Candle toppers can be an effective way to enhance the look and fragrance of a candle. Here are quick answers to some common questions about candle toppers:
What are candle toppers?
Candle toppers are decorative items placed on top of a burning candle to serve aesthetic or functional purposes. Common types of candle toppers include:
- Wax melts – These are small pieces of scented wax that melt from the heat of the candle below and release fragrance.
- Dried flowers or herbs – These can add visual interest and complementary scents.
- Glass or ceramic charms – Decorative beads, gems or shapes for aesthetic appeal.
- Essential oil diffusers – These allow essential oils to diffuse into the air.
Do candle toppers enhance fragrance?
Yes, some types of candle toppers can enhance the fragrance of a candle. Wax melts are designed specifically for this purpose. As the melted wax pools on top of the candle, it warms scented oils that are then released into the air. Dried flowers, herbs, and essential oil diffusers also provide supplemental fragrance from the heat of the candle.
How do you use a candle topper?
Using a candle topper is easy:
- Trim wick of unlit candle to 1⁄4 inch length.
- Light candle and let melt pool form.
- Place topper item gently on top of melted wax.
- Let candle and topper interact, releasing scent and ambiance.
- Never leave a burning candle unattended.
It’s best not to place candle toppers directly on the wick or flame itself. Allow the candle to melt slightly first before topping.
What kinds of candle toppers are popular?
Some top styles of candle toppers include:
- Wax melts: Popular for their scented oils and ease of use.
- Floral: Dried flowers and herbs like lavender, rose and jasmine.
- Ceramic charms: Hearts, moons, geometric shapes.
- Glass beads: Colorful accents like gems or sea glass.
- Essential oil reeds: Dotted with oils for aromatic diffusion.
Mixing and matching styles is common too. Many people enjoy layering wax melts with decorative charms or beads for added visual flair.
Do candle toppers work with all candle types and sizes?
Candle toppers can work with most standard candles like jars, pillars, tapers and votives. Just be sure the candle burns evenly and has at least a 1-2 inch melt pool size so toppers have a stable base. Giant pillar candles or very small tea lights may not accommodate toppers well.
Most toppers work best with a candle diameter of 3 inches or more. Tea light candles can still be topped using items sized proportionally like mini wax melts or tiny charms. Floating candle toppers that sit atop melted wax pools are also universal.
Are there safety precautions for candle toppers?
Take these basic safety steps when using candle toppers:
- Read manufacturer instructions.
- Never leave a burning candle unattended.
- Keep wicks trimmed to 1⁄4 inch before lighting.
- Don’t place combustible items too close to flames.
- Avoid topping with flammable solids directly on wick/flame.
- Don’t top a hot candle or before allowing melt pool to form.
- Keep toppers secured in melted wax, not precariously perched.
Most reputable topper brands test products for safety. But general precautions apply when combining open flames with supplemental items.
Can you reuse candle toppers?
Many candle toppers are reusable, especially if carefully removed from the melted wax. Wax melts may lose fragrance intensity over multiple burns but often still add scent. Test old wax melts first before topping a fresh candle.
Some ceramic or glass charms can be cleaned of wax and topped again and again. Dried botanicals lose visual appeal and scent quickly so are more single use. Metal charms or beads often maintain appeal for repeated use. Evaluate the condition of the topper after use for signs of damage or diminished performance.
Do candle toppers last the full burn?
How long a candle topper lasts varies:
- Wax melts fully liquefy, providing 1-5 hours of scent.
- Dried flowers/herbs burn up more quickly, 30-60 minutes.
- Glass/ceramic charms can last the full candle burn.
- Essential oil diffusers last 4-8 hours normally.
Factor in wick length, melt pool depth, candle diameter and flame intensity too. Frequent extinguishing and re-lighting accelerates topper deterioration. For longest duration, use an appropriate topper for the candle size and allow sustained burns.
Conclusion
Candle toppers offer creative possibilities to enhance candle ambiance, décor and fragrance. Consider the candle and topper styles when designing for maximum effect. Follow basic safety tips for best results. With the right pairing, candle toppers can work wonderfully to boost candle enjoyment and provide a more immersive sensory experience. Experiment with different looks and scents to discover your favorites.
