Is it safe to put dried flowers in candles?

Candles and dried flowers: a recipe for disaster or not? Discover whether adding dried flowers to candles is safe in this handy guide.

A gorgeous candle creates the perfect ambience and atmosphere in any room. And not to mention the beautiful scent and decorative appeal.

Candles and dried flowers have a lot in common. They’re beautiful to look at, can level up any interior and enable you to create the perfect ambience in a room.

But can you combine these two amazing things without burning your house down or causing harm to people nearby?

Let’s explore.

Can I put dried flowers in candles?

The good news is that you can combine candles and dried flowers. But they do come with an element of risk.

If you’re making your own, position the flowers carefully and most importantly, never leave the candle unattended.

You can add most dried flowers to your wax, and this can suit your preferences. But some of the best-dried flowers for candles include:

• Pressed lavender buds
• Pressed rosemary
• Rose
• Calendula
• Sage
• Dandelion
• Crumbled mint

Gorgeous, dried flowers can make beautiful patterns and colour combinations when they're carefully selected. So, get creative and customise it to your taste.

If positioned correctly, they offer a unique and chic way to get more life out of your flowers long after they’re cut. Whether you’re preserving your wedding flowers, a gift from a loved one, or want to recycle your flowers instead of throwing them away, a dried flower candle is a fantastic option.

But, before you take on this interior task, there are some things you should know to ensure only using the safest methods.

1. You must make sure the flowers are completely dry before adding them. If the flowers are slightly damp, they could cause a fire and be dangerous.
   
   
   
2. Use a small number of dried flowers in every candle. You don’t want to block the wick or cause any fire hazards.
   
   
   
3. Put the candle in a spacious and well-ventilated area of your home when it’s lit.
   
   
   
4. Don’t leave the candle unattended while it’s burning (just like any other candle).

Why candles and dried flowers are the perfect way to light up a room

Candles are one of the most popular décor elements in homes and many businesses, like spas and restaurants. They are inexpensive, look good through all seasons, and create a warm and relaxing atmosphere.

Much like dried flowers, candles add a homely touch to any room and are incredibly versatile. Candles and dried flowers both brighten up any room.

How to use dried flowers in candles

When dried flowers are added to candles safely, they look fabulous. It’s a simple and effective way to decorate plain candles and bring nature indoors.

Making candles at home is a fun activity to keep you busy and enjoy the beauty of flowers all year round.

Here’s how to make your own dried flower candle safely at home:

1. First, start by measuring out and melting the wax on your stove. You can do this in a saucepan or with a jug or bowl in a saucepan of shallow water.
   
   It's best to melt the wax slowly and at a low temperature to prevent the heat of the liquid from damaging the petals.
   
   
   
2. Secure the candle wick to the bottom of your container using glue or a hot glue gun.
   
   The larger the container, the better, as wider containers have more room between the dried flower and the wick.
   
   
   
3. Pour the wave into your container, using a ladle to keep things clean and easy.
   
   
   
4. Sprinkle in the dried flowers or press them onto the side of the container before adding the wax. You can also pour the wax in layers to layer the flowers.
   
   If you put dried flowers in throughout the wax, break up the flowers or herbs into small pieces and don’t overdo it with the petals. Large petals are more likely to be a fire hazard.
   
   When placing your flowers into your container, keep them away from the centre of the wick so that the flowers don’t meet the flame.

Another great alternative to candles is dried flower wax melts. The options are endless.

Find the best-dried flowers for candles

If we’ve inspired you to buy a bunch of beautiful, dried flowers or make a dried flower candle, you’re in the right place.

The Last Bunch make stunning handmade arrangements with all-natural stems, meaning no two bouquets are the same. Visit our online shop to see for yourself.

And for more dried-bloom content, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.