Do Candles Expire? Here’s What You Should Know

Do Candles Expire? Here’s What You Should Know

Candles bring warmth, calm, and gorgeous fragrance into our homes—but if you’ve ever rediscovered an old candle at the back of a cupboard, you might wonder: Do candles expire?

The short answer is no, candles don’t really expire—but they can degrade over time. Here’s what to look out for:

1. Faded Fragrance

If your candle doesn’t smell as strong as it used to, it’s probably lost some of its fragrance oils. This is especially common in scented candles that have been exposed to heat, light, or air. Over time, the scent can fade, leaving you with a candle that burns but doesn't wow your senses.

2. Wax Discoloration

Natural waxes like soy, coconut, or beeswax may change color over time. You might notice yellowing, frosting, or a slight change in texture. This doesn’t mean the candle is unsafe, but it may not look as beautiful as it once did.

3. Burn Quality

Old candles can sometimes burn unevenly or crack on the surface. This is usually due to wax aging or environmental factors like humidity and temperature changes during storage.

How to Store Candles Properly

To keep your candles fresh and beautiful:

Store them in a cool, dark place

Keep the lids on to protect the fragrance

Avoid direct sunlight and heat

So… What’s the Shelf Life?

For best results, try to burn scented candles within 1–2 years of buying them. Unscented or purely decorative candles can last much longer without issue.

Final Tip:

If a candle doesn’t smell as strong anymore, it can still create ambiance. Use older candles for mood lighting, and save your freshest ones for when you want that powerful scent throw.