Will Candles Melt in a Hot Car?

Will candles melt in a hot car?

Will candles melt in a hot car? Yes, they can if the car is hot enough.

Candles on the Go – A Melting Concern

We all love bringing our favourite candles with us, whether it’s for a relaxing weekend getaway or as a thoughtful gift for a friend. But have you ever wondered, “Will candles melt in a hot car?” In this blog post, we’ll dive into the melting points of candles and share some tips on how to transport your Highland Candle Company candles safely, even on the warmest of days.

Coconut Wax and Soy Wax: A Heat-Sensitive Duo

At Highland Candle Company, our candles are made from eco-friendly coconut wax and soy wax. Both of these waxes have lower melting points compared to traditional paraffin wax. While this makes them better for the environment and your indoor air quality, it also means they are more susceptible to melting in high temperatures.

When Will a Candle Start Melting in a Car?

Occasionally, we might leave things in our cars, such as during a shopping trip when we want to visit multiple stores. One common item that could be left behind is a candle. The melting of a candle in a car is influenced by several factors, making it difficult to determine exactly when it will start melting.

Temperature Inside a Car

Cars can heat up quickly, particularly during the summer months. On a hot day, the temperature inside a parked car can soar up to 71°C (160°F). Different types of wax, such as coconut and soy wax, usually have melting points between 49°C (120°F) and 54°C (130°F). As a result, candles left in a hot car may soften, lose their shape, or even melt completely.

Factors Affecting Candle Melting

1. Candle type and size: Smaller candles tend to melt faster than larger ones. Additionally, the type of candle, such as a pillar or tealight, can impact melting time. For example, a paraffin wax candle may begin to melt within 25 to 30 minutes.
2. Car interior temperature: Even if the outside temperature feels comfortable, the internal temperature of a car can be much higher, causing candles to melt.
3. Packaging: The way a candle is packaged can influence its melting point. Different packaging materials, such as wax paper, plastic, or boxes, offer varying levels of heat resistance.
4. Material quality: The specific type and thickness of the packaging material can affect the melting point. For example, some plastic wraps can withstand temperatures up to 212°F, while others used in cooking might not melt until temperatures reach 220° to 250°F.

Wax Paper vs. Plastic Wrap

Wax paper is not heat-resistant, and the wax coating will likely melt along with the candle, creating an additional layer of melted wax. On the other hand, candles wrapped in plastic are less likely to melt unless left in the car for an extended period.

General Guideline

Predicting when a candle will melt in a car is challenging due to the numerous factors involved. As a general rule, avoid leaving candles in your car longer than necessary. However, if it is unavoidable, rest assured that the candle will likely remain intact in the short term.

Can a Melted Candle Be Salvaged?

The possibility of salvaging a melted candle depends on its type and position when it melts.

Pillar and Taper Candles

If a pillar or thin taper candle melts in a car, it is likely to be ruined. However, individual circumstances may vary.

Container Candles

For container candles that have melted in a car while remaining perfectly upright, there is a good chance they can be saved. To restore the candle, place it on a flat surface in a cooler environment, allowing it to harden again. Ensuring that the wick is centred and preventing the wax from spilling during relocation are the main challenges.

Wick Re-centering Technique

To re-centre the wick as the candle cools, use a lollipop stick or a clothespin attached to a wooden skewer. See the demonstration below:

The salvageability of a melted candle depends on its type and the circumstances under which it melted. While pillar and taper candles are more likely to be ruined, container candles can often be saved by repositioning the wick and allowing the wax to harden in a cool environment.

Tips for Transporting Candles Safely in Hot Weather

1. Keep them out of direct sunlight: Store your candles in a shaded area of the car, such as under a seat or in the glove compartment.
2. Use a cooler or insulated bag: Place your candles inside a cooler or insulated bag to help regulate the temperature.
3. Park in the shade: Whenever possible, park your car in a shaded area or use a sunshade to minimize heat buildup.
4. Bring your candles inside: Don’t leave your candles in the car for extended periods. Take them with you when you leave the car to keep them in a more temperature-controlled environment.

5. Consider shipping them: If you’re worried about your candles melting during a long trip, consider having them shipped to your destination instead.

6. Check on your candles frequently: If you must leave your candles in the car, check on them periodically to ensure they are still in good condition.

Tips for Wrapping, Packaging, and Storing Candles to Prevent Melting

To ensure that your candles are less likely to melt, it is crucial to store them properly. Following these steps can help keep your candles in the best condition:

1. Store in a cool place: Keep candles in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight or harsh light sources.
2. Use airtight containers: Storing candles in airtight containers can help maintain their temperature and prevent melting.
3. Select appropriate packaging materials: Wrapping your candles in materials that do not absorb heat can reduce the risk of melting.

Recommended Packaging Method

From the previous discussion, using kitchen plastic wrap designed for cooking and placing the wrapped candle in a cardboard box appears to be the most effective approach for keeping candles cool, preventing them from melting, and protecting them from other wax or materials.

Using the recommended packaging method, you can minimize the chances of your candles melting, ensuring they remain in pristine condition.

Keep Your Candles Safe and Enjoy Their Warmth

By following these tips, you can transport your Highland Candle Company candles safely, even on hot days. Keep your candles looking and smelling great so you can continue to enjoy their warmth and soothing ambience wherever you go.