Can Candles Expire?
By Dawn, Founder of Tenfire
You’ve found an old candle tucked at the back of a drawer—maybe one you were saving or simply forgot about. But now you’re wondering: is it still good? Can candles actually expire?
While candles don’t go “off” in the same way as food, they do change over time. Understanding how different waxes and fragrances behave can help you get the most from every candle—even the ones you’ve had for years.
TL;DR – Do Candles Expire?
- Candles don’t expire, but they can degrade in quality over time
- Natural waxes like soy are more sensitive to age than paraffin
- Scent may fade, and wax can crack, frost, or discolour after 1–2 years
- Proper storage helps preserve fragrance and burn performance
1. What Happens to Old Candles?
Over time, fragrance oils in candles can evaporate or break down, leaving the candle with little or no scent. Natural waxes like soy may also develop a frosty surface, cracks, or uneven colour—but this doesn’t make them unsafe to use.
The wick may also be affected. If it becomes brittle or absorbs moisture, it might not burn as well.
2. Shelf Life by Wax Type
- Soy Wax: Best used within 1–2 years. Scent and colour tend to fade fastest in this natural wax.
- Paraffin Wax: More stable and less prone to scent loss. Can last several years with proper storage.
- Beeswax: The longest-lasting wax—naturally antibacterial and stable. Can last indefinitely if stored well.
3. How to Store Candles Properly
- Store in a cool, dry place
- Keep them out of direct sunlight
- Lid your jars or keep them wrapped to protect scent
- Avoid temperature swings, which can cause cracking or sweating
4. Signs It’s Time to Say Goodbye
- No noticeable scent when cold or lit
- Waxy texture feels dry or crumbly
- Cracked or visibly damaged wick
- Wax has pulled away from the jar or turned discoloured
These signs don’t mean the candle is dangerous, but the experience may not be the same.
5. Can You Still Burn an “Expired” Candle?
Yes. An old candle might not smell as strong or burn as evenly, but it’s safe to light. If the wick is intact and the wax melts cleanly, you can still enjoy the flame—just with slightly lower expectations.
Final Thoughts from Dawn
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably held onto a candle because it was “too nice to use”—only to find it tucked away months (or years) later. While it might not smell quite as strong, that little flame can still offer a moment of calm. And that’s what candles are for, really—not perfection, but presence. Just light it, breathe, and enjoy the glow.
