Will Microwaving A Candle Melt The Wax?

Microwaving candles has become a popular DIY hack for melting and softening candle wax. People are interested in this question because microwaving seems like an easy and convenient way to reuse old candles or fix issues like tunneling. However, there are definite safety risks to putting candles in the microwave that need to be considered. This article will explore whether it is possible to microwave candles, the potential dangers, proper techniques, and safer alternatives for melting candle wax.

Table of Contents

Can You Microwave Candles?

Microwaving candles is not recommended as it can be extremely dangerous. The main reason is that candle wax is highly flammable, so melting it in a microwave can easily lead to a fire if not done carefully [1]. The enclosed space of a microwave oven traps all the heat, allowing the wax to quickly reach its flash point temperature of 400°F-500°F. At this temperature, the wax vapors can ignite from just a small spark [2].

Additionally, microwave ovens heat unevenly so wax can get extremely hot in some spots while remaining solid in others. This makes it hard to control and very likely that you’ll end up with erupting wax and burnt spots. For these safety reasons, it’s not recommended to microwave candles.

What Happens When You Microwave a Candle?

When a candle is microwaved, the microwave’s electromagnetic radiation quickly heats up the wax. The wax can rapidly reach temperatures of over 150°F (65°C) inside the microwave.¹ As the wax heats up, it begins to melt from a solid to a liquid state. The melting point of most candle waxes is between 120-170°F (49-77°C).

Once the wax melts, it can start pooling and spreading out inside the microwave. Melted wax is very fluid and will drip and splash easily. As the candle continues to be microwaved, the wax can overflow its original container and make a mess inside the microwave.

If the wick is still in the candle, it may ignite once the wax gets hot enough. The flame can get quite large and hazardous. A burning candle in the microwave can produce a lot of thick smoke as well.

In addition to making a mess, microwaving a candle releases smelly vapors into the air. These can leave a lingering odor even after the microwave is cleaned.

Will the Wax Melt?

Yes, microwaving a candle will cause the wax to melt. When exposed to the high heat of a microwave, the wax will begin to soften and liquefy. According to Supplies for Candles, candle wax melts at temperatures between 120-170°F depending on the wax type, while microwaves can reach temperatures up to 300°F.

The microwave energy excites and heats up the wax molecules rapidly, transforming the solid wax into a molten liquid state. Both soy and paraffin candle waxes will melt when microwaved. The wax closest to the center or edges of the candle will absorb the microwaves first and melt quicker than other areas.

However, microwaving wax comes with some risks. If the wax gets too hot, over 180°F, it can scorch, discolor, or lose its fragrance. Uneven melting may also cause hot spots that can ignite the candle wick. Proper melting requires care and monitoring to avoid overheating.

Dangers and Safety Concerns

Microwaving candles can create serious fire and safety hazards that should not be ignored. The main risks include:

Fire – Heating wax to high temperatures very quickly can ignite the wax or surrounding materials. This can lead to dangerous fires.
Container explosion – Candle containers can expand, crack or explode when microwaved, sending hot wax flying.
Toxic fumes – Burning wax produces noxious fumes that should not be inhaled.
Irreparable damage – Wax can be almost impossible to remove if spilled or splattered in a microwave.
Injuries – Hot melted wax can cause burns and injuries if it spatters or spills out.
Sparks – Metal components in candles or wrappers can create sparks or arcing.

Never microwave a candle unless you are certain it is specifically designed for microwave use. It is simply not worth the risk of fire, damage or injury. Always check labels carefully before attempting to microwave anything.

Alternatives to Microwaving

While microwaving seems like an easy way to melt candle wax, there are much safer methods that won’t risk a dangerous wax explosion. Some better options include:

Double Boiler
One of the most common ways to melt wax is using a double boiler. This involves placing the wax in a heat-safe container set over a pot of simmering water. The steam gently heats the wax to a melting point without direct contact with the heat source. Make sure the bottom pot has an inch or two of water and keep it at a low simmer. Monitor the wax temperature with a thermometer and remove it from the heat once fully melted [1].

Slow Cooker
A slow cooker set on low provides indirect, gentle heat that melts wax slowly without scorching. Place wax in a glass or metal bowl that fits inside the slow cooker. Check frequently and stir until fully melted [2].

Heat Lamp
Position a desk lamp or heat lamp above the wax, keeping it 6-12 inches away to slowly melt the wax. Use a thermometer and adjust the height of the light as needed to maintain a low temperature. Stir periodically until melted.

These methods allow wax to melt gradually without sudden excess heat of a microwave. Take safety precautions and monitor the wax temperature to find the right alternative for your candle making needs.

Proper Way to Melt Candles

The safest and most effective way to melt candle wax is to use a double boiler. Here are step-by-step instructions:

Fill the bottom pot of a double boiler with 2-3 inches of water and place it on the stove on medium heat. You want the water to simmer, not boil rapidly.
Place the candle wax in the top pot of the double boiler. Be sure not to fill it more than halfway.
As the water simmers it will gently melt the wax in the top pot. Stir the wax occasionally as it melts.
Once the wax is completely melted, remove the top pot from the double boiler. Be very careful, as the wax will be extremely hot.
You can now pour the melted wax into containers or molds to make new candles. Let it slightly cool first so you don’t melt the containers.

The double boiler method allows you to melt wax slowly and evenly, which helps retain its quality. Microwaving wax can overheat it, altering its chemical properties (source). Take precautions when handling hot wax to avoid burns.

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about microwaving candles:

Is it safe to microwave a candle?

No, it is not recommended to microwave candles. The metal core or wick can create sparks or fire in the microwave. Microwaving candles can be dangerous and cause damage to the appliance. It is safer to use alternate methods to melt wax like a double boiler on the stove or a candle warmer (source).

What happens if you microwave a candle?

Microwaving a candle can cause the wax to smoke or even catch fire as the wick and other materials heat up. The metal core may also damage the interior of the microwave by reflecting the radiation. At best, the wax will slowly warm up but not adequately melt (source).

Can you melt wax in the microwave?

You can melt plain wax in the microwave but it is not recommended for candles. Candle wax contains materials like wicks and scent oils that can combust. Special care must be taken to melt only plain wax and at lower power for short intervals. There are safer ways to melt candle wax (source).

What is the best way to melt a candle?

The safest way to melt a candle is to use a double boiler on the stove. Add water to a pot, then place a glass or metal container with the wax in the water. Heat over medium until the wax melts. You can also use a special candle warmer appliance designed for melting (source). Do not microwave candles.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, microwaving candles is not recommended by candle makers or professionals (Suffolk Candles). While it is technically possible to melt wax in a microwave, doing so can be very dangerous due to the flammability of wax and potential for splattering, fires, and explosions (Quora). The heat distribution in a microwave is also not ideal for melting wax evenly. Instead, it’s much safer and more effective to use a double boiler, slow cooker, or candle warmer to melt candle wax. Only microwave wax in a pinch and with extreme caution. Overall, microwaving candles is not worth the risk of injury or damage.

References

Shukun, Y. et al. (2023). The microwave absorption performance of candle soots. Carbon, Vol 193, pp. 270-276.

Gray, K. (2022). Answer to “Why would placing a candle…”. Quora.

Your Crafts. (2020). Can you melt candle wax in the microwave? Your Crafts.