Should I Reuse Birthday Candles?

Some candles like these are more expensive than plain, simple candles.

Reuse Candles

Wash off the bottoms of used candles in soapy water. Dry them and they're good to use again. Specialty candles like character (e.g., Spiderman) candles can be expensive, costing about $4 to $5 each; reusing them can save some money. Numbered candles can often be reused, such as for a child's second birthday and a parent's 42nd birthday.

Do Not Reuse

The burnt wicks of used candles do not look as nice as new candle wicks, especially if the candle's design is partially burned. If you have taken the time to decorate your cake or gone to the expense of buying a special cake, used candles may stick out like a sore thumb. In addition, the flame may not burn as high. Moreover, if you use a combination of used and new candles, they may not have a uniform look once lit.

Bottom Line

Wash and save your candles. If you want to use them later, they will be available and you won't regret throwing them out. Store washed, dried candles in one place, such as in a plastic container. Do not store in a hot place, such as near a heating source where the candles could melt and become misshapen.