I was recently asked about where to store candles and how many do I own? Not many. But here’s why I reduced the number of candles in my home.
Collection
There was a time when I owned an impressive collection of votives, tapers, scented jar candles, and candleholders. I even saved the jars after the candles burned out. Why? No idea. But this is what makes collections dangerous. We have no idea why, but we continue to buy the items. We are supposed to because we declared it a collection.
When I started organizing this collection, I realize they represented more work than enjoyment. I had to store them, and then reorder, replace, and refill them. When new boxes arrived, I threw away wasteful amounts of packaging. After they burned, I cleaned soot off candle holders and my furniture. And then I dusted the candle holders and then dusted around them. It was too much!
Migraines
In the midst of organizing, migraines entered the picture which meant even less enjoyment from candles. Strong scents trigger my headaches. I could not tolerate the fragrances and gave away several brand new candles. Even my husband asked, “Why keep things that make you sick?”
So, I reduced the volume to almost nothing. Then, I saved a few small candle holders for Halloween and Christmas. They were decorations I really loved. By limiting them to fall and winter, I minimized cleaning. Finally, I purchased a bag of unscented tealights so I could enjoy “hygge” moments during the winter.
At last, I felt a burden lifted. Spaces were cleared of unnecessary decorations. A cleaner house and less work were the results. Moreover, I can still host a lovely dinner party with a few simple tealights on a plate.
To Each Their Own
Do you have a collection of candles? Before making space for it, ask yourself these questions?
- Do you collect candles or burn them regularly?
- Are your candles buried in the storage closet or easily accessible?
- Do you have small children at home? Is this the right season for an open flame?
- Could you curate your collection and store it in the kitchen or dining room?
- Does burning candles support your values? They negatively affected my Health value.
When it comes to candles, I love this quote.
[bctt tweet=”If I had my life to live over again, I would have burnt the pink candle that was sculptured like a rose before it melted in storage. –Erma Bombeck.” username=”simplyenoughamy”]
Finally, if the collection overwhelms you, try these decluttering techniques.
Declutter
- Gift some to friends and family.
- Use up the inventory by burning them in the bathroom, kitchen or home office.
- Sell extras on Facebook Marketplace
- Give them away on a Buy Nothing Group
What collections do you keep?
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