Sweating candles explained: why it happens and how to fix it

You’ve just bought a new scented candle. You take the lid off, ready to fill your room with a beautiful aroma, but instead of smooth wax, you see strange, oily droplets on the surface.

It can be quite disheartening, can't it?

If you are wondering why you have sweating candles, rest assured, you are definitely not alone.

It looks almost as if the candle is perspiring, and in the candle-making world, that is exactly what we call it.

It isn’t a sign that your candle is broken or of poor quality.

In fact, it often happens to some of the most natural, high-quality waxes on the market.

But why does the wax look wet, and should you be worried about lighting it?

Let’s dive into the science behind the sweat and, more importantly, how to get your candle looking pristine again.

What exactly is candle sweating?

First things first, let’s clear up what we are looking at. Candle sweating refers to the visible beads or small pools of oil that appear on the top of the candle wax.

It can look like water, but if you touch it, you will realise it has an oily texture.

This "sweat" is actually the fragrance oil separating from the wax.

It usually happens when the candle has been exposed to temperature fluctuations, but it can also be down to the specific blend of wax used.

While it might look unsightly, especially if you are giving the candle as a gift, it is usually a superficial issue.

It rarely affects how the candle burns, but it can be messy if you aren't expecting it.

Why do candles sweat?

There isn't just one culprit when it comes to sweating candles.

It is usually a combination of chemistry and environment.

Here are the most common reasons your wax might be weeping.

1. Temperature changes

This is the most common cause. Candles are sensitive souls. If a candle is moved from a cold environment (like a delivery van) to a warm house, the wax expands.

As it expands, it can squeeze the fragrance oil out to the surface. Conversely, if it gets too cold, the wax contracts, which can also push oils out.

Note: This is purely a physical reaction to heat and cold, not a sign that the candle has "gone off."

2. The type of wax (Soy vs. Paraffin)

If you love natural products, you probably buy soy wax, coconut or beeswax candles.

 Interestingly, soy wax is much more prone to sweating than paraffin. Because soy is a natural material, its molecular structure changes more easily with temperature.

Paraffin is more rigid and holds onto oils tighter, whereas natural waxes are softer and more likely to let the oil seep out when the temperature shifts.

Suggestion: Read our post on Paraffin vs. Natural wax.

3. Fragrance overload

We all love a strong-smelling candle, but there is a limit to how much oil wax can hold.

This is called the fragrance load. If a candle maker adds too much essential oil or fragrance oil to the wax mixture, the wax simply cannot bond with all of it.

The excess oil has nowhere to go but up, resulting in sweating candles even before they have been lit.

Is it safe to burn a sweating candle?

The short answer is yes.

Seeing oil on the surface might make you nervous, but it generally does not pose a safety risk.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a clean burn.

How to fix and prevent sweating

If your candle is sweating, don't throw it away!

It is very easy to fix. Here is a simple step-by-step guide to restoring your candle to its former glory.

1. The tissue trick

This is the easiest way to fix a sweating candle before you light it.

• Take a clean, dry paper towel or tissue.

• Gently dab (do not rub) the surface of the candle.

• Soak up the beads of oil until the wax looks dry again.

Be careful not to dig into the wax or damage the wick. Once you have blotted up the excess oil, you are ready to light it.

2. Keep them cool (but not too cool)

Prevention is better than cure. Store your candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

• Avoid windowsills: Direct sun will heat the jar and cause sweating very quickly.

• Avoid radiators: Keeping candles near a heat source is a guaranteed way to separate the oils.

• Room temperature is best: Aim for a steady temperature of around 21°C (70°F).

3. Leave it alone

Sometimes, if the sweating is caused by a sudden temperature change (like bringing a package inside from the cold), you can just wait. Let the candle acclimatise to your room temperature for 24 hours. occasionally, the wax will reabsorb the oil on its own.

Comparison: Sweating vs. Wet spots

It is easy to confuse sweating with other candle quirks.

Finding droplets on your expensive new candle can be annoying, but remember that sweating candles are often a sign of natural ingredients like coconut or soy wax. It is a cosmetic issue, not a functional one.

By storing your candles away from fluctuating temperatures and direct sunlight, you can keep that surface smooth and dry.

And if you do spot a few beads of oil? Just a quick dab with a tissue is all it takes to get back to enjoying that relaxing glow.

Do you have a candle tip we missed? Leave a comment below and let us know how you care for your candle collection!