Brooke Martin
Candles are a great way to create a cosy atmosphere, but they can be dangerous if not stored properly. The key to preserving the fragrance and appearance of your candles lies in keeping them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and other heat sources. It is also important to store them away from children and pets and to keep them out of reach of anything that can catch fire easily. Depending on the type of candle, the storage method may vary, but there are several universal tips that can help you safely store your candles and maintain their quality.
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What You'll Learn
Keep candles away from heat sources and direct sunlight
When storing candles, it is imperative to keep them away from heat sources and direct sunlight. This is because candles, particularly their fragrance oils and waxes, are sensitive to heat. Excess heat may cause the candle wax to soften, leading to a loss of fragrance and potential deformation. Therefore, it is recommended to store candles in a cool, dark location, away from direct heat sources such as radiators, space heaters, and kitchen appliances.
The ideal storage temperature for candles is between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, with colder temperatures being preferable. This is because higher temperatures can accelerate the degradation of the candle's dyes and fragrance oils, causing the scent and colour to fade prematurely. Additionally, temperature fluctuations can cause the candle wax to expand and contract, potentially leading to cracking or softening. Therefore, areas with stable temperatures, such as basements or linen closets, are ideal for candle storage.
It is worth noting that certain types of candle jars, such as ceramic jars, may absorb oils through micro-cracks if stored in warm areas, leading to oil leakage. In such cases, it is advisable to store these candles in plastic bags to contain the fragrance and prevent damage to surrounding items. Glass containers with lids can be stored on shelves, but stacking them should be avoided as they can easily topple and break.
To summarise, keeping candles away from heat sources and direct sunlight is crucial to maintaining their scent, colour, and structural integrity. By storing them in cool, dark locations, you can prolong the life of your candles and ensure they perform optimally when lit.
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Store candles in a cool, dry, and dark place
To safely store candles, it is important to keep them in a cool, dry, and dark place. The ideal temperature range for storing candles is between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, with the colder side being better. This is because fragrance oils and waxes are sensitive to heat. If the temperature is too high, the candle wax may soften, and the fragrance may not last as long. Therefore, it is best to avoid storing candles near sources of direct heat, such as radiators, space heaters, or kitchen appliances. Additionally, bathrooms and kitchens typically have higher humidity levels, so it is recommended to avoid storing candles in these rooms.
One option for storing candles is to use a linen closet or hallway cabinet, as these areas are naturally cooler and easily accessible. Another option is to store them on a shelf in a guest room or under the stairs in a closet. These locations keep the candles out of the way while still being within reach when needed. It is also important to avoid placing candles in areas prone to leakage, such as under a bathroom or kitchen sink.
Some additional tips for storing candles include using a coaster under all candles, especially if they are being stored on a shelf, to protect the surface from any potential wax melting or oil leaks. If you are concerned about oil leaks, you can follow Arslanian's advice and store ceramic or cement candle jars in a plastic bag to contain the fragrance and avoid potential damage to furniture. For open glass jars, placing them in a plastic bag will help maintain their scent.
It is also recommended to avoid stacking glass containers with lids, as they can easily fall over and break. Instead, store them on a shelf or in a cabinet. If you are using a box or bin to store your candles, opt for plastic or acrylic ones, as they are easier to clean in case of any wax melting or spills. Additionally, avoid wrapping pillar candles, as they may stick to the wrapper and deform.
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Avoid temperature and humidity fluctuations
When storing candles, it is important to avoid temperature and humidity fluctuations to preserve their scent and quality.
Firstly, find a storage location with a cool, consistent, and dark environment. The ideal temperature range for storing candles is between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, with lower temperatures being preferable. Basements, guest room shelves, linen closets, and under-the-stairs closets are excellent options as they tend to be cool and dark. Avoid storing candles in areas with direct sunlight, such as windowsills, as this can cause oxidation and degradation of dyes and fragrances, resulting in a faster loss of scent and colour.
Secondly, avoid placing candles near heat sources like radiators, space heaters, or kitchen appliances. These can cause the candle wax to soften and the fragrance to deteriorate. Additionally, be mindful of the type of candle jar you're using. Ceramic jars, for example, may absorb oils through micro-cracks and leak, damaging the surrounding furniture. In such cases, Raffi Arslanian, owner of Thompson Ferrier, a New York-based luxury candle company, recommends storing them in a plastic bag to contain the fragrance and prevent damage.
Thirdly, consider the natural climate of your storage location. If you live in an area with warm temperatures year-round, your garage may not be ideal for storing candles, as the heat can cause the fragrances to mix and create an unpleasant scent. Similarly, bathrooms and kitchens typically have higher humidity levels, so it's best to avoid storing candles in these rooms to prevent moisture buildup.
Lastly, if you're concerned about maintaining the scent of your candles, consider using airtight containers or bags. This will help to prevent the fragrance from escaping and keep your candles fresh for longer.
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Protect candles from dust and leaks
To protect candles from dust and leaks, it is important to store them in a cool, dry, and dark location. The ideal temperature for storing candles is between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, with the colder side being better. Avoid placing candles in areas that receive direct sunlight or near heat sources such as radiators, space heaters, or kitchen appliances. Keep them away from windows, as sunlight can cause oxidation and degradation of dyes and fragrance oils, resulting in a faster loss of scent and colour.
Consider storing your candles in a basement storage room, a linen closet, or an under-the-stairs closet. These areas generally maintain a cooler temperature and are easily accessible. If you are concerned about oil leaks, wrap ceramic or cement candle jars in a plastic bag to capture any potential leaks and prevent damage to surrounding items. Glass containers with lids can be placed on shelves, but avoid stacking them to prevent breakage.
For open glass jars, utilise plastic bags to maintain their scent. If you wish to display your candles, opt for elegant bell cloches to showcase your candles while preserving their fragrance. Additionally, using a coaster under stored candles is recommended to protect the underlying surface from potential leaks or damage.
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Keep candles away from children and pets
When storing candles, safety should always come first. It is imperative to keep candles out of the reach of children and pets. This is a crucial step to ensure the safety of your loved ones and your furry friends. Here are some detailed guidelines to achieve this:
Firstly, choose an appropriate storage location that is both secure and inaccessible to children and pets. Opt for high shelves or closed cabinets that cannot be easily accessed. If using shelves, ensure they are sturdy and stable to prevent accidental falls. Additionally, consider using child-proof locks or latches on cabinet doors for added security.
Secondly, store candles in their original packaging or in sealed containers. This helps to retain their scent and also provides an extra layer of protection. Keep the candles in their boxes or wrap them individually in plastic bags before placing them in storage. This way, even if a child or pet manages to access the storage area, they will have an extra barrier to breach.
Thirdly, maintain a consistent temperature in the storage area. Avoid placing candles near heat sources such as radiators, ovens, or fireplaces. Candles are sensitive to temperature fluctuations, and excess heat can cause the wax to soften or melt, creating a potential safety hazard if children or pets are able to access them.
Lastly, be mindful of potential choking hazards when storing candles. Keep wicks trimmed and ensure that there are no small parts or decorations on the candles that could become detached and pose a choking risk to children or pets. Regularly inspect your candles for any signs of damage or deterioration, and dispose of any candles that are no longer safe.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively keep candles out of the reach of children and pets, ensuring a safer environment for your family and furry companions while also maintaining the quality and longevity of your candles.
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Frequently asked questions
Taper candles should be stored flat to prevent them from warping. They can easily get scratched or dinged, so it is recommended to wrap them in tissue paper and keep them in a box or basket.
Scented candles should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and other heat sources. They should also be stored separately from unscented candles to prevent fragrances from mixing.
Candles should be stored in an enclosed, dark, cool place, away from flammable items. A basement storage room, a shelf in a guest room, a linen closet, or an under-the-stairs closet are all good options.
If pillar candles are in glass jars, they can be stored upright. Otherwise, they should be stored flat, like taper candles, to prevent damage.
