The Ultimate Guide to Candles: Do They Expire, How They’re Made & How They Work

Candles have been around for centuries, bringing warmth, ambience, and fragrance to our homes. But have you ever wondered if candles expire, how they’re made, or how they actually work? In this guide, we’re diving into the most commonly asked candle questions to help you understand and enjoy your candles even more.

Do Candles Expire?

The short answer is no, candles don’t technically expire, but their quality can degrade over time. Different types of wax have different lifespans:

🕯️ Soy Wax & Natural Waxes – Can last 1–2 years before losing scent strength. Natural ingredients may break down over time.

🕯️ Paraffin Wax – More stable and can last several years, but fragrance oils may still fade.

🕯️ Beeswax – Known for its longevity, beeswax candles can last indefinitely if stored properly.

How to Store Candles for Maximum Freshness

• Keep them in a cool, dark place to prevent melting and fading.

• Store in an airtight container to preserve fragrance.

• Avoid extreme temperatures, as heat can cause sweating, and cold can cause cracking.

How Are Candles Made?

The candle-making process has evolved over time, but the core components remain the same:

1. Choosing the Right Wax

The type of wax determines burn quality, scent throw, and eco-friendliness. At Norshire Company, we use 100% natural wax for a clean, long-lasting burn.

2. Adding Fragrance & Colour

Premium fragrance oils or essential oils are blended into melted wax, while dyes (if used) are added to create coloured candles.

3. Pouring & Setting

Once the wick is placed in the container, the wax is carefully poured and left to cure for 24–48 hours to ensure an even burn.

4. Trimming & Packaging

The wick is trimmed, and the candle is ready to be enjoyed!

How Do Candles Work?

When you light a candle, you start a fascinating chemical process. Here’s what happens:

🔥 Step 1: The wick absorbs melted wax, which is drawn up like a straw.

🔥 Step 2: The heat of the flame vaporises the wax, turning it into gas.

🔥 Step 3: The wax vapor reacts with oxygen, creating heat, light, and fragrance.

Why Do Some Candles Burn Unevenly?

• Not trimming the wick – Always trim to 5mm before lighting.

• Burning for too short a time – Allow the wax pool to reach the edges before extinguishing.

• Drafty environments – Keep candles away from open windows and fans.

Discover the Perfect Candle for You

Now that you know how candles work, why not explore our handmade collection? Our range of luxurious, hand-poured candles is designed to create the perfect ambience in your home.

📌 Shop now: www.norshireco.co.uk