Are Bigger Candles Better?

Whether a candle is small or large, it brings warmth and light to any space. But when it comes to choosing between a bigger or smaller candle, there are some key differences to consider. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of large vs. small candles, from burn time and fragrance to decoration and safety. You’ll learn how to select the right candle size for any room, mood or purpose.

Bigger Candles Burn Longer

Larger candles contain substantially more wax than smaller candles, allowing the wick to absorb more fuel for a longer burn time. The additional wax in bigger candles provides a larger melting pool so the candle can burn down slower.

Statistics show that a large 3-wick candle in a 22oz glass jar can burn for 60-80 hours. Comparatively, a classic votive candle only contains about 1.5oz of wax and provides just 8-10 hours of burn time. Pillar candles also demonstrate the extended burn capability of larger sizes. A 3” x 6” pillar with two wicks burns for over 50 hours while a smaller 2” x 3” pillar lasts around 15-20 hours before the wax is used up.

This demonstrates how much more burn time a larger candle offers over smaller sizes. The extra wax in bigger candles allows the wick to access more fuel so it can burn slowly over many more hours. So if you want a candle that will last for days instead of hours, larger candles are the clear choice.

Bigger Candles are More Expensive

When comparing candle prices, it’s important to consider the total cost in relation to the number of hours of burn time. Smaller candles generally range from 4-8 ounces, medium candles are 9-14 ounces, and large candles are 15 ounces or more. On average, a small 4 ounce candle costs $5-10 while a large 22 ounce candle costs $20-30. At first glance, the larger candle seems significantly more expensive.

However, when you calculate the price per hour of burn time, larger candles become much more cost effective. Let’s compare a small 4 ounce candle that burns for 15 hours at $10 versus a large 22 ounce candle that burns for 90 hours at $30. The small candle costs $0.67 per hour while the large candle is only $0.33 per hour. You get over 5 times more burn time at half the hourly price with the larger candle. Rather than buying multiple small candles, a single large candle can provide ambience for days with a lower overall cost over time.

The size and longevity of larger candles make them a better value buy compared to smaller candles. While the upfront cost is higher, bigger candles provide more hours of fragrance and light for a lower cost per use. When evaluating candle prices, calculate the price per hour of burn time to find the best value.

Bigger Candles Have More Fragrance

When it comes to candle fragrance, size definitely matters. The amount of wax determines how much fragrance oil a candle can hold. More wax allows manufacturers to add more fragrance oil during the production process. This results in stronger scent throw from larger candles.

For example, a standard 4oz candle jar may contain around 1% fragrance oil by weight. But a big 3-wick pillar candle weighing 24oz could hold 3-4% fragrance oil. That’s 3-4 times more fragrance! All that extra oil means the large candle’s aroma will be more intense and distributed throughout a larger space.

So if you want a powerfully scented candle, bigger is usually better. The more wax, the more room for scent. Large candles unleash fuller, richer fragrance for your home. Just be sure to check the fragrance load percentage before purchasing, as some brands use less oil even in their big candles.

Small Candles for Small Spaces

Smaller candles work well for illuminating and scenting smaller rooms like bathrooms and bedrooms. The compact flame and fragrance throw is ideal for these intimate spaces where you don’t need or want an overpowering candle.

Be sure to keep fire safety in mind when burning candles in tight quarters like bathrooms. Never leave a lit candle unattended, keep it away from flammable materials like towels and curtains, and make sure to extinguish it completely before leaving the room.

For maximum safety, choose an enclosed candle like a votive or tealight in a small room. The glass enclosure contains the flame to prevent accidental fires. Battery-operated flameless candles are another safe option for small, confined areas.

Large Candles for Large Rooms

Bigger candles can be a great choice for large, open areas like great rooms, open floor plan living spaces, and big kitchens. The high ceilings and ample airflow in these wide open rooms allow for safe burning of larger candles. With more oxygen circulation, the candle flame is less likely to get “smokey” or produce excess soot like it might in a small enclosed space. The larger flame size also helps the candle fragrance spread effectively across a big room. Place a few pillar candles of varying heights on a kitchen island to create a striking and soothing glow during evening gatherings. Or arrange oversized jars and hurricane lamps on a mantel or console table to infuse an open concept living area with warming light and inviting aromas. The ample candlelight will make the spacious area feel more cozy and intimate. Just be sure to keep larger candles out of major walkways and seating areas so they aren’t a hazard or nuisance. Properly placed, bigger candles can beautify, brighten, and scent oversized living spaces in an eye-catching yet safe manner.

Creative Uses for Large Candles

Large candles lend themselves to creative and decorative displays that make a dramatic visual impact. Their generous size and presence allows for arranging multiples together to create an eye-catching focal point.

Try gathering several oversized candles of varying heights on a tray or clustering pillar candles of the same type together on a candlestand. The uniform look creates cohesion while the different heights provide visual interest.

For another creative arrangement, float large pillar or container candles in glass hurricanes or bowls of water. The candlelight reflects beautifully on the water while the floating candles become living sculptures that catch the eye. This works for both indoor and outdoor spaces. Just be sure to use unscented candles if floating outside to avoid attracting insects.

With their expansive presence, large candles make excellent focal points on their own, but grouping them together amps up the drama and impact. Take advantage of their generous size to create displays that attract attention and showcase these functional sculptures at their best.

Decorative Uses for Small Candles

Small candles can provide beautiful accent lighting and visual interest when placed in decorative holders and arrangements. Their petite size makes them ideal for displaying throughout the home in creative ways.

One way to utilize small candles is to put them in pretty candle holders, which elevate their appearance. Crystal, glass, ceramic and metal holders come in various shapes, colors and designs, complementing any décor. Place several votive or tealight candles in coordinating holders on bookshelves, console tables, mantlepieces, windowsills or elsewhere to add charming decorative touches.

Another decorative option is clustering multiple small candles together on trays, plates or candlestands. Arrange them in alternating heights, combine different styles of candles and holders, and incorporate other decorative objects to create artistic vignettes. For example, surround pillars or votives with dried flowers, pinecones, pebbles, shells or other elements from nature for organic, rustic designs. The options for small candle arrangements are endless.

With limitless possibilities for embellishing with charming accented lighting, small candles can transform any space into a beautiful, welcoming environment.

Safety Considerations

When burning any candle, it’s important to follow basic fire safety guidelines. This is especially true for larger candles, which require extra precautions.

For all candles, never leave them unattended. Blow them out when you leave a room or go to sleep. Place candles on a stable, heat resistant surface away from drapes, furniture, bedding and other flammable items. Keep them out of reach of children and pets.

With bigger candles, be sure to allow ample burn time. The candle wax needs to melt from top to bottom each time to prevent tunneling, which can cause the candle to collapse and start a fire. Always burn candles in containers that are non-flammable and large enough to collect all wax as it melts.

Pay attention to the recommended burn times for large candles, usually at least 2-4 hours per inch of diameter. Extinguish the flame if it reaches the edges before the wax is fully melted. Trim the wick to 1⁄4 inch before each lighting to prevent dangerous mushrooming of the flame. Allow the wax pool to fully harden before relighting.

In summary, while bigger candles have their aesthetic appeal, make sure to exercise caution and adhere to critical fire safety steps.

Summary

When considering whether bigger candles are better, there are a few key points to weigh.

Bigger candles have the advantage of burning longer, containing more fragrance, and making more of an impact in large spaces. Their main drawback is their higher cost. Smaller candles conversely have lower cost as their main advantage, along with being better suited for small spaces and creative/decorative uses.

Ultimately, the “right” candle size comes down to your specific needs and preferences. If you want candles mainly for ambience and fragrance in large rooms, bigger is likely better. But if you need many affordable candles for decor or want candles for small spaces, smaller sizes can be ideal.

Consider your budget, your room sizes, and how you plan to use the candles. This will help determine if going bigger or smaller makes the most sense for your particular situation.