As the chill of winter sets in, you might find yourself lighting candles to bring warmth and ambiance to your space. However, have you ever noticed mysterious "wet spots" on your candles? If you’ve been wondering why they appear or if they’re a cause for concern, you’re not alone! Let’s unravel this common candle phenomenon.
What Are Wet Spots on Candles?
Wet spots are areas on a candle where the wax appears to have separated from the container, leaving translucent patches or uneven surfaces. These spots are especially noticeable on glass jar candles and can give the impression that something’s gone wrong during the candle-making process. Rest assured, wet spots are completely natural and do not affect the performance or safety of your candle.
Why Do Wet Spots Occur?
The primary culprit behind wet spots is temperature fluctuation. As wax cools, it contracts. If the cooling process isn’t perfectly uniform or the room’s temperature fluctuates, the wax might pull away slightly from the container.
Humidity and the type of wax used also play a role. Natural waxes, like the organic beeswax and coconut wax in our candles, are more prone to this because they lack synthetic additives that could help prevent the separation.
Are Wet Spots a Sign of Poor Quality?
Not at all! In fact, the presence of wet spots is often an indicator that the candle is made from high-quality, natural wax without artificial stabilizers. It’s a charming quirk of handcrafted candles and a sign that your candle is closer to nature.
How to Minimize Wet Spots
While wet spots can’t always be avoided, there are a few tricks to reduce their likelihood:
1. Store candles in a stable environment: Keep your candles away from direct sunlight, heaters, or drafty windows.
2. Allow for gradual cooling: Candle makers often allow candles to cool slowly after pouring to reduce rapid temperature changes.
3. Choose natural candles with care: A little imperfection like a wet spot is a small price to pay for a cleaner-burning, eco-friendly product.
At LEWA, we embrace the small, unique characteristics of each candle we pour, from subtle scent variations to those occasional wet spots. These quirks are reminders of the care and craftsmanship that go into every product we make.
So, the next time you notice a wet spot, take a moment to appreciate the story behind your candle.
Stay warm and light your space with love this winter!
*Do you have any other candle curiosities you’d like us to explore? Let us know in the comments below!