Floating candles are candles which are designed to float in water. They are molded with oversized tops and small bottoms so that they will remain stable as they burn, rather than tipping, listing, or inverting themselves. Many candle stores sell floating candles, and they can also be ordered directly from candle manufacturers or made at home, by purchasing block wax, melting it, and pouring it into molds which are suitable for floating candles.
There are a number of uses for these decorative candles. At outdoor parties with pools, these candles can be scattered across the pool to create an interesting visual effect, and to alert guests to the presence of the water. A floating candle centerpiece can be used at the dinner table, with the candles suspended in a large dish of water, and floating candles can also be added to water features in the garden, large bowls outdoors and around the house, and any other environment where there is water.
One major advantage of these candles is that they carry few safety risks, as long as flammable materials are kept away from the sides of the water so that the candles do not accidentally set something alight if they drift against the edges. When the candles burn down, they eventually sink and extinguish themselves. When materials like flowers are floated along with the candles, these materials are usually too waterlogged to catch fire, making a floating candle arrangement reasonably safe when compared to ordinary displays of candles.
Many floating candles are very small, like tealight candles or small votive candles. It is also possible to purchase floating candle holders which can be used to display tealights or small tapers, along with other types of candles. One issue with these candles is that they can burn out within a few hours, so it is important to keep an eye on the display and refresh it as candles go out.
A variety of wax colors can be used for floating candles. White is classic, and very common, but for themed centerpieces or visual variation, dyed wax candles can be used, and it is also possible to find dipped candles which display a rainbow of colors as they burn down. Scented candles can also be utilized, although they are not recommended for pools or garden water features, since the oils used to create the scent will leach out and make a mess in the water.