The Best Emergency Candles

When disaster strikes and the power goes out, having a reliable source of light is crucial. Whether it’s a hurricane, winter storm, earthquake, or just an unexpected blackout, emergency candles provide a simple yet effective way to provide light.

However, not all candles are created equal, especially in emergency situations. There are specific types of candles designed to burn longer, cleaner, and safer during a crisis. Before we get into the best options, first it’s important to know the difference between a regular and an emergency candle.

What is an Emergency Candle?

An emergency candle is a specially designed candle made to burn for extended periods, typically in survival or emergency scenarios. These candles are different from decorative or scented candles. Emergency candles are often made from high-quality wax, burn cleanly with little smoke, and are usually contained in a protective casing, making them safer to use in confined spaces or unpredictable conditions.

The best emergency candles offer:

Long burn time: Some can last over 100 hours.

Safe and non-toxic materials: They should burn cleanly without releasing harmful fumes.

Durability: Should withstand storage for long periods without melting or cracking.
Affordability: Emergency candles should be cost-effective considering their utility and burn time.

Compact and lightweight: They should be easy to store and carry.

Why You Need Emergency Candles

Emergency candles are invaluable during power outages, especially when batteries or electronic devices fail. Here are some reasons why you should include them in your emergency preparedness kit:

Dependability: Unlike flashlights or lanterns that require batteries that can deplete quickly or be difficult to find, candles don’t rely on electricity or replaceable power sources.

Extended Lighting: Many emergency candles are designed to burn for hours on end, providing a consistent light source for long periods. This can be crucial during lengthy outages when you’re waiting for power to return.

Heat Source: In addition to providing light, candles emit a small amount of heat, which can be useful in cold environments. Although they won’t warm a room, they can help provide a sense of comfort and, in some cases, slightly raise the temperature of a small area.

Cost-Effective: Compared to other light sources, emergency candles are relatively inexpensive, making them a practical addition to any emergency kit.

Safe for Indoor Use: Emergency candles are designed to burn cleanly and produce minimal smoke, so they’re safer to use indoors compared to regular candles.

Now that we’ve established the importance of emergency candles, let’s take a closer look at some of the best options on the market.

Top Emergency Candles

1. UCO 9-Hour Candles (for Candle Lanterns)

UCO is a well-known brand in the outdoor and emergency preparedness world, and their 9-hour candles are a top choice for emergencies. These candles are specifically designed to fit into UCO’s candle lanterns, which are compact and easy to carry. The candles themselves are made from high-quality paraffin wax, ensuring a clean, consistent burn.

Burn time: 9 hours per candle
Key features: Windproof when used in UCO candle lanterns, non-toxic, low smoke

Why it’s great: When used with a lantern, these candles offer both portability and protection from the elements, making them ideal for outdoor and indoor use during emergencies.

2. CandleLife Emergency 115-Hour Candle

CandleLife’s 115-hour emergency candles are an excellent option for those looking for a longer-lasting light source. These candles come in a tin container with a lid, making them safe for indoor use. They use liquid paraffin as a fuel source, which burns cleanly and without producing harmful fumes.

Burn time: 115 hours per candle
Key features: Long-lasting, safe for indoor use, and compact

Why it’s great: The extended burn time of 115 hours makes this candle a reliable source of light during prolonged emergencies, and the clean-burning paraffin ensures it’s safe to use indoors.

3. Ready Hour Emergency Candles

Ready Hour is another popular brand for emergency preparedness, offering candles specifically designed for survival situations. These candles are simple yet effective, providing up to 30 hours of light per candle. The candles come in a compact tin, which makes them easy to store and transport.

Burn time: 30 hours per candle
Key features: Lightweight, portable, non-toxic

Why it’s great: Ready Hour emergency candles are affordable and compact, making them a great option for bug-out bags or emergency kits that need to be lightweight.

4. SE Survivor Series 3-Wick 36-Hour Candle

The SE Survivor Series 3-wick candle is a versatile and long-lasting option. This candle features three wicks, which can be lit simultaneously for maximum brightness or one at a time for an extended burn. The tin canister makes it durable and easy to transport.

Burn time: 36 hours total (with one wick burning at a time)
Key features: Multiple wicks for adjustable light output, durable tin container

Why it’s great: The multiple wicks offer flexibility, allowing you to adjust the brightness and burn time as needed. This candle is perfect for both emergency use and outdoor activities like camping.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Emergency Candle

When selecting the best emergency candle for your needs, there are several factors to keep in mind:

Burn Time: One of the most important considerations is how long the candle will burn. Some candles are designed for shorter burns (8-10 hours), while others can last up to 115 hours or more. Consider how long you expect to need the candle and whether you need multiple candles to cover longer outages.

Safety: Look for candles made from non-toxic materials like soy wax or high-quality paraffin. These candles burn cleanly and produce minimal soot or smoke. Additionally, some candles come in protective tins or casings that reduce the risk of accidental fires.

Portability: For emergency situations where mobility is necessary, such as evacuations, smaller, lightweight candles in compact containers are ideal. Larger, bulkier candles are better suited for sheltering in place.

Durability: If you’re storing candles for long-term use, they need to withstand temperature fluctuations and not degrade over time. Look for candles with sturdy containers, such as those housed in metal tins, which protect the wax from melting or breaking.

Environmental Impact: Some candles, like those made from soy or beeswax, are more environmentally friendly than traditional paraffin candles. If eco-friendliness is a priority, opt for these sustainable materials.