, dark place, like a cupboard or basement
To prevent your candles from melting in the summer, it is important to store them in a cool, dark place, such as a cupboard or basement. These storage areas are ideal because they maintain a stable and moderate temperature. Additionally, they are shielded from direct sunlight, which can cause significant melting and deformation of candles.
Temperature and light exposure are crucial factors in candle degradation. By storing your candles in a cool, dark place, you can slow down the rate of melting and preserve the quality of your candles for longer. This is especially important during the summer months when ambient temperatures can exceed the melting point of candle wax, causing the wax to soften and lose its shape.
Cupboards and basements provide the ideal storage conditions for candles by offering a cool and shaded environment. These indoor areas are less susceptible to temperature fluctuations and direct sunlight, making them perfect for preserving candles during hot weather.
It is worth noting that if you notice condensation on your stored candles, it indicates frequent temperature changes. In such cases, simply wipe the candles with a paper towel and relocate them to a more consistently cool and dark location.
By taking these simple precautions, you can effectively prevent candle melting in the summer and continue to enjoy the soothing glow and fragrance of your favourite candles even during the hottest months of the year.
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Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources like radiators or vents
When storing candles in the summer, it is important to keep them out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources like radiators or vents. This is because candles have a low flash point of about 370°F, and their wax composition means they can melt at relatively low temperatures. For example, soy candles melt at around 104°F, while premium candles containing coconut oils might melt at 78°F. Therefore, it is recommended to store candles in a cool, dark place with a consistent temperature, such as a cupboard or shaded space.
If you wish to display your candles in the summer, choose a location that is reasonable for the weather conditions, avoiding anywhere that is hot or in direct sunlight. The mantelpiece, for instance, could be a suitable spot. Additionally, you can benefit from the scent of a candle without lighting it, as the smell of an unlit candle is called the "cold throw". This is a great way to enjoy your candles in hot weather without increasing the temperature of the room.
It is also important to consider the impact of airflow on your candles in the summer. While some people believe that candles benefit from being near drafts in hot weather, a strong airflow around a lit candle can pose a fire risk. Therefore, it is recommended to use a candle lamp or warmer in the summer months, which will allow you to enjoy the fragrance without the flame.
If you do choose to burn candles in the summer, take them outdoors to create a pleasant atmosphere and enhance the décor and ambiance of your outdoor space. Citronella candles, for example, can help repel insects while also providing a pleasant aroma. However, always follow basic safety rules when burning candles, such as never leaving them unattended and keeping them out of the reach of children and pets.
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Choose candles with high melting points, like soy or beeswax
When it comes to choosing candles that will withstand the summer heat, opting for those with high melting points is a wise strategy. Soy wax and beeswax candles are excellent choices in this regard, offering both sustainability and a higher melting point compared to paraffin wax.
Let's start with soy wax candles. While they do have a lower melting point than beeswax, they still perform well in warmer temperatures. Low-melt soy wax melts at around 130 degrees Fahrenheit (54 degrees Celsius), while high-melt soy wax can withstand temperatures up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit (66 degrees Celsius). This makes soy candles a good option for summer use, as they won't easily melt and release their fragrance at lower temperatures like paraffin wax candles. Additionally, soy wax candles have a longer burn time, making them a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice.
Beeswax, on the other hand, has an even higher melting point, typically around 145 degrees Fahrenheit (63 degrees Celsius). This natural wax, produced by honeybees, has been used for centuries in candle-making. Its high melting point makes it ideal for crafting free-standing pillar candles, and its tougher nature means it's less prone to warping or melting in the summer heat. Beeswax also has a pleasant, subtle scent and a natural honey-like colour, adding to its appeal. However, it's important to note that beeswax is not considered vegan, as it is produced by bees for their own use.
Both soy and beeswax candles offer advantages for summer use. Soy wax candles are more accessible to those following a vegan lifestyle, have longer burn times, and are more affordable. Beeswax candles, while more expensive, have an even higher melting point and a unique, natural scent. By choosing either of these options, you can enjoy your candles without worrying about them melting prematurely in the summer heat.
In addition to choosing the right type of candle, there are a few other tips to keep in mind for candle care in the summer. It's important to store your candles in a cool, dry place, ideally out of direct sunlight. You can also use candle lamps or wax warmers to enjoy the fragrance without the flame, which can help your candles last longer.
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Use a candle lamp to avoid the flame and still enjoy the fragrance
If you want to enjoy your favourite fragrances without the risks associated with an open flame, a candle lamp is a great option. Candle lamps are particularly useful in the summer months when burning a candle may not be ideal.
A candle warmer lamp offers all the perks of a traditional candle without the flame. These lamps use halogen light bulbs to warm a candle's wax, melting it and releasing its scent. Candle lamps are also a great way to make your candles last longer, as they do not completely burn off the top layers of wax, which often still contain fragrance.
There are two main types of candle warmers: top-down warmers and warmers that use a device similar to a hot plate. Top-down warmers involve removing the used wax and exposing the fresh layer of wax underneath to continue enjoying the scent. This process is repeated until you reach the bottom of the candle vessel. The other type of candle warmer, like the Better Homes & Gardens 2-in-1 Warmer, warms candles using a device similar to a hot plate, allowing the wax's scent to disperse.
When choosing a candle warmer lamp, look for features like adjustable dimmers and timers. These features give you more control over the brightness and melting speed of the lamp. Some candle lamps also have compact designs that fit multiple interior aesthetics and work with different candle sizes.
With a candle lamp, you can enjoy the fragrance of your favourite candles without worrying about the wax running low or the risks of an open flame.
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Take candles outdoors to repel insects and create a peaceful setting
Candles can be a great way to enhance the décor and ambiance of outdoor celebrations, such as summer weddings, or even just a peaceful evening in your backyard. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when using candles outdoors to repel insects and create a peaceful setting.
Firstly, consider the type of candle you are using. Citronella candles are a popular choice for insect repellents as they contain a naturally occurring oil that helps to mask scents that are attractive to insects. While citronella candles may not completely keep the bugs away, they can complement your primary mosquito repellent and offer a more pleasant aroma. Other essential oils known for their insect-repelling properties include rosemary, geranium, lavender, peppermint, and lemongrass. You can even make your own scented candles by adding a few drops of these essential oils to melted wax.
In addition to choosing the right type of candle, it is important to prioritize safety when using candles outdoors. Never leave a burning candle unattended, and keep it away from anything that may catch fire. If you are using candles around children or pets, ensure they are always out of reach. Additionally, be mindful of any strong airflows that could blow against the candle, creating a fire hazard.
To create a peaceful and romantic setting with candles outdoors, consider using a combination of different types of candles, such as taper, votive, and pillar candles. Mixing and matching shapes and sizes can add interest to your décor. For a longer-lasting display, opt for candles with longer burn times, such as votive candles. The soft glow of candlelight can transform any outdoor space into a tranquil and enchanting setting.
Lastly, when using candles outdoors during the summer, it is important to consider the heat. Store your candles in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight, to prevent them from melting or sweating. Soy candles, for example, melt at around 104 degrees Fahrenheit, while premium candles containing coconut oils may melt at just 78 degrees Fahrenheit. By taking this extra precaution, you can ensure your candles last through the summer season.
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Frequently asked questions
Store your candles in a cool, dark place like a cupboard or basement. If you still have the original box, place your candle back inside it and keep it in a cool part of the house. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight or near heat sources such as windows, doors, or vents.
Choose candles with waxes that have higher melting points, such as soy wax or beeswax. Opt for candles in sturdy glass or metal containers that can withstand higher temperatures. Keep them away from drafts as a strong breeze can blow your candle out and cause it to burn quickly and unevenly.
Yes, you can use candles outdoors in the summer. Citronella candles are a good option as they are a natural insect repellent. If you do use candles outdoors, opt for shaded areas such as covered patios or screened-in porches to minimize exposure to sunlight and heat.
