Introduction
Candles have a special place in our daily routines. Whether it’s setting the mood for a quiet evening, adding a soft glow to your dinner table, or filling the room with your favorite scent, candles bring warmth, comfort, and character to any space. They’re more than just decorative —they’re a simple way to turn a house into a home.
From a relaxing bubble bath to an intimate dinner or even a quick five-minute meditation, candles help create an atmosphere that soothes the senses. But not all candles are created equal. If you love the ambiance candles provide but are looking for a more affordable and eco-conscious option, votives candles and candle refills might be exactly what you need.
These small but mighty alternatives offer the same calming glow and rich fragrances — without the extra waste or cost. Looking for candles that last longer, cost less, and waste less? Let’s dive into why votives and refills are smart additions to your home.
What Are Votives Candles?
Votives candles are small, elegant candles that are typically about 2 inches tall and designed to be burned inside a votive holder. Unlike tealights, which come in metal or plastic cups, votives are freestanding and meant to melt completely into their container while burning — making the holder part of the experience.
These candles are incredibly versatile. You’ll often find them:
- Glowing softly in bathrooms for a spa-like experience
- Casting romantic light on dinner tables
- Welcoming guests in entryways
- Adding charm to special events like weddings and holiday parties
Their compact size makes them easy to place in almost any space — from bookshelves and countertops to nightstands and even outdoor lanterns.
Despite their size, votives offer a surprisingly long burn time, typically 10 to 15 hours, depending on the quality and wax type. They also tend to have a strong scent throw, meaning they can effectively fill a room with fragrance without being overpowering.
Many candle lovers keep a collection of votive holders that they can rotate with different seasonal or mood-inspired candles. Think frosted glass for winter, bright colors for summer, or rustic wood for fall.
Tip: Try using multiple votives together in a cluster for a layered lighting effect that feels cozy and intentional.
Explore our handcrafted Votives Candles collection to find the perfect scent for every room in your home.
What Are Candle Refills?
Candle refills are exactly what they sound like pre-poured wax designed to fit inside your favorite reusable candle jars or containers. Instead of throwing away a perfectly good glass jar once your candle burns out, you can simply drop in a refill and enjoy a brand new candle experience with less waste.
These refills offer several practical advantages:
- Eco-Friendly – Reduce waste by reusing your jars again and again
- Cost-Effective – Save money by purchasing just the wax instead of a new full candle.
- Convenient – Easily switch out scents whenever you like without the mess of melting and pouring.
If you’re all about low-waste living and smart shopping, our 12oz Refill Candle is the perfect solution crafted with care and ready to drop into your favorite candle jar.
Refills also encourage creativity. Mix seasonal scents throughout your home — a lavender refill for the bedroom, vanilla for the living room, and citrus for the kitchen. The possibilities are endless.
Why They are Worth Having at Home
So, what makes votives candles and candle refills truly worth it? Let’s break down the key reasons these smart candle options are must-haves for modern homes.
1. Flexibility
Votives fit effortlessly into nearly any room, from tiny bathrooms to spacious living rooms. They're great for:
- Creating ambiance for meditation or yoga
- Soft lighting for bedtime reading
- Adding warmth during dinner parties or family gatherings
Refill candles, on the other hand, are perfect for everyday use in your favorite large jars or containers. They offer consistent scent and glow while allowing you to reuse what you already own.
2. Sustainability
In a world where sustainability matters more than ever, refills help reduce glass waste and promote a reusable lifestyle. Instead of buying a new jar every time, just keep your favorites and rotate the wax. This simple switch can significantly cut down on your household waste over time.
Votives, too, minimize packaging and can be used in a variety of holders that you already own, making them an eco-smart choice.
3. Savings
Over time, candle refills are more budget-friendly than buying full candles. You’re essentially paying for the wax and fragrance — not the container. Likewise, votives offer a long burn in a compact form, giving you great value for your money.
Buy in bulk, store extras, and never worry about running out when guests drop by or you need a bit of calm.
4. Style
Mix and match different holders and jars to suit your mood or the season. Whether you’re going for rustic, modern, boho, or vintage vibes, the candle is just the beginning. You get to design the look and feel of your candle experience.
Add ribbons, twine, or decorative trays to create thoughtful displays that feel cozy and curated.
5. Always Prepared
Candles are great to have on hand — not just for ambiance, but also for emergencies like power outages. Keep a stash of votives and refills in a drawer or cupboard so you’re always prepared for the unexpected.
5. How to Use Them Together
Want the best of both worlds? Votives and candle refills complement each other perfectly.
Here’s how to combine them for maximum impact:
- Votives: Ideal for short-term use, like winding down before bed or enhancing a dinner setting.
- Refills: Great for long-term burn sessions — think movie marathons, weekend relaxation, or reading nooks.
Rotate refill scents with your mood or season:
- Fresh citrus in summer
- Spiced apple or pumpkin in fall
- Pine or peppermint in winter
- Floral or linen in spring
Pair different holders and jars with your décor and create a rotating collection that never gets boring. This mix gives you full control over your scent journey, your style, and your environmental footprint.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to enjoying candles at home, votive candles and candle refills truly offer the best of both worlds — style, scent, and sustainability.
They’re practical, beautiful, and budget-conscious choices that elevate your home without contributing to excess waste. Whether you're lighting up a cozy corner or setting the scene for a gathering, these options give you the flexibility to create moments that feel warm, personal, and meaningful.
If you’re ready to upgrade your candle game with less waste and more charm, try our Votives Candles and Candle Refills today. Your home and the planet will thank you.
Ready to upgrade your candle game? Try our Votives Candles and Candle Refills today!