A Kinder Way to Handle Candle Clutter
If you’ve ever opened a drawer and found a small army of candles—many unlit, many forgotten—you’re not alone. I meet so many lovely people who collect candles with the best intentions: gifts for friends, cozy moments at home, or “just in case” backups. And yet those pretty little jars can quickly pile up and take over our cabinets, closets, and gift shelves. If that sounds familiar, take a deep breath—you’re in good company, and there’s a gentle way forward.
The Questions That Bring Clarity
Recently, while chatting with a client, we found ourselves staring at an entire shelf of candles—some gifted, some bought, some still in packaging from years ago. Instead of feeling overwhelmed, we paused and asked a few simple, grounding questions. These little checks can help you decide what to keep, what to use, and what might serve someone else beautifully.
Thinking About Safety and Health
The first thing we looked at together was the ingredients. So many candles on the market today include artificial fragrances or other additives that may not be the healthiest for you or your family. If you’re unsure, it’s perfectly okay to pause before lighting anything and do a quick ingredient check. You deserve a home that feels safe, peaceful, and supportive—and sometimes that begins with something as tiny as a wick.
The second question we asked: Is this a safe place for a candle?
Many families I work with have young children, elders, or college students in dorms where open flames aren’t allowed. Even a small candle can be a risk in certain spaces. Thinking about where the candle will be used (or gifted) helps you decide what truly belongs in your home—and what might be better suited elsewhere.
When Candles Become Clutter You Didn’t Ask For
The third question is my favorite because it always brings a moment of honesty wrapped in kindness:
Are these candles actually getting used?
So many clients have a “regifting cabinet” full of perfectly lovely gifts they never use—candles often sitting right at the top of that list. And there’s absolutely no shame in that. Life gets busy. Preferences shift. Scents feel stronger than we remembered. It’s all okay.
But here’s the beautiful part: those candles can still bring joy.
A Generous and Joyful Way to Let Them Go
This time of year, schools, churches, and community groups often host gift drives—not just for children, but for children who need a gift to give to a caregiver. We don’t always think of candles as donation items, but they make wonderful contributions to “gift gallery” style drives. A child picking out something beautiful for someone they love? That’s real magic.
So if your shelves are overflowing, or if you’ve been gifted more candles than you’ll ever use, you can let them go with gratitude, knowing they’re headed straight toward someone who will cherish them.
A Gentle Finish
Organizing isn’t about forcing yourself to fit into perfect systems. It’s about creating a little more room to breathe, a little more ease in your day, and a little more peace in your home. Even something small—like clearing out a drawer of candles—can feel like lifting a tiny weight off your shoulders.
Pinky Jackson is a Decluttering Specialist and Home Organizing Expert. If you need expert organizing help, don't hesitate to reach out. Pinky and her team would love to help you. Onsite Organizing services are available in the Louisville, KY area and Virtual Organizing services are offered for clients in other locations and for those who prefer to work online. Visit pinkyjackson.com to learn about our services and schedule a free assessment.
Photo: Sarah Brown @sweetpagesco
