Best Practices for Storing Candles in Hot Climates

1. **Melting Point Issues**
– Most candles are made from waxes with relatively low melting points, such as soy wax (120°F-130°F), paraffin wax (around 115°F), or beeswax (144°F-147°F). Exposure to high temperatures can cause candles to soften or lose their shape.

2. **Fragrance Loss**
– Heat can accelerate the evaporation of fragrance oils, reducing the scent throw of the candle.

3. **Discoloration and Bleeding**
– Prolonged exposure to heat and sunlight may cause dyes to fade or bleed into the wax.

4. **Warping and Cracking**
– Rapid temperature changes can cause candles to warp or develop cracks, compromising their appearance and usability.

#### **1. Choose the Right Storage Location**
– **Cool and Dark Spaces**
– Store candles in a temperature-controlled environment, such as a closet, pantry, or drawer, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
– **Avoid Hot Spots**
– Keep candles away from areas prone to heat, such as windowsills, attics, or near appliances like ovens and stoves.
– **Humidity Control**
– Choose a dry location, as excessive humidity can degrade the wax and wicks over time.

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#### **2. Use Protective Packaging**
– **Original Packaging**
– Store candles in their original packaging to shield them from dust, sunlight, and moisture.
– **Heat-Resistant Containers**
– If possible, place candles in heat-resistant containers or insulated boxes for added protection.
– **Wrap Individually**
– Wrap candles in tissue paper or bubble wrap to prevent scratches, dents, or sticking, especially if they are unscented or plain.

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#### **3. Avoid Direct Sunlight**
– **Impact of UV Rays**
– Sunlight can fade dyes, warp wax, and weaken the fragrance.
– **Solution**
– Store candles in opaque or UV-resistant containers to block sunlight, or keep them in a completely dark space.

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#### **4. Refrigeration for Extreme Heat**
– **Short-Term Storage**
– In extremely hot climates, candles can be stored in a refrigerator for short periods. This method works well for long tapers or pillar candles.
– **Precautions**
– Wrap candles in airtight bags before refrigeration to prevent them from absorbing odors or moisture. Avoid sudden transitions from cold to hot environments, as this can cause condensation or cracking.

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#### **5. Separate Scented and Unscented Candles**
– **Prevent Scent Contamination**
– Scented candles can transfer their fragrance to unscented candles if stored together. Use airtight containers to separate them and maintain their original aromas.

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#### **6. Monitor Temperature and Humidity**
– **Use a Hygrometer**
– Invest in a thermometer and hygrometer to monitor storage conditions. Ideal storage temperatures are below 77°F (25°C), with humidity levels between 30%-50%.
– **Air Conditioning or Dehumidifiers**
– Use air conditioning or a dehumidifier to maintain consistent storage conditions in hotter regions.

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#### **7. Position Candles Correctly**
– **Flat Storage**
– Store pillar and taper candles flat to prevent warping. Ensure they are not stacked or placed under heavy items.
– **Vertical Storage for Containers**
– Container candles should be stored upright to avoid wax slippage or damage to the wicks.

#### **Bulk Storage Tips**
– Store inventory in climate-controlled storage units or warehouses.
– Rotate stock regularly to prevent long-term exposure to suboptimal conditions.

#### **Shipping in Hot Climates**
– Use insulated packaging with ice packs for shipping candles during summer or to hot regions.
– Choose expedited shipping options to minimize transit time.

#### **Customer Education**
– Include care instructions with your products, advising customers on proper storage practices in warm climates.

1. **Soft or Warped Candles**
– If a candle softens or warps, move it to a cooler environment immediately. For minor warping, gently reshape the candle by hand once it’s at room temperature.

2. **Faded or Bleeding Colors**
– Fading is irreversible, but the candle is still safe to use. Prevent future damage by storing it in a darker location.

3. **Fragrance Loss**
– Re-melting and adding additional fragrance oil may restore scent throw in some cases, though results vary.

4. **Cracks**
– Small cracks can be smoothed using a heat gun or by gently warming the surface with a hairdryer.

1. **Use Heat-Resistant Wax**
– Choose waxes with higher melting points, such as beeswax or paraffin blends, for candles intended for use or sale in hot climates.

2. **Design with Durability in Mind**
– Create candles with thicker bases or reinforced shapes to withstand heat.

3. **Flameless Options**
– Promote flameless LED candles as an alternative for customers in extremely hot regions, providing ambiance without the risk of heat damage.