Learn how to store candles in a fun and functional way—from taper and pillar candles to jar candles and extras, all organized in one easy-to-carry caddy.
If you’ve got an expansive collection of candles, you’re not alone—and finding innovative candle storage solutions can be a challenge.
From jar candles and glass containers to taper candles, pillar candles, and more, organizing candles of all types for extended periods of time can feel overwhelming.
Today, I’m sharing a fun and functional candle organization idea that’s simple, stylish, and totally portable.
Because we all love candles, don’t we?
Candle Storage Made Easy
How a Rainy Day Sparked My Candle Storage Solution
All it took was one rainy Friday, a surprise delivery, and a hallway cabinet bursting at the seams with taper candles to finally push me over the edge. I had just received a fresh batch of jar candles from my friends at Antique Candle Company (thanks, FedEx!)—and with no more storage space to spare, I knew I needed a better system.
So off I went to the basement storage room, hunting for a vintage crate or basket that might work. Instead, I stumbled upon an old canvas gardening bag I’d totally forgotten about. And suddenly, it hit me—this might just be the best option yet.
Candle Organization for Expansive Collection of Candles
With plenty of pockets and compartments, this garden bag turned out to be the perfect solution for organizing candles of all types.
I tucked in pillar candles, tapers, jar candles, and even candle accessories like snuffers, lighters, and matches.
It’s compact enough to slide into a cabinet or closet—finding the right storage spot is no problem—and cute enough to leave out for its visual appeal.
Whether you like to stock up on seasonal selections or just want your go-to candles all in one place, this little caddy makes candle organization feel effortless—and, dare I say, fun!
Simple and Stylish Candle Storage Ideas
How about a candle storage caddy made out of a gardening tool bag?
I gathered all my mason jar candles and favorite tapered candles, along with all my candle accessories like safety matches, a wick trimmer, and a candle snuffer.
They all fit so nicely into my new “candle caddy.”
Pro Tip
You may find more inspiration in this 75+ Women’s Day Gift Vintage Blue and White Ideas post.
A Sentimental Candle Cabinet with Character
One of my favorite candle storage memories is this small, antique wooden apothecary cabinet that once belonged to my mother.
She used it to store all her half-burned candles—tapers, jars, and colorful odds and ends—and would leave a few drawers slightly open, turning it into a charming and unexpected decor piece.I still treasure it today, not just for its function but for the cozy, lived-in beauty it added to her home.
6 More Unique Candle Storage Ideas
Toolbox Turned Candle Kit
Use a vintage toolbox or tackle box to separate scents by season or type. It’s rustic, fun, and keeps everything in its place.
Drawer Dividers for the Win
Pop dividers into a deep drawer and line up tapers, tealights, and extras—easy to grab and out of sight when you’re not using them.
Under-Bed Storage Boxes
Store seasonal or overflow candles in flat bins under the bed—out of the way but easy to access when you’re ready to rotate scents.
Store Candles in Airtight Containers
Keep jar candles and pillar candles fresh for extended periods of time by storing them in clear airtight containers—great for closets or cabinets.
Use a Sturdy Basket with Handles
A large sturdy basket makes a beautiful catchall for candle jars, candle holders, and matches. It’s also easy to carry room-to-room or outside for summer nights.
Turn a Dresser Drawer into a Candle Station
Use shallow drawers with dividers to store candle holders, tap candles, and extra candles by color, scent, or use.
Where should candles be stored?
To keep your candles in the best condition, store your new candle caddy in a dark, cool place away from direct sunlight or heat sources, which can cause them to warp or fade.
A consistent temperature of the room helps preserve their shape and scent, especially if you have a large candle collection.
Wrapping delicate candles in tissue paper can prevent scratches or scuffs, particularly for tapers and decorative finishes. Keep in mind that candles do have a shorter shelf life if exposed to fluctuating conditions—so proper storage goes a long way!
And if you use a candle caddy like this one, you can move your candles around these locations very easily.
Do candles break down while in storage?
Yes, candles can break down over time if they aren’t stored properly.
Knowing how to store candles is key to keeping them in perfect condition, especially if you plan to hold onto them for a long period of time.
To preserve the scent of your candles and maintain the performance of the candle, it’s best to store them in their original packaging, in a dry place with low humidity.
Different types of candles may age differently, but storing them in a cool, stable environment will help ensure the longest shelf life possible.
What should I do with unused candles?
One of the best ways to enjoy unused candles is to actually light candles regularly—even just for a quiet evening or to elevate everyday moments.
You can set aside certain types of candles like tea lights or those in ceramic candle jars for special occasions or to create a welcoming touch in a guest room.
If you have candles in open glass jars, consider covering them or storing them properly to preserve their scent.
And remember—candles aren’t meant to be saved forever, so go ahead and enjoy them!
How do you keep taper candles from sticking together?
To keep tapered candles from sticking together, wrap each one individually in tissue paper or aluminum foil or store them with a bit of space between them in a cool, dry place.
Avoid high heat or direct sunlight, which can soften the wax and cause them to fuse.
A divided storage box or upright holder works great for keeping them neat and separate.
And if you are using this candle storage caddy idea, I recommend that all the bags have individual pockets to spread out all your favorite tapers.
Pro Tip
You may also enjoy this Icy Palmer Co. Summer Scented Vermont Candles post. A favorite local Vermont artisan.
I hope you enjoyed this simple at-home candle storage idea; I know I am!
Do you have any creative candle storage ideas you’d like to share? Let me know in the comments below.
Pro Tip
Shop my favorite Kanda Candles and save 15% Off!
Your Guide to an Eclectic Style~
If you have any thoughts, comments, or suggestions, I’d love to hear from you. Please share in the comments below. And be sure to share this blog post link with your friends who are also vintage enthusiasts.
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I have so many candles and am always looking for more storage for them. Thanks for the great idea.
Such a great idea Ann! I love it! Love the caddy storage idea and love how your mom used to store her tappers.
Thanks Kristin🙏🏻