Does Summer Weather Affect Your Candles? Tips for How To Make Your Candles Last!

Summer weather is upon us! With the summer solstice in our rearview mirrors, temperatures are already rising here in SoCal. As the seasons change, we begin switching out our cozy winter candles for some fresh summer scents. In an attempt to escape the heat that will soon permeate, we search for the scents of mouth-watering citrus and refreshing cool waters. 

It should be noted, that just like most beauty products, candles are sensitive to this extreme heat and warm weather wave that swells each summer. 

Tips for Making Your Candles Last Through Summer Heat

1. Choose a cool location: Find a cool, dry area in your home where the temperature is relatively stable. Avoid storing candles in places that are exposed to direct sunlight or near heat sources such as radiators, vents, or windows.

   

2. Use opaque containers: Store your candles in opaque containers or boxes to shield them from sunlight. This will help preserve the colors and integrity of your candles.

3. Keep them upright: Store candles in an upright position to maintain their shape and prevent any warping or bending that may occur due to heat. It's generally best to keep them in a vertical position to prevent them from leaning or becoming misshapen.

4. Wrap them in protective material: For extra protection, you can individually wrap candles in tissue paper or bubble wrap before storing them. This will provide an additional layer of insulation and prevent them from coming in contact with heat, reducing the risk of damage until you’re ready to light them.

5. Avoid extreme temperatures: Try to maintain a consistent temperature in the storage area. Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause the wax to expand and contract, potentially leading to cracks or other damage. This is why the changing seasons can be damaging if you don’t take recommended precautions.

6. Check expiration dates: If you have scented candles with fragrance oils, check the expiration dates on the packaging. Over time, the fragrance can diminish, so it's best to use them before they lose their potency.

Best Candle Wax Formula Techniques for Summer

Just because it’s summer doesn’t mean you should pack away your candles! This is why candle manufacturers take certain measures and formulate candles to endure most summer weather conditions. 

Here are some ways candles can be formulated to withstand the effects of heat and sunlight:

1. Wax selection: Choosing the appropriate wax is crucial for candles that will be exposed to warm temperatures. Some waxes, such as soy wax or blends with additives, have higher melting points, making them more resistant to heat. These waxes have a better chance of retaining their shape and structure in hotter conditions.

2. Additives and stabilizers: Candle formulations may include additives and stabilizers to enhance the heat resistance of the wax. These additives can help increase the melting point of the wax, improve its stability, and reduce the risk of melting or deformation in high temperatures.

3. UV inhibitors: Candle dyes and fragrances can be vulnerable to fading or degradation when exposed to sunlight. To combat this, manufacturers may incorporate UV inhibitors into the formulation. UV inhibitors help to minimize color fading and protect the candle from the damaging effects of sunlight.

4. Scent formulation: Scented candles intended for summer use may be formulated with fragrance oils that are less volatile or prone to evaporation in higher temperatures. This helps to maintain a consistent and lasting scent throw, even in warm weather.

5. Container selection: For container candles, manufacturers may choose containers made of materials that can withstand heat and insulate the candle. Heat-resistant glass, tin, or other suitable materials can help protect the candle from direct heat and sun exposure. 

6. Quality Assurance: For example, Four Truffles has its entire manufacturing facility under one roof so each step of the candle-making process undergoes proper testing for stability and compatibility of all materials.

It's important to note that while these formulation techniques can improve the resilience of candles in summer weather, extreme conditions can still affect them. It's always recommended to follow general storage and usage guidelines to ensure the best performance and longevity of your candles in summer.

Best Summer Candle Scents

When selecting candle scents for the summer months and warmer temperatures, it's best to choose fragrances that are fresh, light, and invigorating. Here are some candle scents that tend to hold up well in the summer and can be enjoyed even in the heat:

1. Citrus: Scents like lemon, lime, orange, grapefruit, and bergamot are refreshing and energizing. They can help create a bright and uplifting atmosphere, perfect for summer.

2. Herbal and botanical: Scents like lavender, mint, eucalyptus, rosemary, and basil can bring a cooling and calming effect to your space. These herbal and botanical fragrances can evoke a sense of relaxation and tranquility.

3. Tropical fruits: Fragrances such as pineapple, mango, coconut, and passion fruit can transport you to a tropical paradise. These fruity scents are often associated with summer vacations and can create a cheerful and exotic ambiance.

4. Ocean breeze: Scents inspired by the ocean, like sea salt, sea breeze, and marine notes, can provide a fresh and airy feel. These fragrances can evoke a sense of coastal relaxation and rejuvenation.

5. Floral: Light and delicate floral scents, such as jasmine, honeysuckle, and lily of the valley, can add a touch of elegance and freshness to your space. They can create a soothing and pleasant environment during the summer months.

6. Green and grassy: Scents like freshly cut grass, green tea, and cucumber can bring a sense of vitality and a natural outdoorsy feel. These scents are often associated with a lush and verdant summer landscape.

7. Refreshing blends: Look for candle scents that combine multiple fresh elements, such as citrus and mint or floral and herbal notes. These refreshing blends can offer a complex and invigorating aroma that works well in warmer temperatures. 

Remember, personal scent preferences may vary, so it's important to choose fragrances that you find appealing and enjoyable. Consider testing smaller-sized candles or scent tester samples before committing to larger ones to ensure you love the scent in your specific environment.