Do candles expire?

Yes. Candles can lose their original quality over time. This means that although there may not be a strict candle expiration date, their color and scent may change. But, of course, this depends on the wax type, fragrance stability, and storage conditions. 

How long do candles last?

Generally, a well-stored candle can have a longer candle shelf life. However, if it is exposed to heat, light, and air, this may affect its contents and reduce its lifespan. 

For instance, the most common wax type, paraffin wax, is highly stable and can last decades if stored properly. Soy wax, on the other hand, is natural but may dry faster and lose fragrance within 1 to 2 years. 

Other factors, such as fragrance oils, dyes, and wicks, may also impact a candle’s lifespan. The scents and appearance can fade or change depending on the wax type and exposure to light. As for the wicks, cotton can stay intact for years, while wood may dry out and become brittle. 

Do unused candles go bad? How to tell the signs?

Unused candles don’t technically “go bad,” but they can lose quality over time. While they may still burn, their fragrance, color, and overall performance may change. Here’s how to tell if a candle has gone bad:

• Changes in scent strength: You can know this if a candle once had a strong scent but now smells faint or different. 

• Wax color change: This is when you notice yellowing or fading in the candle’s wax outer color appearance.

• Wax texture changes: For most natural wax candles, you may notice frosting or bumps developing on the wax surface. Some wax types may soften or become brittle. 

• Wick performance issues: Wooden wicks may dry out and become difficult to light. Other candles, like those with paraffin wax, may develop excessive carbon buildup on the wick. This can lead to a larger flame or soot production. 

• Uneven burning or cracking: Since wax expands and contracts with temperature changes, it may form cracks. This may even affect burn or cause candle tunneling.

Can expired candles still be used?

Yes. An expired candle can still be used but may not burn as perfectly as a new one. You should consider the wick condition, burning quality, and changes in scent. 

If the wick is brittle, the candle won’t burn properly and may be challenging to light. Also, an old candle may release a faint or altered scent, which may be less pleasant. 

If you can’t use the expired candle for its usual purpose, you can repurpose it creatively. For example, you can melt the wax and pour it into molds for continued fragrance or to make DIY fire starters. The old candle can also be used to lubricate sticky surfaces, such as zippers and shoelaces.   

Best candle to last: shop at Stān dle

Are you looking for a candle that lasts longer while filling your space with rich, captivating aromas? You should check out Stān dle aromatic candles. We offer handcrafted, small-batch candles designed for elegance, a clean burn, and longevity. All our candles use natural wax and wicks and feature thoughtfully curated fragrances.  

Key features 

• Long-lasting burning time: Stān dle candles have a 40 to 60-hour average burn time, which may vary depending on the candle size and how well you care for it. 

• High-quality wax: We use 100% natural soy wax to craft Stān dle candles, which is eco-friendly and contributes to a longer, more even burn. 

• Natural cotton wicks: All Stān dle candles feature cotton wicks, which ensure a consistent flame and are sustainable for your home. 

• Signature fragrances: Stān dle aromatic candles are infused with phthalate-free fragrances. They are non-toxic, and you can use them safely every day. 

• Environmental and physically safe: Besides natural materials, our candles have concrete containers that you can reuse for decor, as a vase, storage, and plant pot. 

Examples of Stān dle Aromatic candles

At Stān dle, we offer a variety of aromatic candles to suit every taste and mood. Here are some of the candles and fragrances:

1. Sandalure 18: This is one of the most popular scented candles by Stān dle. It offers users a  rich blend of premium fragrances. These scents are cinnamon, geranium, clove, sandalwood, nutmeg, pepper, patchouli, and vanilla. 

2. Lavendure 21: This aromatic candle by Stān dle is one of the best to fill your room with aroma and serenity. It is made of a soothing mix of lavender, eucalyptus, black currant, lemon, fir needle, mandarin, amber, and oakmoss.

How to store candles for a longer lifespan?

To maintain a candle’s original quality for as long as possible, proper storage is essential. Here’s how to keep your candles in the best condition:

• Ideal storage conditions: Store candles in a cool, dry place to prevent warping and sweating. Keep them away from direct sunlight to avoid discoloration and fragrance breakdown. For delicate waxes like soy, use airtight containers to maintain their structure.

• Learn to keep scent intact: Keep lids on to preserve fragrance, or wrap candles in plastic or foil if they don’t have covers. Avoid storing them near strong odors, as wax absorbs surrounding scents, altering the original aroma.

• Pprevent wax and wick degradation: Store your candles in the upright position to prevent warping and ensure even burning. Trim the wick to ¼ inch before storage to keep it from becoming brittle. Avoid extreme temperature changes, as rapid shifts can cause the wax to crack or separate from the container.

FAQs

How long can a candle last if it stays unused?

An unused candle can last several years to decades, depending on the wax type and storage conditions. Paraffin and beeswax candles have the longest shelf life, while soy and palm wax lose quality faster. Proper storage for candles in a cool, dark, dry place helps maintain its quality. If you want the best quality candles with a longer-lasting burn, trust Stān dle. 

How can you tell if a candle has gone bad?

A candle may expire if the scent has significantly faded, the wax appears discolored, cracked, or sticky, or the wick becomes brittle. If the candle burns unevenly, emits excess soot, or produces a weak flame, its quality has likely deteriorated. If you need candles with a longer shelf-life and a longer burn time, Stān dle is your bet. The candles are handcrafted with natural and premium wax and wick materials. 

What is the average lifespan of a candle?

Burn time varies by wax type and size. Paraffin candles last 25-45 hours per 8 oz, soy wax around 35-55 hours, and beeswax up to 60+ hours. When stored properly, candles can maintain their burn quality for several years. If not used, a candle’s original quality may remain intact for many years. With Stān dle aromatic candles, you can enjoy the fragrances and an extended burn time of up to 60 hours. 

Do candles lose their scent or color over time?

Yes, fragrance oils break down over time, especially in natural waxes like soy, leading to a weaker scent. Sunlight and heat can also cause colored candles to fade, while improper storage can alter the candle’s original fragrance. It is recommended that you use your candles within 2 to 3 years to enjoy fresh fragrance and original appearance. At Stān dle candles, we have different scents for every mood, and our candle colors are eye-catching. 

Do scented candles have an expiration date?

Scented candles don’t have a strict expiration date, but their fragrance can fade within 1-2 years for soy wax and 4+ years for paraffin. Keeping candles in airtight containers helps extend their aromatic life. With Stān dle scented candles, you get signature fragrances, and the candles are housed in a concrete container for a prolonged lifespan. 

What happens if you use an expired candle?

Nothing bad. An expired candle may still burn, but it might produce weak fragrance, uneven flames, or excess soot. Wax that has degraded can result in tunneling, and brittle wicks may cause difficulty lighting or poor performance. If you want long-lasting scented candles, you should choose Stān dle. The candles are high-quality and offer extended burn time. 

Should I throw away old candles?

Not necessarily! Old candles can be repurposed. Some of the best creative ways are to melt the wax for wax melts, DIY fire starters, or new candles. If the wick no longer works or the wax smells off, it is best to discard them in an environmentally friendly way. With Stān dle candles, you can still use the wax for extended fragrance release. The concrete container can also be repurposed for vases, decor, storage, etc.