25/09/2024 BURNING QUESTION NR 6: DO CANDLES HAVE AN EXPIRY DATE?

You might have wondered when you found your old candle from the drawer that has never been used. "Oh, can I still lit it? Is it still releasing any scent? How would the wax and wick perform?" and so on.. with this post I will explain everything more in detail.

Simple and quick answer is YES and NO! Candle itself doesn't have a strict expiry date - it can't "go bad" as it happens with food - so no mold or rot. HOWEVER. Candles do lose their longevity of performing well over time and the process will be sped up if they are not being stored properly. Plus there are some things you do need consider and be aware of what changes can occur with unused candles over few years. You need to know:

What type of wax has been used. The thing is that what type of wax has been used in candlemaking can play a significant role in how long it will last. Paraffin and beeswax are quite long lasting, beeswax can even last decades before losing it's good qualities. If the temperatures are fluctuating, especially when it is getting cold, beeswax might get some white residue on the surface. This is nothing to worry about as it is part of the oxidation process. Just rub it off! Now when it comes to paraffin, it can shrink and crack over time. Soy, coconut, rapeseed and any other vegetable-based waxes, that are more environmentally friendly and biodegradable do tend to degrade faster than paraffin and beeswax. Vegetable-based waxes (they are natural and have low melt temperature) might discolor into yellowish or get slight rancid scent especially when not being made into candles. It is best to lit and use the candles fully within 2 years of purchase.

Unscented candles. On average, unscented candles should be fine up to 5-10 years, depending on a wax. Beeswax actually should never go off.

About the scents (scented with essential or fragrance oils). It is true that the scent of a candle can weaken or change over time. This means that they break down due to oxidation and get exposed to the light. After a few years, candles may lose their initial fragrance and can smell differently than they originally did. So scented candles should be fine up to 1-2 years.

What wick is being used. What the wick is made of can also determine a candle’s usability over time. A low-quality wick might become brittle or difficult to light if left unused for extended periods.

How candles are being stored. This is the key to prolong your candle's shelf life! If your candle is being exposed to direct sunlight, extreme temperatures, and humidity - all of this can accelerate the aging process of candles. Keeping them in a cool, dark, and dry environment is VERY CRUCIAL to preserve both the wax and the fragrance.

If you're unsure whether your old candle is still good to use, here are some signs to look for:

• Fading scent: a diminished or unpleasant fragrance can indicate that the candle's oils have degraded.
• Cracked or shrinking wax: if the wax looks cracked or shrunken, especially in paraffin or soy candles, this is a sign of aging.
• Discoloration: exposure to sunlight can cause wax to discolor, which doesn’t impact performance but can affect aesthetics.
• Difficulty lighting: if the wick is hard to light or keeps going out, it could be dried out from improper storage.

To maximize the lifespan, it is important to:

• Store in a cool, dark place: avoid exposing your candles to direct sunlight or any other heat sources. A cool, dark area like a drawer or cabinet is ideal.
• Keep in an airtight container: storing candles in an airtight container can protect the fragrance oils from oxidizing and the wax from drying out. So buy scented candles that already have lids on or keep them in small airtight box.
• AVOID MOISTURE: Humidity can and will affect the wick and cause the wax to sweat, so it's best to store candles in a dry environment.

FINAL THOUGHTS: CAN YOU STILL USE YOUR OLD CANDLE? YES you can! It might have some imperfections that have been developing over time but should still perform okay enough and can be burned safely! It is just they are not in their prime time anymore!

By following the tips in this blog, you can enjoy the warm glow of your favorite candles for years to come.