Candles can be used to create warmth and ambiance in a variety of settings. In fact, candles have become such popular home accessories that entire retail stores are devoted to nothing but candles, with tremendous success. The only downside to candles is the safety hazard they pose when used carelessly, even unintentionally. This concern has prompted retailers to provide safer alternatives to candles.
Many years ago, electric candles were the only alternative to candles that provided comparable lighting. However, their lack of aromatic appeal is unacceptable to many people today. The popularity and appeal of candles is inseparable from the smells they produce. With every imaginable scent available, from apple pie to crisp linen, people want the choice to burn scented candles that suit their mood.
Electric candle warmers, which provide a safe candle alternative without eliminating their aromas, hit the scene in very recent years. These decorative containers range in size to accommodate small votive candles to large pillars and are powered by electricity to melt the wax without the need to light the candle. This particular alternative to candles creates the desired aroma, extends the life of the candle, and is considered safer than an open flame. The only drawback is limited placement in the room, since the electric candle warmer must be placed near an electrical outlet.
Another good alternative for the purpose of aromatic pleasure is incense. Many people enjoy the scents produced by incense, even though they tend to be more exotic than many candle scents. Though burning incense does not involve open flame, the same safety precautions should be followed as with traditional candles.
The use of candles varies with the people who buy them. Some people purchase candles merely as decorative accents and never intend to burn them. In this case, an alternative to candles can be as simple as filling a glass jar, vase, or other vessel with colored stones or potpourri. At Halloween, a battery powered light can be used inside of a pumpkin instead of a candle, as can a continuous light and strobe lights.
Even though there is an alternative to candles to suit most people, many still prefer the traditional scented candle. Keep in mind that jar candles create a stronger scent than freestanding pillar candles. Also remember that candles should never be left burning unattended and should not be burned when much less than an inch of wax remains. Use caution when burning candles and keep open flames away from children and flammable objects.