Will My Soy Candle Melt in a Hot Car? Asking for a Friend
London hit 30°C this week.
People are melting. Ice cream is melting. Tempers are definitely melting.
But what about… soy candles?
If you left one of The Scent of Burnout’s luxury candle in your car, will you return to a wax puddle that smells like “Lavender & Cash” and regret?
Let’s talk wax science with a splash of corporate trauma.
🕯️ Soy Wax: Soft, Sensitive and Not Built for Heatwaves
Soy wax is the introvert of the wax world, natural, soft, eco-conscious and a little emotionally vulnerable. Unlike paraffin (the corporate yes-man of wax), soy has a lower melting point, around 49–54°C (120–130°F).
Now, before you scream “MY CANDLE IS DOOMED!”, here’s the truth:
🚗 The interior of a parked car in London at 30°C can reach up to 55–60°C in direct sunlight.
So yes, your soy candle can soften, sweat or even partially melt in those conditions. Especially if it's in a dark tin soaking up sun like it’s on annual leave.
💼 What Happens to a Candle Left in a Hot Car?
Sweating: That weird oily layer on top? It’s just your candle’s version of stress sweat
Softening: Wax can shift or slant, like your spine in that desk chair
Scent degradation: Heat can cause fragrance oils to fade. Yes, burnout literally smells less inspiring
Complete meltdown: Rare, but possible. Especially if parked for hours in full sun. It won’t explode, but you might when you see your passenger seat
🛡️ How to Protect Your Candle (and Your Car)
Don’t leave it in the car. Seriously. Take your candle with you like it’s a beloved pet or your company laptop
If you must, place it in the boot (cooler), wrap it in a cloth and avoid direct sun
Store at room temp: 20–25°C is candle heaven
Melty candle? Pop it in the fridge (NOT freezer) for 15–20 minutes to reset it
💬 Final Thoughts: Soy Wax Is a Lover, Not a Fighter
Soy candles are sensitive souls. They are here to help you unwind after a tough day in spreadsheets, not to survive a sauna-on-wheels situation.
