As the festive season comes to an end, it's time to bid farewell to the twinkling lights, the aroma of cinnamon-spiced treats, and the warm glow of Christmas candles. But before you tuck away these festive treasures until next year, it's essential to store them properly to ensure they retain their beauty and fragrance. In this guide, we'll explore some practical tips on how to store Christmas candles to keep them in perfect condition for the seasons to come.
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Clean Before You Store: Before you think about storage, take a moment to ensure your candles are clean. Over the holiday season, candles may accumulate dust and soot. Wipe them gently with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any dirt or residue. This not only keeps them looking pristine but also prevents these impurities from affecting the candles when you next light them.
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Use Lids or Containers: To protect your candles from dust, consider using a lid or placing them in containers with lids. Lidded containers create a barrier that shields the candles from dust and prevents them from absorbing unwanted odours. If your candles came with their original containers or lids, use them for the best fit. Otherwise, look for containers that are appropriately sized and have secure lids.
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Wrap in Tissue Paper: For added protection, wrap your candles in tissue paper before placing them in containers. Tissue paper acts as a buffer against scratches and helps maintain the candles' integrity. Individual wrapping is especially useful for delicate candles or those with intricate designs. Avoid using plastic wrap directly on the candles, as it may cause damage due to heat or stickiness.
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Mind the Temperature: Candles are sensitive to temperature fluctuations. To preserve their shape, colour, texture, and fragrance, store them in a cool, dark place. Avoid exposing candles to extreme heat or cold, as this can cause the wax to become brittle or discoloured. A closet or a dedicated storage box in a temperature-controlled room is an ideal choice. Remember that sunlight can also fade colours, so choose a dark storage spot to maintain the candles' vibrancy.
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Arrange Them Carefully: When placing candles in storage, arrange them carefully to avoid any potential damage. Stand taper candles upright in a container or secure them in a box with dividers to prevent bending. For pillar candles, lay them flat in layers, separated by tissue paper, to prevent them from sticking together or becoming misshapen. If you're storing multiple candles in the same container, ensure they don't touch to prevent any damage during storage.
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Label Your Storage Boxes: Organise your candles by type, size, or fragrance and label your storage boxes accordingly. This will make it easier to locate specific candles when the next holiday season rolls around. Clearly marked boxes also reduce the risk of accidentally knocking over candles while rummaging through storage.
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Inspect Before Reuse: Before lighting your stored candles for the next festive season, take a moment to inspect them. Check for any signs of damage, discolouration, or unusual odours. If a candle appears compromised, it's better to discard it to prevent any safety hazards. Proper storage significantly extends the life of your candles, but it's essential to ensure their integrity before use. Put your candle on a flat heat proof surface, and trim the wick before lighting.
Preserving the magic of Christmas doesn't end when the decorations come down. Properly storing your Christmas candles ensures that the warmth, beauty, and fragrance they brought to your holiday season will be ready to enchant your home once again next year. By following these simple yet effective tips, you'll be able to enjoy the glow of your favourite candles and the decorative touch they bring for many festive seasons to come. So, take a moment to care for your candles, and when the next holiday season arrives, you'll be greeted with the familiar, comforting ambiance that only well-preserved Christmas candles can provide.