Do Candles Help In The Bathroom?
Candles have become an extremely popular decorative and functional accessory for bathrooms in recent years. According to General Wax, over 60% of consumers reported using candles in their bathrooms in 2020 (General Wax). The reasons for their popularity are varied – candles can provide soothing aromatherapy, create a relaxing ambience, mask odors, and add aesthetic appeal to the space. Smaller candles are now designed specifically for compact bathrooms, featuring clean-burning soy wax and beautiful vessels. With proper precautions, candles can be an elegant final touch to any bathroom’s decor.
Aromatherapy Benefits
One of the main reasons people use candles, especially scented candles, in the bathroom is for the aromatherapy benefits. Studies have shown that inhaling certain scents can have positive effects on mood, relaxation, and energy levels (source). When you light a scented candle, the heat releases the essential oils and fragrance molecules into the air. As you breathe these in, they trigger your limbic system, the part of the brain that controls emotions and memory. This can help induce a relaxed or energized state, depending on the scent.
Popular scents like lavender and vanilla are known to have calming and relaxing properties that can lower stress and anxiety levels. Other scents like citrus, peppermint, and eucalyptus can have an uplifting and energizing effect to improve mood and concentration (source). Using scented candles in the bathroom, especially while taking a warm bath or shower, enhances these aromatherapy benefits as the hot water helps diffuse the scent.
Incorporating scented candles into your bathroom routine can turn an everyday necessity like bathing into a soothing aromatherapy experience. Just taking some time to stop and breathe in the lovely scent of a lit candle can help shift your mood, lower stress, and promote relaxation.
Ambience and Mood Lighting
Candles can create a softer, more relaxing lighting environment in the bathroom. The warm glow of candlelight sets a calmer mood than harsh overhead lighting (1). This makes candles useful for creating a spa-like atmosphere for baths or showers. The ambience of candlelight can be particularly soothing at night when getting ready for bed.
Candles allow you to control the lighting based on your mood or activity. Brighter lighting may be preferred for tasks like shaving or makeup application. But for a long soak in the tub, dimmer candlelight creates a more serene environment. Flickering candle flames cast a romantic or cozy mood. Cooler white candles can provide crisp task lighting. And scented candles infuse the air with calming or energizing aromas (2). Overall, candles give you lighting flexibility to customize your bathroom’s ambience.
(1) https://blisslights.com/blogs/blisslights/shower-lighting-ideas-for-a-relaxing-time
Masking Odors
One of the main reasons people burn candles in the bathroom is to mask unpleasant odors. The fragrances from scented candles can help neutralize bad smells from going to the bathroom, mold or mildew, and more. Research shows that scented candles are effective at providing ambient odor elimination in bathrooms.
Lighting a scented candle in the bathroom can help freshen the air and provide a pleasant fragrance. Opt for candles with light, fresh scents like lemon, lavender, or vanilla to counteract bathroom odors. Be sure to pick the right size candle for your bathroom space as well. The scented candle will release fragrance into the air, helping to mask unwanted odors.
Safety Precautions
When using candles in the bathroom, it’s important to take proper safety precautions. The combination of open flames, water and flammable materials can create hazards if not used carefully.
Firstly, keep candles away from areas where water may splash onto them, such as near sinks or showers. Open flames and water can be an extremely dangerous mix. Be sure to place candles securely on a stable, non-flammable surface at least 3 feet from water sources (https://spokenflames.com/blogs/lifestyle/candles-for-bathroom).
Secondly, never leave burning candles unattended. Extinguish candles before leaving the bathroom to prevent fires. Also avoid moving candles once lit, as the hot wax can spill and cause burns or flammable materials to ignite.
Proper candle placement is crucial. Don’t put candles directly under cabinets, shelving or mirrors where flames could spread quickly. Keep wicks trimmed to 1⁄4 inch to prevent smoking and wild flames (https://www.quora.com/Are-candles-safe-in-bathrooms).
With some simple safety steps, candles can be safely enjoyed in the bathroom. But be sure to take precautions with open flames around water sources.
Moisture and Mold Concerns
High humidity can impact candles in bathrooms. The moisture in the air can cause dust and debris to accumulate on candle surfaces, which can potentially lead to mold growth according to this source. Wax melts from candles can also cause buildup on surfaces. Mold spores thrive in damp environments like bathrooms.
To prevent mold, it’s important to keep bathroom surfaces dry and clean. Wipe down candles frequently to remove any dust or wax buildup. Make sure to keep bathrooms well-ventilated. Consider using a dehumidifier or exhaust fan if moisture levels are high.
Scented candles may help counteract musty smells that can occur with excess moisture. However, lighting candles isn’t an effective way to eliminate existing mold or humidity issues. Proper bathroom ventilation and moisture control is key.
Aesthetic Appeal
Candles can add pleasing visual interest and a decorative touch to any bathroom (Home Decor Ideas, 2022). Incorporating candles into your bathroom’s decor is an easy way to coordinate with your overall style. For traditional or vintage bathrooms, classic white or ivory pillar candles complement the look. For modern and contemporary bathrooms, cylindrical candles in bold colors or geometric shapes make a statement. In rustic or farmhouse bathrooms, raw wood wick candles and apothecary jar styles fit right in. You can group candles on the corner of your bathtub, display them on floating shelves, or line them up on the bathroom counter. Mix and match heights, shapes and holders for an eclectic look. Whatever your bathroom’s aesthetic, candles lend ambience, warmth and style.
Brand and Scent Options
There are many excellent candle brands that offer a wide variety of scents perfect for the bathroom. Leading natural wax candle companies like Boy Smells and Otherland have sophisticated scents like Hinoki Fantôme with earthy cypress and black pepper, and Daydream with refreshing grapefruit and neroli (Source). Bath & Body Works is also a popular option with best-selling scents in sweet vanilla and relaxing lavender.
Natural soy, coconut, or beeswax candles provide a cleaner, more eco-friendly burn versus synthetic paraffin candles. However, paraffin wax candles from Yankee Candle, WoodWick, and Nest often have excellent scent throw and last longer. Ultimately the choice comes down to scent preferences and if you want an all-natural product. Focus on lighter citrus, floral, herbal or fresh scents that won’t overwhelm the senses in a small bathroom space (Source).
Alternatives to Candles
While candles can provide pleasant ambience, there are also some concerns around safety and moisture buildup. Fortunately, there are alternatives that can provide similar benefits without the drawbacks of traditional candles.
For combating odors, baking soda is an effective odor absorber that can be sprinkled in problem areas and vacuumed up later (Source 1). Essential oil diffusers are another option that distribute scent without an open flame. They come in electric and battery-powered versions (Source 3).
For mood lighting, string lights in clear vases create a warm glow, as do wine bottle lights and illuminated vases or bowls (Source 3). Table lamps and sconces provide directed task lighting. Flameless electric candles come in many styles that mimic the flicker of real candles (Source 1).
Overall, there are many candle-free options to consider that avoid safety risks and moisture buildup. With some creativity, alternatives can provide pleasant ambience and scent without the drawbacks of traditional candles.
Conclusion
In summary, candles can offer certain benefits in the bathroom if used safely and appropriately. On the plus side, candles can provide pleasing scents, create a relaxing ambience, mask odors, and add decorative flair. However, there are some potential downsides to keep in mind. Burning candles releases moisture into the air which can contribute to mold growth in humid bathroom environments. There are also safety concerns around having open flames near flammable materials and leaving candles unattended. With the right precautions, candles can be an enjoyable part of a bathroom’s décor and experience. Carefully read all candle labels for burning instructions and safety guidelines. Keep candles away from shower curtains, towels, and other flammables. Never leave a burning candle unattended. Opt for battery-operated flameless candles for increased safety. Consider safer alternatives like reed diffusers, essential oil room sprays, or automated air fresheners. If choosing to use real candles, do so sparingly and with ample safety measures in place.
