how to keep candles from melting outside

When placing candles outside, whether for an event or as a part of your outdoor decor, it’s important to prevent them from melting in the warm environment. Here are some strategies and steps to help you keep your candles from melting when they’re outside.

Create Shade

One of the most effective ways to prevent your candles from melting outside is to shield them from direct sunlight. You can create shade using various items such as:

1. Umbrellas: Place your candles under an outdoor umbrella or a sun-shade canopy to block direct sunlight.
2. Pergolas: If you’re setting up near a structure like a pergola or gazebo, position the candles where the slats or canopy provide shade.
3. DIY Shade: Create your own shade using a piece of cloth or cardboard, but make sure that it’s secure enough not to tip over or catch fire.

Use Wind Protection

A light breeze can contribute to a faster melting rate by blowing the heat from the candle flame across its surface. Protect your candles from the wind by:

1. Using Lanterns: Encase your candles in decorative lanterns that not only shelter the flame but also provide some insulation against the heat.
2. Wind Breaks: Establish a windbreak using a screen or a panel if you’re in a particularly breezy area.

Choose the Right Candles

The type of candle can make a big difference in how well it withstands outdoor temperatures. Consider these options:

1. Thicker Candles: Candles with a larger diameter will melt slower than thin ones due to a larger volume of wax that needs to heat up.
2. Beeswax or Soy Candles: These types of wax have higher melting points than traditional paraffin wax candles.
3. Pillar Candles: Covered by an outer shell of wax that doesn’t melt as quickly, which can protect the inner wax from melting too fast.

Time Your Candle Use

Choose to light your candles at times of the day when the temperature is cooler, such as:

1. In the Evening: Once the sun has set, not only will the temperatures generally be lower, but the ambience created by candlelight is also enhanced.
2. Early in the Day: If your event is during the day, try to use candles in the early morning when it’s cooler.

Use Candle Stabilizers

There are products specifically made to help stabilize candles and slow their melting process outside, such as:

1. Candle Adhesive: This can keep your candles attached firmly to the holder, which helps to protect the base from heat that can come from surfaces heated by the sun.
2. Water-Filled Candle Holders: Some candle holders can be filled with water to create a barrier between the candle and the warm air.

Reflective Surfaces

Placing candles on reflective surfaces can help deflect some of the heat away from the candles. Mirror tiles or aluminum foil can serve this purpose.

Conclusion

Preventing candles from melting outside is all about managing exposure to the elements, particularly heat and wind. By providing shade, using windbreaks, selecting candles with higher melting points, timing when you burn the candles, and using products designed to stabilize and protect them, you can enjoy the beauty and ambiance of outdoor candles without them melting away too quickly. Always remember to handle candles with care and never leave them unattended, especially outdoors where variables can change quickly.