5 Clever Candle Hacks

What to Do If Your Candle is Too Big for Your Candlestick

Most taper candles are too large to fit into standard candlesticks, so you’ll have to do a little work to ensure your candle fits securely. (Do not light the candle and melt wax into the base—this is messy and dangerous!) First, try placing the bottom of the candle under hot water; this softens the wax and allows it to mold to its new surroundings. If this doesn’t do the trick, whittle down the wax around the base of the candle with a paring knife, checking the fit as you go. Stop when you get it narrow enough to fit the holder. Apply wax adhesive (or some sticky tack) around the base of the candle, and place it in the candlestick.

What to Do If Your Candle is Too Small for Your Candlestick

If your candle is too skinny for your candlestick, wrap some aluminum foil around the base of it until you get a snug fit. Or, you can use a hair rubberband.

How to Store Candles

Looking for a container to store long, tapered candles in? The best one we’ve found are the tubes that Pringles potato crisps come in. It even has a lid! You can also use paper-towel tubes to protect them. Just wrap two candles at a time in tissue paper, then slip them into the cardboard tube. Keep tubes together with rubber bands if necessary.

Remove Candle Wax

Did you get candle wax on your candle holders, table, or even your carpet? Here’s how to get rid of candle wax on any kind of surface.

Instant Outdoor Candles

As long as you stay safe, candles are great for adding light and atmosphere to an outdoor party. To keep them from blowing out, just use a clear 2-liter bottle. Cut off the top and bottom, then place the middle portion over candles that you’re using outside. The plastic will act as a shield to keep wind away and the fire lit.

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