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The Best Candles

Last updated on March 15, 2024

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Whether you want to create a romantic ambiance, or you don’t have access to electricity, a candle is an excellent option. Not only does it act as a light source, but it also helps to set the mood. If you opt for a scented candle, you can also create a specific atmosphere based on the types of scents used in the candle, which can help people both relax or energize.

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A candle is essentially an ignitable wick, which is embedded in a cylinder of wax. It’s an interesting system because the fuel (the wax) is also the package of the igniting system (the wick). A candle wick is typically a kind of twine that is absorbent. This factor is key in igniting. The way a wick works is that it absorbs the liquid wax and moves it up the wick while the top of it burns.

The main aspect to consider when buying candles is what you’re going to use them for. If they are primarily a source of light, then you’ll want to ensure the candles you buy have a long burn time. If you’re using candles for ambiance, then there are additional aspects to note, such as color, scent and style.

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There are many instances when candles come in handy. In addition to creating a romantic atmosphere or providing light, candles are actually good for your health. Lighting a candle can create a sense of calm for many people, and help those who are overcome by feelings of anxiety. For those who meditate or pray, candles can aid in visualization and manifestation techniques where you have to focus on the burning flame.

Our Picks For The Top Candles

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Product Overview
Our Take
 Top Pick

NEST Fragrances Decorative Wax Candle

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NEST Fragrances

Decorative Wax Candle

The attractive gift box that surrounds this candle makes it an ideal present for a variety of occasions, including Christmas, anniversary and birthday celebrations. The 21.2-ounce candle sits inside an attractive glass holder and sports three wicks that can burn for up to 100 hours.

Overall Take

Ideal for Gift GivingYou'll find this candle comes in a wide range of fragrances, including pumpkin chai, amalfi lemon and mint and ocean mist and sea salt.

 Runner Up

Yankee Candle Long-Lasting Balsam & Cedar Candle

Yankee Candle

Long-Lasting Balsam & Cedar Candle

Perfect for the holidays, this candle has notes of citrus, herbs, red berry pine balsam and much more. The paraffin-grade wax provides a clear and consistent burn. This candle has a burn time of 110-150 hours.

Overall Take

Festive Forest FragranceThis candle reminds you of an evergreen tree in a jar.

 We Also Like

Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Long-Lasting Candle, 2-Pack

Mrs. Meyer's

Clean Day Long-Lasting Candle, 2-Pack

You'll enjoy a long 35-hour burn when you opt for this set of aromatherapy candles. The scented candles are constructed from renewable materials. The jars are made from a reusable glass and the candles provide a fresh garden scent that is extremely pleasing to the senses.

Overall Take

Lovely and RelaxingThese aromatherapy candles have a calming lavender scent.

 Strong Contender

Mrs. Meyer’s Honeysuckle Reusable Jar Candle

Mrs. Meyer's

Honeysuckle Reusable Jar Candle

In addition to containing renewable ingredients, this scented candle is housed in a recyclable jar. Consumers have a choice between six different scents, including honeysuckle, lavender and apple cider. The ingredients are never tested on animals, so you can feel good about your purchase.

Overall Take

Contains Renewable IngredientsThis scented candle with honeysuckle fragrance makes for an excellent holiday or birthday gift.

What to Look For

  • One of the most important elements to look at when buying a candle is what kind of materials are used to make it. Opt for premium soy wax as opposed to wax made from crude oil by-products. For with wick, a 100% cotton wick is best, though you can also find lead wicks on the market which may be harmful to some.
  • When it comes to candle scents, decide whether you want to go natural or not. In natural candles, the scent comes from perfume-grade fragrances and essential oils. Sometimes, however, manufacturers may use synthetic fragrances and artificial colors, which can release harmful toxins in the air when burned.
  • In order to get the maximum amount of burn time from your candle, only light your candle for two to three hours at a time. Be sure to trim your wick about a quarter-inch before you light your candle. This is an important step you should do each time. This way, you can control the amount of wax (which is the fuel for the candle) on the wick, which in turn means that there will be less soot created as the candle burns.
  • In order to keep your candles in perfect shape, be sure to store them in a cool, dry place without moisture. For example, don’t keep them in the bathroom or kitchen. Sometimes the essential oils in the candles can get discolored when they are exposed to a lot of moisture. Sunshine can also have the same effect.
  • While candles are useful, they also add to your home décor. Be sure to pick one which complements your style. You can find candles in stylish jars and in different colors. Select one that matches your décor or go for a bold look by picking a candle that provides a bright accent color.

More to Explore

Have you ever had a candle where the wax melts only around the wick, but there is a ring of solid wax around the edges of the candle? This process of called tunneling, and it’s something you want to avoid. If you have a candle where tunneling is starting to occur, use a small piece of tin foil to cover the top of your candle. Snip a small opening for the wick, and pop it out of the foil. Light the wick and burn your candle with the foil covering on for a few hours. This will help the outer edges of your candle to melt evenly with the insides, reducing the amount of tunneling.

More to explore