What is the Difference Between Tapered, Votive, Container and Pillar Candles?

Candles are not only a source of light but also a significant element in home decor, events, and worship. With a wide variety of candle types available, each serves unique purposes and comes with distinct characteristics. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the differences between tapered, container, votive, and pillar candles. We'll also cover the types of wax commonly used for each candle type to give you a full understanding of what might best suit your needs.

Candle Types

Candles come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each designed to meet different needs and preferences. The primary candle types discussed here are tapered, container, votive, and pillar wax candles. By understanding their unique features and the types of wax used, you can select the ideal candle for your specific requirements.

Tapered Candles

Characteristics

Tapered candles are easily recognizable by their slim, elongated shape that narrows from the base to the tip. Typically ranging in height from 6 to 12 inches, these candles are designed to fit into specialized candle holders, often found in dining settings or as part of formal decor.

Uses

Tapered candles are favoured for their elegant appearance and are commonly used in:

• Dining Settings: Ideal for creating a refined ambiance at formal dinners.
• Events: Perfect for weddings, anniversaries, and other celebratory occasions.
• Decorative Purposes: Enhances the aesthetic appeal of any setting when used in candelabras or decorative holders.

Advantages

• Elegance: Adds a touch of sophistication to any occasion.
• Versatility: Suitable for both daily use and special events.
• Long Burn Time: Generally provides a long-lasting burn if maintained properly.

Disadvantages

• Requires a Holder: Needs a specific type of holder to stay upright and secure.
• Dripping: Can drip wax if not monitored, which may lead to messes on surfaces.

Types of Wax Used

• Paraffin Wax: Commonly used due to its affordability.
• Beeswax: Offers a natural, longer burn with a subtle honey scent.
• Soy Wax: A more eco-friendly option that burns cleanly and evenly.

Container Candles

Characteristics

Container candles are poured into a vessel, which can be made from glass, metal, ceramic, or other materials. The container holds the wax and often serves as part of the candle’s design, making it a functional and decorative piece.

Uses

Container candles are versatile and used in:

• Home Decor: Adds a cosy, inviting atmosphere to living rooms, bedrooms, and bathrooms.
• Gifts: Commonly given as gifts due to their appealing packaging and scents.
• Everyday Use: Ideal for creating a relaxing environment with minimal mess.

Advantages

• Convenience: No need for a separate candle holder.
• Clean Burning: Less wax spillage and mess.
• Variety: Available in numerous scents, colours, and designs.

Disadvantages

• Limited Shape: The candle’s shape is constrained by the container’s form.
• Burn Time: Although not necessarily a disadvantage, burn time can vary based on container size and wax type.

Types of Wax Used

• Paraffin Wax: Is widely used in container candles.
• Soy Wax: A popular eco-friendly choice that burns evenly and cleanly.
• Palm Wax: Known for its unique texture and eco-friendliness, though less common.

Votive Candles

Characteristics

Votive candles are small, cylindrical candles designed to fit into votive holders. They typically have a uniform diameter and are known for their ability to burn evenly.

Uses

Votive candles are often used in:

• Religious Settings: Common in churches and places of worship for their symbolic use.
• Decorative Displays: Ideal for creating ambiance in both small and large group settings.
• Special Occasions: Used in events like weddings and dinners for added charm.

Advantages

• Compact Size: Perfect for small spaces and tight arrangements.
• Versatility: Can be used in various holders and settings.
• Variety: Available in a range of scents and colours.

Disadvantages

• Holder Needed: Requires a votive holder to burn safely and effectively.
• Burn Time: Generally shorter than pillar candles, making them less ideal for prolonged use.

Types of Wax Used

• Paraffin Wax: Is commonly used in votive candles.
• Soy Wax: A popular alternative for its environmental benefits and clean, even burn.
• Gel Wax: Provides a unique look and is often used for decorative purposes.

Pillar Candles

Characteristics

Pillar candles are large, free-standing candles that can vary in height and diameter. They do not require a holder and are often used as focal points in decor. Pillar candles can burn for extended periods and are known for their substantial presence because of their size.

Uses

Pillar candles are used in:

• Home Decor: Ideal for adding a bold decorative element to any room.
• Centrepieces: Often used as central pieces in table settings and arrangements.
• Events: Suitable for large-scale events and ceremonies due to their prominence.

Advantages

• Standalone Use: Does not require a holder, making it versatile in placement.
• Long Burn Time: Typically lasts longer than other candle types, providing extended use.
• Decorative Impact: Adds a significant decorative element to any setting.

Disadvantages

• Melting Issues: Can create messy drips if not properly maintained.
• Space Requirement: Takes up more space compared to other candles and may require more careful placement.  Safety is paramount when using these candles.

Types of Wax Used

• Paraffin Wax: Common due to its cost-effectiveness.
• Beeswax: Offers a natural burn with a pleasant scent, though it can be more expensive.
• Soy Wax: Popular for its eco-friendly properties and clean, even burn.

Comparative Table

Candle Type	Shape	Holder Needed	Burn Time	Typical Use	Advantages	Disadvantages	Types of Wax Used
Tapered	Slender and tall	Yes	Long	Formal settings, dining	Elegant, versatile	Requires holder, can drip wax	Paraffin, Beeswax, Soy
Container	Various shapes	No	Variable	Home decor, everyday	Convenient, clean burning, aesthetic	Limited shape, variable burn time	Paraffin, Soy, Palm
Votive	Small and cylindrical	Yes	Short	Religious, decorative	Compact, versatile	Requires holder, short burn time	Paraffin, Soy, Gel
Pillar	Large and robust	No	Long	Home decor, centrepieces	Standalone, long burn time	Can drip wax, space requirement	Paraffin, Beeswax, Soy

Conclusion

Choosing the right type of candle involves understanding the specific characteristics, uses, and wax types of each. Whether you prefer the elegance of tapered candles, the convenience of container candles, the compactness of votive candles, or the bold presence of pillar candles, each type has its unique advantages and ideal applications. By considering these factors, you can enhance any space or occasion with the perfect candle.

Enjoy exploring the diverse world of candles and find the ones that best fit your needs!

What types of candles do you prefer.  Comment below