Taper candles can add a touch of elegance to any room, but the constant struggle to keep them from falling over or becoming crooked can be frustrating. If you love decorating with these candles but hate dealing with the instability, I tested a few popular hacks to solve the issue. After trying them all, I found one method that really works—and it’s the best solution for keeping your taper candles straight.
Aluminum Foil and Plastic Wrap
One popular hack is to use either aluminum foil or plastic wrap. This method involves cutting thin strips of these materials and wrapping them around the base of the taper candle before placing it in the holder. The strips are layered to fill any gaps between the candle and the holder, creating a more stable base.
My Thoughts:
Although this hack is simple, I wasn’t impressed with the results. While it did help reduce wobbling, the candles were still not completely stable. Additionally, the materials were visible, making it difficult to hide the strips and maintain a clean look. This hack can work in a pinch but is not the best long-term solution.
Elastic Hair Ties
Using small, clear elastic hair ties is another hack. The idea is to wrap the ties around the bottom of the candle to fill the gap between the candle and the holder. By stacking several ties, you can create a thicker support layer that should keep the candle steady.
My Thoughts:
This method was more discreet than the foil and plastic wrap option, but its success depends on the size of the gap between the candle and the holder. In my case, the gap was too large for the hair ties to provide enough stability, even when stacked. However, if your holder fits snugly, this hack might work for you.
Melted Wax
Another popular hack involves melting a small amount of wax from the candle itself. By heating the base of the candle with a lighter, the wax melts and is then dripped into the holder. When the candle is placed back in the holder, the wax hardens and secures the candle in place.
My Thoughts:
At first, this trick seemed promising. The candle stayed upright initially, but as soon as the table was bumped or the candle was moved, the wax cracked and the candle fell over. While it works temporarily, it’s not a reliable solution for keeping your candles secure over time.
Putty for Candlestick Stability
The final method I tried involved using putty, which is a more specialized solution. Moldable putties are available that are specifically designed to keep taper candles stable. The putty can be shaped to fit the base of the candle and holder, providing a sturdy and firm grip.
My Thoughts:
Out of all the methods I tested, this one worked the best. The putty not only kept my candles straight but also made them feel more secure in their holders. Unlike the other methods, the putty didn’t fail or crack with movement. I used an inexpensive putty designed for candles, but I believe any type of moldable putty would work just as effectively. It was easy to apply, discreet, and ensured my candles stayed standing without the risk of tipping over.
If you’re tired of dealing with crooked or falling taper candles, I highly recommend using moldable putty. While other hacks like foil, hair ties, and melted wax may offer temporary solutions, putty provides the most reliable, long-term fix. It’s affordable, easy to use, and keeps your candles looking neat and steady. Say goodbye to candle frustrations and enjoy a beautifully lit, stable display!
