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How to Choose the Best Container for Your Container Candles?

Jan. 18, 2023

Most new candle makers will start their candle journey by making container candles. They are a good starting point because they are straightforward and fairly easy to make. However, a new candle maker may also find it difficult for them to choose a container that is both as beautiful as a candle and can withstand the heat generated by the candle.

 

Here, we will learn how to choose the best container for your container candles.


Fireproof

No doubt you have seen the trend of using dough bowls and other wooden containers as candle containers. The popularity of these candles may have misled some new candle makers into thinking about what a fireproof candle container is. When raw, these containers can catch fire and are very dangerous. They can absorb wax and can turn into a giant wick. When choosing flammable containers, you are taking a big risk.

 

If you decide to use a dough bowl or other wooden container as your candle holder, you absolutely must first apply a thick coat of 100% waterproof sealer. Never try to use plastic containers for your candles. Even with the thickest sealer, it will still melt from the heat of the candle.

 

Containers made of materials such as cement, terra cotta, and clay are also popular choices for candle containers. When they are in their raw state, they are very porous and can absorb melted wax. This can make them flammable and unsafe. These types of containers also need to be coated with a thick sealant before they can be used to make candles.

Candle Jar and Scented Candles

 Candle Jar and Scented Candles     

Heat resistance

You want to make sure that the container you choose for your candles is heat resistant. If you plan to use glass jars, you should look for jars made of tempered glass. Canning jars can withstand a lot of heat, so they are a good choice. Thin glass can break easily, so something like wine glasses is not recommended.

 

Other types of containers that will not break from the heat of a candle include oven-safe ceramic, cast iron, and canning jars.

 

Shape matters

While it may be tempting to use a container with a unique shape, you need to be very careful not to get into trouble when choosing a wick. You must remember that the wick will form a circular molten pool that remains the same diameter from the first burn to the last.

 

For example, if you choose a container with a thin top and a wide bottom, it will not be possible to wick it properly. A wick that burns out the proper diameter at the top will eventually form a tunnel at the bottom. On the other hand, if you put in a wick that fits into a wide bottom, it will be too hot for the thinner top and could cause the glass to break.

 

It's a better idea to choose something cylindrical that has sides that either go straight up and down or just taper slightly toward the bottom.

 

You also need to make sure that the shape of the container does not make it unstable. Something with an uneven bottom or with a base bottom can easily topple over.

Luxury Rose Gold Glass Jar With Arc Bottom

 Luxury Rose Gold Glass Jar With Arc Bottom     

Other considerations for glass containers

When choosing the right glass jar for your candles, you also need to keep the following points in mind.

 

Recycled glass is not heat resistant, so it is best to avoid using recycled glass.

Glass containers with bubbles all over them should not be used. These bubbles may look pretty, but they are areas where the glass is thinner and more susceptible to heat.

Check your glass carefully for seams, cracks, and leaks. All of this can lead to broken jars and big messes.

 

What is the best container for candles?

Glass

Glass containers may be the most popular type of candle container today, but some glass containers are not safe to use. To make candles in glass, it needs to be thick, smooth and able to withstand high temperatures.

 

Mason jars are safe to use as candle containers because they are designed for pressure canning. This means they can withstand temperatures up to 250F. They are non-porous, smooth and thick enough to avoid cracking.

BOYE Luxury Unique Design Candle Glass Jar

BOYE Luxury Unique Design Candle Glass Jar

 

In fact, any glass jar with these similarities can be ideal for making candles. Here are some jars that are known to be safe for candle making.

 

As for other types of glass, avoid drinking glasses, wine glasses, glass vases and other thin and delicate decorative glass containers.

 

Metal Candle Containers

Candle jars are an excellent choice for candle making. You can choose from many stylish designs and beautiful colors. They are also easy to label on the top, bottom or sides.

 

One of the great things about candle makers is that unlike glass containers, you can't see the wax inside. This makes metal containers for candles a good choice for beginner candle makers. They will hide imperfections such as frosty candles, "wet spots" and uneven pouring.

 

One thing to keep in mind when using cans is their ability to absorb heat. You need to put a warning label on the candle to let people know not to touch it when it's hot because it could burn their hands.

 

Ceramic Candle Containers

Ceramics are perfect for candles! They are durable, heat resistant, and most are already sealed. Basically, if the ceramic container is marked microwaveable and dishwasher safe, it's ready to use!

 

If you are making candles in a previously used ceramic container or mug, make sure it doesn't have any cracks and is in good condition. If you find a ceramic container you like, but it is not sealed - simply apply two coats of sealer to make the candle safe to use.

   Glass Candle

Glass Candle

Concrete Candle Containers

Concrete has become increasingly popular in recent years. It has a unique industrial look, is strong and leak-proof, and is perfect for use as a candle container. It is known to be heat and fire resistant, making it a safe choice for candles. However, concrete is very porous, so it is best to seal candles before pouring them into it.

 

Once you have chosen the container you want to use for your candles, you should not assume that just because your container meets all of the above requirements, it is safe to use. You need to test it thoroughly for combustion before you can be sure it can withstand the heat of a candle.

 

Start by making only one candle and burn it in a safe and controlled environment for at least 4 hours. Do not leave the candle unattended. If your container can withstand this test, then you will know for sure that your candle is safe in the container you have chosen.

 

Conclusion

While there are many different options to choose from when selecting candle containers, there are also many that are not safe to use. Be sure to do your research before investing in several vessels. This includes testing them as candles in a safe place to see how they react to heat.