What Can I Burn A Candle On?

Updated on December 8, 2022

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What Can I Burn A Candle On?

If you do decide to light candles, you should keep in mind that you should burn them on heat-resistant surfaces. These surfaces include glass, metal, ceramic, soapstone, granite, and wood.

Please note that heat-resistant doesn't mean heat-proof. Heat-resistant surfaces can withstand warmer temperatures than other surfaces. For instance, heat-resistant surfaces can handle temperatures between 100°F and 450°F.

Other surfaces, however, cannot tolerate warm temperatures above 400°F. So, if you plan on burning pillar candles, please remember to only place them on heat-resistant materials.

Heat Resistant Surfaces You Can Burn Candles On

Candleholders are typically made from metal, glass, ceramic, plastic, or wood. Metal and glass are considered heat resistant, meaning they can withstand high temperatures without melting or breaking down. Ceramics and plastic are less heat resistant.

So if you plan to burn larger candles on those types of surfaces, you should place them on a heat-safe surface. Wood is the least heat-resistant material, so you'll want to avoid burning perfect candles on wooden surfaces.

6 Surfaces To Burn A Candle On

Here is a description of the best 6 heat resistance surfaces on which you can safely burn candles:

1. Glass

You should definitely consider using glass jars if you plan on burning a professional candle. Glass is heat resistant and keeps the wax from melting too quickly. You'll also avoid the possibility of the wax dripping down onto other surfaces in your home.

However, if you don't want to use glass jars, there are still options available. Transferring the candle to a glass tray or glass table is another way to keep the wax contained without risking damage to anything else in your home.

There are also non-glass alternatives that work well. Glass container candles made out of paraffin wax are great choices since they are safe for burning indoors. Paraffin wax burns slower than most other types of wax, making it easier to control the flame.

Also, you can always opt for a smooth and level-topped candle that doesn't come in a glass jar, such as a soy wax candle. These candles are safe for indoor burning and do not drip wax.

Pros

Glass is heat resistant and protects against the wax dripping on other surfaces in your home

Cons

It may break if heated too high

2. Ceramic

If you're using candles made of wax, you'll want to keep them away from anything flammable. A ceramic container makes a safe alternative to glass or metal.

You can place your candle on ceramic plates or in ceramic bowls or cups. These types of containers are easy to clean and won't crack or break. Plus, they are heat-resistant and non-flammable.

Make sure to treat your ceramic candle containers well. Seal off all the porous spaces and cracks to prevent spills and leaks. Also, avoid placing hot items directly on the surface of your ceramic candle containers.

3. Heat Resistant Wood

Burning candles on wood isn't recommended because it can cause damage to the surface. However, if you really want to burn a votive candle on wood, there are certain types of wood that can withstand extreme heat and still look great.

There are two main types of wood that are used for making heat-resistant wood: cedar and redwood. Both of these woods are very strong and durable, and they won't warp or crack under extreme heat. You can find heat-resistant wood at most hardware stores.

You'll notice that heat-resistant wood comes in several different finishes. Some are painted, others are stained, and some are left natural.

Whatever finish you choose, you should avoid using wax or paraffin oil to seal the wood. These substances can melt away during the heating process and leave behind unsightly stains.

Pros

Cons

4. Metal

Metal jars and containers are ideal for holding your wax because they won't leak and conduct heat. You'll find stainless steel and aluminum at most hardware stores. These metals are durable and can last for years.

However, if you decide to buy a metal container, make sure that it comes without any cracks or holes. Cracks and holes can cause leaks, which means that your wax will spill out.

5. Granite

Granite is a very hard stone that is used in making countertops. It's extremely heat resistant and doesn't show signs of wear and tear after years of use. Because of its hardness, it's recommended to place entire candles directly on it.

Pros

Cons

6. Soapstone

This soapstone candle warmer is great if you want to add warmth to your home without using electricity. It doesn't require any maintenance and won't scratch or chip. You can also use it to keep your favorite scented candles burning for hours at a time.

What Not To Use For Candle Burning

Some candle holders are meant to hold multiple candles at once, while others are single-use only. You may find yourself wondering if you can burn a favorite candle on a specific surface. Here are some common surfaces that you should avoid using for actual candle burning.

Plastic: Plastics are not heat-safe, so don't place a lit candle on a plastic surface. Even though plastics are usually flame resistant, they still melt easily. A melted plastic surface can drip wax onto nearby items, causing a fire hazard.

Fabric: Don't place a lit candle directly on a fabric surface. Fabrics are highly flammable, so they can catch fire very easily.

Tin: Tin is a good heat conductor, meaning that it heats up faster than most other non-combustible materials. This makes it unsafe to burn a custom candle directly on a tin surface.

Paper: Paper is highly flammable, so it's not recommended to light a candle on paper. Also, drips of wax on paper can start fires.

Books: Books are another item that should never be used for candle burning. They are highly flammable due to their paper composition.

Candle holders come in all shapes and sizes. Some are meant to hold multiple candles at once, others are single candle holders, and still, others are decorative pieces. Whatever kind of dinner candle holder you decide to buy, make sure that it meets the following criteria:

Benefits Of Using Candles At Home

Candles can serve as a decorative item at home, as well as a therapeutic tool. There are several mental benefits associated with using candles at home.

There are several reasons why you should consider adding candles to your home décor. First, they add a soothing scent that reduces stress levels. Second, candles can serve as a mood booster. Third, they can enhance sleep quality. Fourth and finally, they can help relieve chronic pain.

Conclusion

Candleholders are essential if you have candles in your house. You'll want to make sure that you choose safe surfaces for your candles. Candles are dangerous enough without putting yourself at risk of fire.

Before buying a candleholder, make sure that you choose a safe surface. Choose a non-flammable surface, such as ceramic tile, glass, or metal. Avoid using wood, paper, plastic, or any other material that may catch fire.

Make sure that you keep your candleholder clean. Clean it regularly to prevent mold growth. Also, never leave your candle unattended. Keep it away from children and pets.

Smell is one of the human senses which can flow through the whole body. I am the Founder of NeoCandle.com where we talk all about scented candles. Known as Candace the Candle Girl, I know pretty much all there is to know about scented candles. I make and sell them on Etsy and Ebay - so be sure to ask if you have any burning questions :) (pun intended ;) )

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