Understanding Candle Sweating: Causes, Effects and Solutions

If you’ve ever spotted tiny droplets on the surface of your candle, you’ve likely encountered what’s known as candle sweating. While it might initially raise concerns about quality, there’s no need to worry—this is a common and natural occurrence, especially with soy wax candles. 

Understanding the factors behind candle sweating and how to manage them can help you keep your candles looking their best. And remember, it’s not always a manufacturing issue—environmental changes and the natural characteristics of the wax often play a major role.

Let’s explore the reasons behind candle sweating, what it means for your candles, and how you can keep it under control.

What Is Candle Sweating?

Candle sweating refers to the appearance of small droplets on the surface of a candle. These droplets are typically fragrance oils or natural oils that have separated from the wax. This separation can occur due to various factors, and it’s important to understand that it’s a natural process, not indicative of a manufacturing defect.

Causes of Candle Sweating

Several factors can contribute to candle sweating:

1. Temperature Fluctuations: High temperatures can cause the wax to melt slightly, releasing the trapped fragrance oils. Sudden changes in temperature can also result in sweating .

2. High Fragrance Load: Candles with a high concentration of fragrance oil are more likely to sweat. At Still Room Perfumery we’re passionate about creating a strong, long-lasting scent experience. That’s why we use the highest quality, nose-friendly fragrance oils at the maximum recommended levels—so your space is filled with fragrance from corner to corner for as long as possible.

3.Type of Wax Used: Certain premium waxes—like soy wax, which we proudly use at Still Room Perfumery—tend to sweat more easily due to their lower melting points. While this is a natural characteristic of high-quality, natural waxes, it’s a small trade-off for a cleaner, more sustainable burn.

Effects on Candle Quality and Performance

While candle sweating can affect the appearance of a candle, making it look wet or oily, it doesn’t compromise the candle’s quality from Still Room Perfumery.

How to Prevent Candle Sweating

To minimize the risk of candle sweating, consider the following tips:

• Store Candles Properly: Keep your candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources to prevent temperature-induced sweating.

• Avoid Sudden Temperature Changes: Try to maintain a consistent temperature in the area where you store your candles. 

Addressing Candle Sweating

If you notice your candle starting to sweat, gently blot the surface with a paper towel to absorb any excess oil before lighting. This helps maintain its appearance—but if you prefer, you can simply leave it and burn as usual.