Soy candles have become a favorite for many because they’re natural, clean-burning, and environmentally friendly. Whether you make your own soy candles or love buying high-quality scented ones, proper storage is key to keeping them looking and smelling their best
Improper storage can cause soy candles to lose their fragrance, change in color, become dusty, or even melt or crack. This is because soy wax is much softer and more sensitive than paraffin wax, and it needs a little extra care.
In this guide, we’ll explore in detail how to store soy candles the right way to help preserve both their fragrance and appearance over time.
Why Is It Important to Store Soy Candles Properly?
You might be wondering if I’m not using my soy candle every day, can’t I just leave it on a shelf until I need it again?
Actually, storing your soy candles improperly can have a noticeable effect on how well they burn and smell when you finally light them.
Here’s why it matters:
- Soy wax is sensitive to temperature – It can easily melt or soften if left in warm areas.
- Fragrance oils are volatile – They can evaporate or break down when exposed to heat, light, or air.
- Natural wax absorbs odors – Soy wax can take on smells from its environment if not sealed properly.
- Dust and particles stick easily – The smooth surface of the wax attracts dust and debris when left uncovered.
Proper storage helps:
- Maintain a strong fragrance
- Protect the wax from melting, frosting, or cracking
- Keep the wick in good condition
- Prevent color fading or discoloration
- Ensure a smooth, even burn when used later
1. Store in a Cool, Dry, Stable Environment
Soy wax has a lower melting point compared to other waxes. This makes it more sensitive to warm temperatures. If your candle gets too warm, the wax can start to soften, sweat (release excess oil), or even deform.
What to do:
- Store your candles in a cool, dry place ideally between 15°C and 21°C (60°F to 70°F).
- Keep them away from heat sources like ovens, radiators, or direct sunlight.
- Ensure the storage area has good air circulation and isn’t too humid, which can affect wax texture.
Where to store them:
- In a cupboard or drawer
- On a shelf that doesn’t get direct sun exposure
- In a storage box with a lid
- A temperature-controlled closet or container
Avoid:
- Storing candles in cars, garages, attics, or sheds these areas experience extreme temperature swings.
- Leaving candles near windows or vents.
2. Keep Them Out of Direct Sunlight
Sunlight can affect both the appearance and the scent of soy candles.
Direct UV light can cause:
- Color fading or yellowing of naturally white wax
- Breakdown of fragrance oils, weakening the scent
- Surface frosting, a natural effect on soy wax that creates a cloudy or dusty look
Best practices:
- If displaying your candles, do so in a shaded area.
- Store unused candles in opaque boxes, fabric bags, or inside drawers.
- Avoid leaving candles in glass containers near windows, where magnified sunlight can overheat the wax.
3. Use Airtight Containers or Covers
Soy wax is made from natural ingredients, including essential oils and plant-based oils. These oils can start to break down or evaporate when exposed to open air for long periods.
Benefits of airtight storage:
- Locks in the candle’s original fragrance
- Protects wax from absorbing nearby odors
- Prevents dust and dirt from settling on the surface
Tips:
- Keep candles in their original glass jars with lids, if they came with one.
- If no lid is available, wrap the top of the jar in cling film or place the entire candle in a resealable plastic bag.
- For pillar or containerless candles, store them in airtight containers with separators to prevent them from rubbing against each other.
4. Avoid Storing Near Strong Odors
Soy wax is porous by nature. If stored near items with strong smells, such as cleaning products, food, perfumes, or smoke, the candle can absorb these scents.
This can ruin the fragrance profile and lead to a muddled or unpleasant scent when burned.
Storage suggestions:
- Store soy candles away from kitchens, laundry rooms, or bathrooms.
- Avoid keeping candles near incense, potpourri, or scented sprays.
- Separate candles with different scents to prevent scent mixing. You can use dividers, pouches, or separate compartments.
5. Trim the Wick Before Storing
Many candle users focus only on trimming the wick before lighting. But trimming it before storing is just as helpful.
Long or bent wicks can:
- Snap, curl, or become misshapen over time
- Rub against container walls, leaving marks
- Make it harder to light when you’re ready to use the candle
What to do:
- Use scissors or a wick trimmer to cut the wick to about ¼ inch (6 mm).
- When you pull the candle out again after a few months, inspect and re-trim if needed before lighting.
6. Store Candles Upright and Protected
The position you store your candle in matters especially if it’s in a soft container or doesn’t have one at all.
Storing upright helps:
- Maintain the flat top of the wax surface
- Keep the wick centered and undamaged
- Prevent wax from denting or getting scratched
If you’re stacking candles or packing them for long-term storage:
- Use padding between candles (bubble wrap, foam, or thick tissue paper)
- Don’t stack too many candles directly on top of each other
- Make sure containers are stable and not tilted
7. Label or Note the Scent and Purchase Date
Like all natural products, soy candles have a shelf life usually around 12 to 18 months depending on how they’re stored. After that, the scent might weaken even if the wax looks fine.
If you have many candles or store them for seasonal use, it’s helpful to:
- Label each candle with the scent name
- Note the pouring or purchase date
- Use older candles first to enjoy their full fragrance
This is especially important for DIY soy candles or handmade artisan ones that may not include an expiration date.
Final Thoughts
Storing soy candles properly is one of the easiest ways to protect your investment in quality fragrance and home atmosphere. Whether you burn candles every day or only occasionally, the right storage method ensures your soy candles always look beautiful and smell their best.
To recap, remember these tips:
- Keep candles in a cool, dry, dark place
- Use lids or airtight containers to preserve scent
- Store upright, away from sunlight and heat
- Trim the wick and note the purchase date
- Separate different scents and avoid storing near strong odors
By taking a little time to store them the right way, you’ll get more value and enjoyment out of every soy candle you own.
