Votive Candles Vs Tealight Candles

Are you organizing a party for your friends and confused about which candles to select? Votive and tealight candles may appear similar at first glance, but each offers unique qualities that can enhance your gathering ways. Here is the guide for understanding the differences between votive and tealight candles—examining their sizes, burn times, versatility, and ideal uses.

What are Votive Candles?

Votive candles are small, cylindrical, 2 inches tall, and 1.5 inches in diameter. They are known for their versatility and are ideal for creating a cozy ambiance.

Common Uses

Votive candles are placed in glass holders to contain the melted wax as they burn. Also, these beautiful candles are used in centerpieces and mantels for religious ceremonies and decorative purposes in homes and events.

Sizes and Shapes

While the standard size is 2 inches, votive candles can come in various sizes and shapes, though they are predominantly cylindrical.

What are Tealight Candles?

Tealight candles are small, round candles covered in a plastic cup or thin metal. These candles are 0.5 inches tall and 1.5 inches in diameter. They are versatile and can be used for practical and ornamental intents.

Common Uses

Tealights are used in candle holders, lanterns, and oil burners. Besides, they are perfect for creating a subtle glow and are familiar in indoor and outdoor settings.

Sizes and Shapes

The standard tealight is small and round, but larger and more decorative options are available.

Materials and Composition

Votive candles are made from paraffin wax, soy wax, or beeswax. Each type of wax offers different benefits, such as longer burn times or eco-friendliness. Both votive candles and tealights are made from paraffin, soy, or beeswax.

The choice of wax affects the burn time and the candle’s environmental impact. Both votive and tealight candles usually have cotton wicks, but some may have wood wicks for a different burning experience.

Burning Time

On average, a votive candle burns for about 10 to 15 hours, depending on its size and the type of wax used. Tealight candles generally burn for about 4 to 6 hours. Larger tealights may burn longer, but are t typically shorter-lived than votive candles.

Scent and Fragrance Options

People commonly scent votive candles to fill a room with fragrance. Famous aromas include citrus, lavender, and vanilla. While tealights can be scented, they are often less potent than votive candles. People use them for subtle aromas rather than strong scents.

Environmental Impact

For a more eco-friendly option, use votive candles made from soy or beeswax. Additionally, these materials produce less soot and are biodegradable. Furthermore, look for tealights made from sustainable materials and those in recyclable or reusable cups.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between votive and tealight candles ultimately depends on your needs and preferences. Votive candles offer longer burn times and a more decorative look, while tealights are affordable, versatile, and perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere. Both types have their unique benefits and can enhance any space or occasion.

FAQs

Do votive candles need a holder?

Yes, votive candles need a holder to contain the melted wax as they burn. In addition, a proper holder ensures safety, contains melted wax, and supports the candle as it burns.

Are votive candles the same as tea lights?

No, votive candles are larger and require a holder to contain the melted wax, whereas tea lights are smaller and come in their own cup, eliminating the need for an additional holder.

What are votive candles used for?

People use votive candles for religious and spiritual practices, decoration, scented aromatherapy, and memorials.