12 Candle Types Everyone Should Know for Decorating and Gifting

Before you get started on your collection, here’s everything you need to know about the various types of candles, including pillar, taper, votives, and more.

Keep these candle types in mind the next time you use one to decorate or wrap one up as a gift. While some types of candles are best suited for setting a mood, others are ideal for use as centerpieces or in fireplace mantel displays. Before you get started on your collection, here’s everything you need to know about the various types of candles and how to choose the best ones.

01of 12

Pillar Candle

Various candles on holders displayed on a surface — Credit: Brie Goldman / Candles: Better Homes & Gardens Collection at Walmart

Pillar candles come in varying sizes but are characterized by their sturdy, wide design that usually allows them to stand on their own. They’re often used in hurricanes, in table centerpieces, as fireplace decorations, or simply scattered about to create a relaxing mood. The wax typically doesn’t drip as it burns, though pillar candles should still be placed on a heat-safe, flame-resistant surface. Pillar candles look beautiful when displayed in various sizes and benefit from long burn times thanks to their dense wax and size.

02of 12

Votive

White Wax Candle in glass on white background, — Credit: Getty Images / Maddy_Z

A votive is a small candle with a longer burn time than tea lights. They are traditionally used for prayer offerings but can also be used for decoration. They are short and thick in stature and are usually placed in glass jars to show off their flame while ensuring wax doesn’t spill over.

03of 12

Taper Candle

Two candles in holders with a drink in a glass nearby on a tray — Credit: Brie Goldman / Candles: Better Homes & Gardens Collection at Walmart

These elongated candlesticks are made for candelabras or taper candlestick holders. They cast a romantic, old-world glow over dinner tables or throughout a room in heat- and flame-resistant wall sconces. Taper candles come in a vast array of colors, sizes, shapes, and wax varieties.

04of 12

Tea Light

Tea lights or tea light candles come in small plastic or metal containers that allow the candle to melt completely while it burns. They’re an inexpensive way to add an abundance of flickering flames to a table or space but are safest when displayed within a larger, flame-safe vessel like a luminary or tea light holder.

05of 12

Flameless Candle

Two candles wrapped with string lights on a wooden tray near decor — Credit: Brie Goldman / Candles: Better Homes & Gardens Collection at Walmart

Flameless candles deliver the same ambience of a traditional candle but without the flame, making them ideal for homes where the safety of children and pets is a concern. They are also ideal for outdoor use as their artificial flames won’t burn out with a gust of wind. Flameless candles come in battery-powered and rechargeable varieties, and some also include a remote. Look for flameless candles that feature a flickering LED light and real wax for the most realistic appearance.

06of 12

Container Candle

A candle in a textured container beside three drinks on a wicker tray — Credit: Brie Goldman / Candles: Better Homes & Gardens Collection at Walmart

These types of candles come in a container that’s safe for burning. Whether you opt for scented, unscented, multi-wick, wood-wick, or even aromatherapy varieties, a container candle is an easy way to add ambiance to your space without requiring an additional candle holder. Even though the material will be flame-safe, it’s best always to monitor your candles and blow them out once you leave the room.

07of 12

Floating Candle

Floating candles are small, orb-shaped candles that are used in water in a dish or bowl. They make beautiful, minimalistic centerpieces for dinner tables and consoles. The only limit for these whimsical candles is your creativity. Just be sure to pay attention to safety by selecting a vessel that is water-tight and flame-safe.

08of 12

Multi-Wick Candle

A blue candle labeled Blue Fern Citrus with lemons and elegant glasses nearby — Credit: Brie Goldman / Candles: Better Homes & Gardens Collection at Walmart

If you’re looking for a soft glow, look no further than a multi-wick candle. They typically come as container candles, though large pillars sometimes come with multi-wick varieties as well. Low-lying multi-wick candles can serve as a centerpiece on a coffee table or even as a topper on a stack of books, evoking a sense of nostalgia and all the warm, cozy feelings.

09of 12

Wood-Wick Candle

Soy candle in a pink glass jar on a wooden surface with decorative items nearby — Credit: Brie Goldman / Candles: Better Homes & Gardens Collection at Walmart

A wood-wick candle can provide a flickering, crackling atmosphere. Incorporate them into quiet rooms where you can kick back and relax. Container or pillar candles are typically best for wood wicks, but also look out for multi-wick varieties for even more auditory appeal.

10of 12

Citronella Candle

Citronella candles are geared toward outdoor use where bugs are a concern. They work to repel mosquitos and other creepy crawlies that might be flying around once the sun sets. You can find citronella candles in a variety of sizes and shapes to suit your style and outdoor space.

11of 12

Paraffin Wax Candle

paraffin candle — Credit: Greg Scheidemann

Paraffin wax is used by both DIY candle makers and store-bought candle manufacturers. It’s one of the most popular candle types, offering the benefit of retaining and imparting more fragrance than other wax varieties while also retaining its color. One drawback often associated with paraffin is its use of synthetic fragrances and dyes to produce a cost-effective material. While paraffin wax candles may not be ideal for all homes, they can be an affordable way to create a soothing atmosphere in a study, bath, or bedroom, particularly when used in moderation or during entertaining.

12of 12

Beeswax Candle

wood dining table with white plates and bowls; white bowl of fresh mushrooms; candle; utensil crock and dried hydrangeas in white vase - Close up of mushrooms by flower and candles on table — Credit: Victoria Pearson

You can find beeswax candles in a variety of shapes and sizes. From pillars to tea lights, votives to tapers, beeswax candles can be a smart alternative to other wax types as beeswax is known to burn longer and is a safe alternative for allergy sufferers.

How to Choose a Candle Scent

Considering whether you want a scented, unscented, or aromatherapy candle should also be part of your decision. If you’re using your candles in a place where food will be served, it’s best to opt for unscented candles. They are also ideal for environments where allergies and other irritations are a concern.

Scented candles come in a wide variety of scents to suit your preferences. Aromatherapy candles, which often incorporate essential oils to create the fragrance, can be used to soothe the senses, whether you want to create a calming atmosphere, add an invigorating touch to a space, or promote relaxation.

While selecting the size and type of candle you’re using is essential, so too is the scent. Having a mix of scented, unscented, and aromatherapy candles on hand will help ensure you’re prepared for any situation in which a candle is needed.

Post Views: 95