Scented candles are a great way to bring a sense of warmth, relaxation, and comfort into home. They can also be used to mask unpleasant odors, add some ambiance to a room, or just set mood for a gathering or romantic dinner. But it’s important to know how long an unused scented candle will last and how to store it properly for best results.

Most candles, regardless of whether they are scented or not, will last up to three years if stored correctly. The key to maintaining freshness and quality of candle is in storage. To store a candle properly, make sure container is tightly sealed and placed out of direct sunlight. This will help to protect wax and fragrance of candle. If candle is free-standing, make sure to place it in a box or sealed container.

The shelf life of a scented candle is determined by several factors including type of wax and scent used. Paraffin wax, which is commonly used to make candles, typically has a shelf life of two or three years. On other hand, soy wax candles may last longer and up to five years or more if properly stored. Additionally, candles with more complex scents may not last as long since scent can break down over time.

To help extend shelf life of your candle, make sure to keep it away from direct heat and sunlight, which can cause wax to melt and scent to dissipate. Also, be sure to use a lid or another form of covering to protect your candle from dust and dirt, which can also impact its shelf life.

If you haven’t used a candle in a while and it is already waxed, it is still safe to use. To determine age of candle, check its expiration date, if one is given. It is best practice to replace candle after three years if it has not been used.

In conclusion, unused scented candles typically last between two and three years if stored properly. The actual shelf life of a scented candle will depend on type of wax and scent used. To get most out of your candle, make sure to store it in a dark and cool place, keep it away from direct heat and sunlight, and use a lid to protect it from dust and dirt.