Are Pillar Candles Better Than Votive Candles?

When it comes to candles, there are two main types to consider – pillar candles and votive candles. Both have their advantages and disadvantages in terms of appearance, lighting, burn time, uses, safety, cost, availability, and maintenance. This article will provide an overview of pillar candles versus votive candles to help you determine which is better for your needs.

In general, pillar candles are taller and thicker, providing more wax and a longer burn time. They work well as standalone decorative pieces and can light up a whole room. Votive candles are smaller and meant to be used in groups, making them great for filling candles holders. They provide more concentrated light but have a shorter burn time. Understanding the differences will allow you to select the right candle type for your purposes.

Appearance

Pillar candles tend to be larger in both height and diameter compared to votive candles. Pillar candles are designed to stand upright on their own and come in heights ranging from 4 to 36 inches tall. Their diameters can range from 1.5 to 5 inches across. Pillar candles come in all colors, shapes like rounds, squares, hexagons, octagons, etc. They can be smooth, fluted, or molded into decorative shapes and designs (Types of Candles Guide – Shape, Size, Styles & More).

Votive candles are much smaller, typically around 1.5 to 3 inches tall and 1 to 2 inches in diameter. Their short stature means they cannot stand upright on their own. Votive candles are made to fit into small containers called votive holders. Votive candles mainly come in smooth round shapes and every color, but generally do not have elaborate decorative shapes like pillar candles (Six Different Types of Candles and What Makes Them Uniqu).

Lighting

Pillar candles tend to produce brighter, more intense light than votive candles due to their larger size and wax volume. The larger flame size and taller height of pillar candles allows their light to spread over a wider area. However, the intensity and coverage of pillar candles can vary depending on the exact height and diameter. Standard pillar candles are around 4-12 inches tall with diameters of 2-3 inches. The tallest pillar candles will provide the broadest light spread.

In contrast, votive candles are relatively small, with heights of 1-3 inches and diameters around 1.5 inches. This results in a more focused, localized light source. The small flame size produces a lower intensity, ambient glow ideal for accent lighting. However, multiple votive candles can be grouped together in holders to increase the coverage.

Pillar candles tend to flicker less than votives. The larger wax pool helps anchor the flame, while the taller height protects it from drafts. Votive candles flicker more noticeably due to their low profile and small wax pool. But some enjoy the natural flickering effect for the ambiance it creates. Glass votive holders can help minimize excessive flickering.

Overall, pillar candles are better for providing general illumination, while votives are ideal for accent lighting. The choice depends on the specific lighting needs and desired effect. But both can be used effectively to create atmosphere and ambiance.

Burn Time

Pillar candles typically have a longer burn time compared to votive candles. According to Slatkin & Co., the average burn time for a pillar candle is around 25-30 hours for a 3 inch diameter candle. In comparison, the average burn time for a votive candle is 15-20 hours. This longer burn time for pillar candles is due to their larger size and amount of wax. Votive candles are meant for shorter occasions whereas pillar candles can provide ambiance and fragrance for days.

However, the burn time can vary depending on factors like wax type, wick size, room temperature, and drafts. But in general, pillar candles will burn significantly longer than votives before needing to be replaced.

Uses

Pillar candles and votive candles each have their own advantages when it comes to uses. Pillar candles can provide focused lighting and ambiance for longer periods of time thanks to their larger wax pool and slower burn rate. Their elongated shape also allows pillar candles to be placed in candlesticks and candelabras. This makes pillar candles a popular choice for formal dinners, holiday centerpieces, and events where sustained illumination is desired (4 Types of Candles).

Votive candles are convenient to use in a variety of settings because they are small and portable. Their smaller size allows multiple votive candles to be grouped together in decorative holders to create ambient light for events, spas, or restaurants (Choosing a Candle). Votive candles must be placed in a holder, but their small size means they can be used in tabletop lanterns, wall sconces, candelabras, and a variety of container candle holders, increasing their versatility. However, votive candles provide illumination for shorter periods than pillar candles due to their smaller wax pool and faster burn rate.

Safety

When it comes to safety, both pillar and votive candles carry risks that need to be properly managed. As open flames, all candles pose a fire hazard if left unattended or placed near flammable materials (https://candles.org/fire-safety-candles/). Pillar candles tend to get hotter at their wide tops than votives, making them more prone to catching things on fire above them. Their hot wax also splatters more as it melts. Votives can still start fires if tipped over while lit. Both candle types should be kept on fire-safe holders and surfaces. Never leave any burning candle unattended, and keep them out of reach of children and pets.

To prevent overheating and fire, pillar candles should be burned for no more than 4 hours at a time, with wicks trimmed to 1⁄4 inch before lighting (https://goodlightcandles.com/pages/candle-care-tips). Votives that melt into their cups when burned for prolonged periods can also pose a hazard. Consider using votive candles for shorter durations, and pillars for longer ambiance. But monitor all candles continuously and extinguish them before going to sleep or leaving home.

Cost

Pillar candles typically cost more per hour of burn time compared to votive candles. According to sources, a 6-hour votive candle costs around $0.17 per hour while a 6-hour pillar candle costs around $0.33 per hour.¹ The wax and wicks in pillar candles are generally higher quality since they are designed to burn evenly for longer periods, leading to a higher initial cost.

However, this doesn’t mean pillar candles are always more expensive. You can find votive candles in premium glass containers that cost significantly more than basic pillar candles. But when comparing standard paraffin wax pillar candles to standard votive candles, the pillar candles usually have a higher upfront cost for the amount of burn time.

One way to lower the hourly cost of pillar candles is to purchase larger sizes that burn for longer hours. A 12-hour pillar may cost $0.25 per hour or less. So if cost is a main factor, opting for larger pillar candles can help lower the hourly rate.

Availability

Both pillar candles and votive candles are widely available at many brick-and-mortar and online stores. Here’s a quick overview of where you can find each type of candle:

Pillar candles can be purchased at grocery stores, big box stores, craft stores, candle specialty shops, and online retailers like Amazon. Since pillar candles are a common household item, they are easy to find at most stores that sell home goods and decor.

Votive candles can also be found at grocery stores, big box retailers, and craft stores. However, for the largest selection of votive candles, check out candle specialty stores or online retailers. Votive candles come in many sizes, shapes, colors, and scents, so specialty candle shops will have the best variety.

Both pillar and votive candles can be found year-round at most stores. Around major holidays like Christmas, Hanukkah, and Valentine’s Day, many retailers increase their candle inventory and variety. So the abundance and options for both pillar and votive candles tend to be best during the winter holiday season.

Maintenance

Pillar candles require more maintenance than votive candles when it comes to cleaning and storage. As the pillar candle burns down, melted wax can drip down the sides and collect on the candle holder or table underneath. To prevent messes, it’s recommended to put pillar candles in holders specifically designed to catch dripping wax (1). Votive candles are designed to liquefy as they burn so there is minimal dripping. The small glass votive holders catch most wax drips. After use, any remaining wax can be easily removed by placing the glass votive holders in the freezer for a few hours and then peeling off the wax.

For storage, pillar candles should be kept upright and away from heat sources to prevent warping or melting (2). Votive candles can be stored upright or sideways since they are encased in glass holders. Proper storage will help extend the shelf life for both pillar and votive candles. Overall, votive candles require less maintenance for cleaning and storage compared to pillar candles.

Summary

In summary, both pillar candles and votive candles have their pros and cons. Pillar candles are taller, provide more light, and have longer burn times. However, votive candles come in more sizes and shapes, are safer to use than pillars since their container catches melting wax, and are very affordable and easy to maintain.

Pillar candles may be best for events where large or long-lasting candles are needed, like weddings or dinner parties. Votive candles are ideal for small decorative accent lighting, devotional settings, or short ceremonies. Ultimately, the choice between pillar and votive comes down to your specific lighting needs and personal preferences.