Explore Types of Candles : Best Uses, Benefits, and Styles

Candles can be of various types based on containers/ jars, waxes, wicks, usage. However, we tried to explain the most common types of candles used in our surroundings. These can be scented or non-scented. Lets explore various types of candles.

Tea Lights & Votives

Tealights are small metal crafted candles that you see in wedding, Diwali or other cultural events. These are small and more in quantity. As a result, you can arrange them in your desired manner to create the ambience to your needs. As they are small in size, they are great for smaller places.

Votives or prayer candles are usually fragrance free made of beeswax remains in a container, which lasts for around 10 hours once lit and used in various religious occasions/ places. Votive candles are also used as a decor tool to use throughout your home’s spaces. Their small size and subtle glow provide ambient lighting and make the environment cozy.

Sculpture Candles

Sculpture candles are unique and freestanding, much like pillar candles. They serve as an unexpected focal point or a design element in your space. These candles come in various shapes, including bodies, renaissance busts, and flowers. So, you can easily find one that complements your personal style. 🕯️✨

Pillar Candles

Pillar candles are made from a dense wax that allows them to stand on their own without having to be contained. The burn time depends on their height and width. When shopping, consider the candle’s purpose—whether it’s for decoration or providing light during a long event. Larger decorative pillar candles work well on holders or in vases near fireplaces or dining room sideboards. Use one or a grouping of pillars in lanterns, or as table centerpieces to add warmth and accent lighting around your home.

Taper Candles

Taper candles, characterized by their elongated, slender shape, usually needs holder and serve as an elegant addition to any table arrangement or mantelpiece decoration. Typically, a standard taper candle stands at 12 inches in height and offers approximately 12 hours of burning time, equating to about one hour per inch. These candles are celebrated for their extensive color range, and the diversity in both the wax composition and form. While traditionally crafted in a cylindrical base, they are also available in twisted and ribbed designs, enhancing their aesthetic appeal and distinctiveness.

Container (Jar/Vessel) Candles

Jar and container candles provide a lot of decorative options beyond traditional freestanding candles. A container candle is encased in a safe, non-flammable vessel, often crafted from glass or metal, and may include a lid. Offering a dual benefit of a candle and its holder, container candles are available in a range of sizes, may feature single or multiple wicks, and come in scented or unscented varieties, among other numerous variations.

Floating Candle

A floating candle is designed to be lightweight enough to float on water while it burns. As the area around the wick heats up, the surrounding water keeps the exterior cool, maintaining the candle’s buoyancy even as it burns and becomes lighter, causing it to rise above the water.

Floating candles can add a festive or romantic ambiance to any table setting, creating an atmosphere that feels more sophisticated and extraordinary. For a stunning centerpiece, arrange floating candles in a bowl or large vessel, complemented by flowers or petals, or for a striking display, place individual candles in smaller containers at various heights.

Flameless Candle

Ideal for ensuring safety, flameless candles offer an electronic substitute to traditional candles, eliminating concerns over safety risks, dripping wax, or smoke. Available in various shapes, sizes, and both scented and unscented options, they’re suitable for indoor and outdoor settings. Typically powered by batteries, many also feature a remote control, providing the cozy ambiance and soft light of candles without any fire risks.

Gel Candle

Gel candles emit nearly twice the light and last about twice as long as traditional wax candles. They are crafted from a blend of resin and mineral oil, which imparts their distinctive transparent appearance. The clear gel allows for the inclusion of decorative elements such as dried flowers, berries, or petals, enhancing their aesthetic appeal. Ideal for durable decoration and optimal lighting.

Sand Candle

A sand wax candle is crafted by pouring melted candle wax into a sand mold. The sand adheres to the wax, creating a textured surface reminiscent of beach sand. The result is a candle that not only emits a warm glow when lit but also adds a touch of coastal charm to any space. Whether you’re creating your own sand wax candle or purchasing one, the combination of natural wax and sandy texture makes it a delightful addition to your home decor. 

Birthday Candle

The most common type of candle seen on every occasion. Birthday candles, those essential toppers for cakes or cupcakes, epitomize the celebratory spirit. They’re a festive addition that no party should be without, available in an endless array of shapes, colors, and designs. Whether they’re solid or multicolored, glitter-dipped, simple, twisted, or sparkling, there’s a style for every celebration imaginable!