How Long Does a Candle Last?

Candles have existed for centuries, and many rely on them for various purposes. Whether you hope to create a soothing atmosphere, fight off the darkness of the night, or just bring a little extra light into your space, candles often seem like the perfect answer. But how long do they last? Here, we will provide an answer to this important question.

How Long Does A Candle Burn?

When it comes to the question “How long do candles burn for,” there is no single answer. Different types of candles have varying burn times due to their construction and the type of wax they are made from. The bigger the candle, the longer it will last; however, this is not a hard and fast rule. It is also important to note that the type of wick used can also affect how long a candle will burn.

The environment in which the candle is burned can also affect the burn time. For example, burning a candle in a drafty room can cause the flame to flicker and the candle to burn faster. Additionally, burning multiple candles at once can cause the candles to burn faster due to the increased heat in the room. 

Types of Candles – Estimated Burn Times

The most common types of candles are votives, pillars, and tapers; each burn for different lengths of time. Votives are typically small and have an estimated burn time of 8-15 hours. Pillar candles come in various sizes, with smaller ones usually burning for up to 15 hours and larger ones burning for up to 115 hours. Finally, tapers are typically quite tall and thin and generally have an average burn time of 4 hours.

When burning candles, it is important to remember never to leave them unattended. It is also important to trim the wick to 1/4 inch before lighting the candle, as this will help the candle to burn more evenly and reduce the risk of a flame becoming too large. It is also important to keep the candle away from flammable materials and extinguish the flame before leaving the room.

Factors That Affect How Long A Candle Lasts

Several factors can affect how long a candle will last. The size of the wick can significantly impact burn time, as a larger wick may create a bigger flame that uses more of the wax to burn. Fragrance or color-producing additives also decrease burn time. Heat and airflow can also affect how long a candle lasts, as a cooler room will cause a candle to burn slower than one in a warmer room.

The wax used in the candle can also affect the burn time. Paraffin wax is the most common type of wax used in candles, and it typically has a longer burn time than other waxes. Soy wax is another popular option, and it is known for having a slower burn time than paraffin wax; you can buy the best soy wax candles at 96NORTH. Beeswax is also popular, known for having a longer burn time than other waxes.

Tips For Making Your Candle Last Longer

There are several strategies you can employ to increase the lifespan of your candles:

1. Trim the wick before each use, preventing excess smoke from forming.
2. Ensure proper ventilation in the space where you’re burning the candle, as too much heat or airflow may cause the wax to burn quicker than expected.
3. Avoid moving or touching the candle too much, which may disrupt the wax’s flame.

You can also use a candle snuffer to extinguish the flame, which will help prevent the wick from becoming too long. Additionally, store your candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which will help preserve the wax and prevent it from melting too quickly. Finally, use a candle holder that is the correct size for your candle, as this will help keep the wax from spilling over the sides.

Alternatives To Candles For Long-Lasting Lighting

If you are looking for something longer-lasting than regular candles, a few alternatives may be worth considering. Oil lamps and lamps fueled with kerosene can provide light for up to 60 hours without being replaced. Battery-powered flameless candles are also ideal, lasting up to 500 hours without refueling.

Solar-powered lamps are another great option for long-lasting lighting. These lamps are powered by the sun and can provide up to 12 hours of light on a single charge. They are also environmentally friendly and require no additional fuel or electricity.

How To Dispose Of Candles Safely

When it’s time to dispose of your candles, you should always do so in a safe way that doesn’t pose a risk to humans or animals. First, make sure that you never leave your burning candles unattended. Once they’ve burned out, let them cool completely before disposing of them. You can then pour it into a container and dispose of it with other household garbage. 

If you have any leftover wax, you can also reuse it to make new candles. Simply melt the wax in a double boiler and add a wick to the container. Once the wax has cooled, you can trim the wick and enjoy your new candle!

How Long Should A Candle Last?

The answer to how long a candle will last is not as simple as one might expect, as many variables come into play. Different types of candles have different estimated burn times, and factors like wick size, additives, heat, and airflow can also impact their longevity. 

In this article, we’ve provided some tips for making your candles last longer and alternatives that provide longer-lasting lighting than candles. 

96NORTH Premium Candles

96NORTH sells the best soy wax candles on the market. We have a wide variety of naturally-scented candles, such as Madagascar vanilla and tropical coconut, which can transform your home into a serene, relaxing landscape.

Allow our candles to carry you to distant countries, atmospheres, and settings. Embrace their fragrance and journey through the aroma of beautiful exotic beaches and jaw-dropping lush jungles. 

Allow the luxurious scents of 96NORTH’s candles to turn your house into a comfortable and relaxing home. Shop our selection of soy scented candles on our website.

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