Candle Foods in the Fridge? Here’s What You Should Do
When it comes to food storage, most people think of the basics: keeping perishable items in the fridge and non-perishables in the pantry. But have you ever thought about storing candles in the fridge? It might sound strange, but it’s a practice some swear by for a few surprising benefits.
In this article, we’ll explore why you might want to store candles in the fridge, what benefits it offers, and how to properly store your candles for longevity.
Why Store Candles in the Fridge?
At first glance, the idea of storing candles in the fridge may seem odd. After all, candles aren’t food! But there are a few reasons why some candle enthusiasts (and even some manufacturers) recommend refrigerating candles. Let’s take a look:
- Extends Burn Time
One of the most common reasons people store candles in the fridge is to prolong their burn time. Candles, especially ones made from paraffin, can burn more slowly when they’re stored in a cooler environment. The cooler temperature solidifies the wax, which can cause it to burn more evenly and for a longer period of time. This can be especially useful for larger candles that are expensive or for special candles you want to use sparingly. - Prevents Tunneling
If you’ve ever burned a candle and noticed that the wax melts down the middle, leaving a ring of unmelted wax around the edges, you’ve encountered tunneling. Refrigerating your candle can help prevent this because it keeps the wax at a more solid state, encouraging a more even melt when the candle is lit. This is particularly beneficial for larger or layered candles. - Hardens Soft Wax
Some candles, especially those made from softer waxes (like soy or beeswax), may be too soft to handle during transportation or storage. Storing them in the fridge can help firm up the wax, making it less likely to dent, scratch, or become misshapen. This can be a great way to ensure your candles stay intact if you’ve bought a particularly delicate design. - Fragrance Preservation
Candles with complex fragrances c
an lose their scent over time due to heat and light exposure. Keeping them in the fridge helps preserve the scent because the cool environment prevents the fragrance oils from dissipating too quickly. This is especially beneficial if you’re not using your candles frequently and want to keep them as fragrant as possible for when you do light them.
- For Complete Cooking STEPS Please Head On Over To Next Page Or Open button (>) and don’t forget to SHARE with your Facebook friends
How to Store Candles in the Fridge Properly
If you’ve decided to give refrigerating your candles a try, it’s important to follow a few simple steps to ensure you’re doing it correctly. Proper storage will help maximize the benefits without causing any damage to the candles.
- Wrap Your Candles
Candles should be wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container before placing them in the fridge. This will prevent the candle from absorbing any food odors from the fridge. Candles have a porous surface, and you don’t want them to take on any unwanted smells that could affect their fragrance when burned. - Avoid Storing in the Freezer
While storing candles in the fridge is beneficial, don’t store them in the freezer. Freezing candles can cause the wax to become too brittle and may even result in cracks or breakage. The fridge is ideal for a cooler environment, while the freezer is too harsh. - Keep Candles Upright
Just like when you store candles at room temperature, make sure they’re stored upright in the fridge. This helps maintain their shape and prevents the wax from deforming. - Only Store for Short Periods
While refrigerating candles can extend their burn time, you don’t want to leave them in the fridge indefinitely. The fridge is great for short-term storage, especially if you plan to use the candles soon or if you want to preserve their scent and shape. After a few days or weeks, it’s best to return your candles to room temperature for the most enjoyable experience when you light them.
What About Storing Candles Long-Term?
If you’re planning to store candles for the long haul—perhaps because they’re seasonal or sentimental—it’s important to know the best practices for long-term storage, aside from the fridge.
- Keep Candles in a Cool, Dark Place
A cool, dark environment is the best for candle storage. Heat and light can degrade the quality of both the wax and the fragrance over time. A drawer, closet, or box away from direct sunlight will help keep your candles in great condition. - Store Candles Away from Extreme Temperatures
While refrigerating can extend the burn time for short periods, long-term storage in extreme cold or heat can cause damage to your candles. Avoid placing candles near radiators, heating vents, or other heat sources. - Avoid Humid Areas
Humidity can affect both the wax and the wick of your candles. Store them in a dry place to prevent any mold or mildew from developing.
Final Thoughts: Should You Store Your Candles in the Fridge?
Storing your candles in the fridge is a handy trick that many candle lovers swear by, and it can offer several benefits like extended burn time, better scent preservation, and more even burning. However, it’s important to store them properly to avoid damage, and it’s best used for short-term storage.
If you’re looking to keep your candles fresh, firm, and fragrant, and if you don’t mind a bit of extra prep, refrigerating your candles could be a simple and effective solution. Just remember to wrap them tightly, avoid freezing them, and store them upright to preserve their quality!
Give it a try, and enjoy your candles even longer. Your next candlelit evening may just be a little more special.
ADVERTISEMENT
