Chloe Adams
Candles are a popular home décor item that can fill a room with a cosy and inviting aroma. However, they require proper storage to maintain their scent and appearance. This involves storing them in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from sources of heat and direct sunlight. In this article, we will explore the optimal temperature for storing candles and provide tips to ensure they remain in good condition.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Temperature | Room temperature or below (below 80 °F or 27 °C) |
| Fluctuation in temperature | Avoid |
| Heat | Avoid heat sources like radiators, space heaters, kitchen appliances, and stoves |
| Sunlight | Avoid direct sunlight, desk lamps, and spotlights |
| Moisture | Keep dry; avoid areas with water, moisture, humidity, and condensation |
| Storage location | Cupboard, closet, basement, or guest room |
| Storage container | Plastic or acrylic bin, glass, metal, or some ceramic containers with tight lids |
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What You'll Learn
- Store below 80 °F (27 °C) to prevent wax softening and scent degradation
- Avoid direct sunlight to prevent discolouration and scent fading
- Keep away from heat sources like radiators and appliances
- Store in a dry place to avoid wick damage and candle sweating
- Cover candles to preserve scent and keep dust out
Store below 80 °F (27 °C) to prevent wax softening and scent degradation
When storing candles, it is important to keep them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. This is because fragrance oils and waxes are highly sensitive to heat. If stored in a warm place, candles can lose their scent and their wax can soften or melt. Therefore, it is recommended to store candles below 80 °F (27 °C).
Storing candles below 80 °F (27 °C) will help to maintain their shape and structure. At higher temperatures, candles can soften and bend, especially taper candles, which are the most sensitive. Warping can also occur, causing the candle to lose its original form. By keeping candles cool, you can prevent these issues and ensure they remain intact.
Additionally, storing candles at the recommended temperature will help preserve their scent. Even when not burning, candle wax constantly releases scent molecules, a phenomenon known as "cold throw" or "scent degradation". At temperatures above 80 °F (27 °C), this process is accelerated, causing the fragrance to fade or disappear. By storing candles in a cool environment, you can slow down scent degradation and enjoy your favourite aromas for longer.
To achieve the ideal storage temperature, avoid placing candles near heat sources such as radiators, stoves, or appliances. Basements are often suitable, provided they are dry and well-ventilated. Cupboards or closets are also good options, offering protection from sunlight and temperature fluctuations. Keeping candles in their original containers, such as glass jars, provides an extra layer of protection from heat and light.
Finally, it is worth noting that while cool temperatures are preferable, freezing candles is not recommended. Extreme cold can damage the wick and cause the wax to crack or split. Therefore, room temperature or slightly cooler conditions are ideal for maintaining the quality and integrity of your candles.
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Avoid direct sunlight to prevent discolouration and scent fading
Candles are a great way to create a cosy and inviting aroma in your home. However, they require proper storage to ensure longevity and maintain their fragrance. One of the key things to avoid when storing candles is direct sunlight, as it can cause several issues, including discolouration and scent fading.
Direct sunlight can cause oxidation and degradation of the fragrance oils in the wax, leading to a faster loss of scent. This process is often called "cold throw" or "scent degradation" and refers to the fragrance released by the candle when it is not burning. Therefore, it is recommended to store candles in a dark location, such as a cupboard or closet, to preserve their fragrance and prevent discolouration.
Additionally, sunlight can cause warping or partial melting of the candle wax, especially if the temperature is too high. This can result in a misshapen candle that may not burn properly. To avoid this, choose a storage location that does not receive direct sunlight and maintains a cool, even temperature. Room temperature or below is ideal, with an optimal temperature of below 27 degrees Celsius recommended to prevent overheating and scent degradation.
Another way to protect your candles from direct sunlight is to use storage containers with tight lids. Glass, metal, and some ceramic containers are effective at maintaining freshness and preventing scent escape. For open glass jars, placing them in a plastic bag can help maintain their scent and avoid oil leakage, which can damage furniture.
By following these guidelines and avoiding direct sunlight, you can ensure that your candles remain in good condition and maintain their scent and colour for a longer period.
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Keep away from heat sources like radiators and appliances
When storing candles, it is important to keep them away from heat sources such as radiators and appliances. This is because fragrance oils and waxes are highly sensitive to heat. While a little sweating is normal, excess heat can cause the candle wax to soften and the fragrance to degrade more quickly. Candles stored in warm areas may also leak oil, damaging nearby furniture.
To prevent these issues, it is recommended to keep candles away from radiators, space heaters, stoves, and other sources of direct heat. Appliances such as refrigerators, ovens, and dishwashers can also emit heat, so it is best to avoid storing candles near these appliances. Instead, opt for a cool, dry location such as a cupboard or closet.
If you live in a climate with extreme temperatures, consider using a temperature-controlled storage unit to keep your candles in optimal condition. Additionally, avoid placing candles near windows, as sunlight can cause the colours and scents to fade faster, and the heat can cause the candles to melt or warp.
By keeping candles away from heat sources and appliances, you can help ensure that they remain in good condition and maintain their fragrance and visual appeal. This is especially important if you plan to display your candles as part of your home décor or if you intend to burn them frequently.
Overall, storing candles away from heat sources and appliances is crucial for preserving their quality and longevity. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy your candles for longer and get the most out of your investment.
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Store in a dry place to avoid wick damage and candle sweating
It is important to store candles in a dry place to prevent wick damage and candle sweating. While there is no definitive answer to the ideal temperature for candle storage, ensuring that they are kept in a cool, dry location is crucial.
Candles should be stored in a dry environment to prevent wick damage. The wick is a vital component of a candle, and it needs to remain dry and intact for the candle to burn effectively. When exposed to excessive moisture, wicks can become damp, leading to difficulties in lighting the candle and maintaining a steady flame. This can result in a poor burning experience, with the candle producing smoke or soot, or even failing to stay lit.
Additionally, storing candles in a dry place helps prevent candle sweating. Candle sweating occurs when the wax on the surface of the candle softens and forms condensation. This can happen when candles are exposed to temperature fluctuations or high humidity levels. By keeping the candles in a consistently dry environment, you can minimise the chances of sweating and maintain the candle's smooth and polished appearance.
To ensure a dry storage area, consider using a sealed container or a dedicated candle storage box. These containers help regulate the moisture levels surrounding the candles, keeping them dry. Additionally, choose a storage location that is away from direct sources of heat, such as ovens or radiators, as these can contribute to higher humidity levels.
Finally, it is worth noting that temperature and humidity are interconnected factors. By maintaining a stable and cool temperature, you can also help control the humidity levels. An ideal storage temperature falls within the range of 50°F to 85°F (10°C to 30°C). This range helps prevent excessive softening of the wax, reducing the likelihood of sweating and ensuring the integrity of the candle's shape and texture.
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Cover candles to preserve scent and keep dust out
When storing candles, it is important to keep them away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight. This is because fragrance oils and waxes are highly sensitive to heat, and direct sunlight can cause oxidation and degradation of fragrance oils, causing the scent to fade faster. Therefore, it is recommended to store candles in a cool, dry, and dark location.
To preserve the scent and keep dust out, it is advisable to cover the candles when they are not in use. Using candles with lids is a great option, as the lid helps to prevent the fragrance from escaping. For candles without lids, consider using a dust cover or investing in a bell cloche to display the candles while also keeping them protected.
Additionally, it is important to avoid placing candles near heating or cooling vents, radiators, stoves, or windows, as these areas can experience temperature swings that may impact the quality of the candles. Instead, opt for storage areas such as cupboards or closets, which provide a more consistent and controlled environment.
While candles can be stored at room temperature, it is recommended to keep them below 80 °F (27 °C) to prevent the wax from softening and affecting the fragrance. Keeping candles in a refrigerator is an option, but freezing them is not advisable as it can damage the wick and cause the wax to crack or split.
Overall, by storing candles in a cool, dry, and dark location, and covering them when not in use, you can effectively preserve their scent and ensure they remain dust-free.
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Frequently asked questions
The ideal temperature to store candles is below room temperature, ideally below 27°C or 80°F.
Candles should be stored at a cool temperature to prevent the wax from softening or melting. It also helps to preserve the scent of the candle, as fragrance oils are highly sensitive to heat.
Candles should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. A cupboard or closet is ideal, as long as it doesn't get too hot. Avoid storing candles near heat sources such as radiators, stoves, or windows.
