Store candles somewhere cool, dark and dry, and leave them lying flat, so they don't bend. Keep them away from sun, heat and radiators – heat softens the wax, and sunlight fades the colour. Stored properly, candles last for many years.
Candles are one of the most atmospheric elements in the home – but they're also more delicate than many people think. Incorrect storage can cause candles to bend, lose colour or become sticky. Here are the simple rules that keep your candles looking great and ready to use, whether you're storing them for winter or just have a stash in a drawer.
Cool, dark and dry
The most important rule is to store candles somewhere that is somewhere cool, dark and dry. Wax is a natural material that reacts to temperature and light, and a stable environment best preserves its shape, colour and scent.
- Cool: A temperature around normal room temperature or slightly cooler is ideal. Avoid places that get very warm.
- Dark: Direct light – especially sunlight – fades the colour over time. A closed drawer, box or cupboard is perfect.
- Dry: Moisture can affect the wick and the surface. Avoid damp basements and rooms with high humidity.
Tip: Feel free to keep the candles in their original packaging or in a closed box. This protects them from dust, light and small temperature fluctuations, all at once.
Leave the candles lying flat
Especially long, thin candles like taper candles and dinner candles can easily bend if they're stood at an angle or exposed to heat. So lay them flat down, so the weight is spread evenly and the candle doesn't warp.
- Lay the candles next to each other without pressing them together.
- Avoid stacking heavy items on top, as these can leave marks in the soft wax.
- If the candles are standing up in a holder for a long period, check regularly that they're not starting to lean.
Keep them away from heat and sun
Heat and sun are candles' worst enemies. Wax has a relatively low melting point, so even moderate heat can soften candles so they lose their shape or become sticky. Sunlight also fades the colours, so a coloured candle can lose its vibrancy.
- Don't place candles on windowsills in direct sun.
- Keep them away from radiators, wood burners and other heat sources.
- Never leave candles in a car – the temperature in a parked car can get very high and melt them in a short time.
| Condition | Recommendation | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | Cool, stable | Heat softens and deforms the wax |
| Light | Dark | Sun fades and bleaches the colour |
| Humidity | Dry | Moisture can affect the wick and surface |
| Positioning | Flat, without pressure | Prevents bending and imprints |
Dust and upkeep
Candles left out on display collect dust, which can make the surface matte and grey. Wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth or a nylon stocking, which will polish the surface back to a shine. Don't use water or cleaning products directly on the wax.
Tip: If a candle has gone a bit soft from heat, you can pop it in the fridge for a short while before using it. A chilled candle often burns more calmly and evenly.
Shelf life and preparation
Stored correctly, candles last for many years without losing quality. Scented candles, however, may lose a bit of their fragrance intensity over time. Before lighting a candle that's been stored away, check that it's straight, that the wick is intact, and trim the wick if needed so it burns evenly.
Frequently asked questions
Can candles get too old?
Candles don't really have an expiry date and can last for many years if stored somewhere cool, dark and dry. Scented candles, however, may lose some of their fragrance over time.
Why are my candles bending?
Candles typically bend because they've been kept somewhere too warm or have been lying askew. Wax softens with heat, so store long candles flat and away from heat sources.
Why is the colour fading on my candles?
Direct sunlight bleaches coloured wax over time. Store coloured candles somewhere dark so they keep their original colour.
Can I store candles in the basement?
Yes, if the basement is cool and dry. Avoid damp basements, as moisture can affect the wick and surface.
How do I make dusty candles look nice again?
Wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth or a nylon stocking, which polishes the surface to a shine. Avoid water and cleaning products.
Summary
Candles last best when stored somewhere cool, dark and dry, and lying flat without pressure on them. Keep them away from sun, radiators and warm cars, wipe off dust with a soft cloth, and check your candles before use. With these simple habits, your candles will keep their shape, colour and cosiness for many years.
Read also
- Candle guide: types, sizes and burn time
- When do you put a candle in the window?
- How do you remove wax from a tablecloth, candlestick or table?
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