Candles are a must when decorating your home. Not only do they provide soft light, but they also inspire relaxation, give off beautiful scents and add a romantic touch to any room. Depending on what candle sizes you choose, you can add single, cluster or unique candle holders to create the perfect setting.
Below we highlight the different types of candles, candle sizes and uses for all. This will help determine which candles are right for your space.
Standard Candle Sizes
When shopping for a candle, you’ll notice there are many to choose from. Keep in mind pillars, filled and flameless candles can vary in size, but we focused on standard sizes in this article.
Candle Sizes Chart
| Type | Diameter | Height |
| Tea Light | 1 ½ in | ¾ – 1 in |
| Votive | 1 – 2 in | 2 – 3 in |
| Filled Candle | 3 ¼ in | 4 in |
| Pillar | 2 – 4 in | 3 – 9 in |
| Taper | ½ – 3 in | 6 – 18 in |
| Flameless | All sizes | All sizes |
Tea Lights
Typical burn time: 3–5 hours
Tea lights are practical because they are small, lightweight, easy to hold and can add flair to any home or event, such as a wedding. They have built-in metal and plastic holders to make cleaning up a breeze since they can be disposed of right after use. Tea lights are great for both small and large spaces. Try using them on your bathroom countertop for a soft look or as part of your wedding centerpieces.
Votive Candles
Typical burn time: 10 hours
Votive candles are the taller version of tea lights. Oftentimes, they come in a glass holder that can be reused, but you can also find some that stand alone. If you need a small candle that will last, a votive is a great way to go. Use them on your dresser for a pop of light and a romantic feel. Votives have a classic look and can add sophistication to any room.
Filled Candles
Typical burn time: 60–80 hours
Filled candles are the most common and versatile because they come in a handy glass holder and include a beautiful scent. For this reason, they are great everywhere in the home including bookshelves, kitchen counters, living room end tables and in the bathroom. These candles look great in a catch-all or serving tray alongside your favorite coffee table books.
Pillar Candles
Typical burn time: 50–60 hour
Pillar candles are long-lasting, unique and usually cylinder-shaped with one to three wicks. They are designed to burn for longer periods of time, usually no less than 2–3 hours. They can stand alone on flat heat-resistant surfaces or can be placed on a candleholder. For a dramatic and elegant look, cluster a variety of them in one area and add blankets and pillows for a cozy anniversary celebration or fun family time.
Taper Candles
Typical burn time: 10 hours
Taper candles are beautiful and romantic. They are perfect for a memorable dinner with your sweetheart or a dinner party with your closest friends and can also look great on your mantel year-round. Taper candles look beautiful in beeswax because of their unique texture and elegance. Don’t forget to pick out taper candleholders to go along with your decor as they can’t stand alone.
Flameless Candles
Flameless candles come in a variety of sizes and shapes. There are many benefits for using these in your home or party decor such as safety around kids, versatile usage and programmable timers. Depending on which candle you get, you can even add fragrance for an extra touch. Though flameless candles are made out of wax, you’ll never have to worry about forgetting to blow them out.
As you can see, you have many options when choosing the perfect candle size for your space. Whether you are candle shopping for a cozy gathering or thinking of room decor ideas, there is always a candle to help your space shine.
