Tealights

Tealights are small, lightweight candles designed to burn for a few hours and are typically placed in thin metal or plastic cups that catch melted wax and protect the flame. They are most commonly made from paraffin wax, but variants using soy, beeswax, or gel wax exist; they use a cotton wick and can be scented or unscented.

Tealights are widely used for decorative lighting, at weddings and parties, in centerpieces, religious or ceremonial settings, or as accents in fragrance displays or oil warmers. Their compact size and concealed flame make them suitable for use in a variety of holders and setups.

The burn time generally ranges from about 3 to 5 hours, depending on the wax type, cup size, wick height, and room ventilation. Performance can vary with draft, temperature, and the depth of the melted wax pool.

For safety, use tealights in appropriate holders on stable, heat-resistant surfaces; keep away from flammable materials, pets, and children; never leave burning candles unattended; extinguish before leaving the room and allow the cup to cool before handling. Avoid touching the cup while the candle is lit.

After use, let the cup cool completely and dispose of the metal or plastic cup in recycling where available. Eco-friendly variants use soy or beeswax and are marketed as more sustainable, though all candles produce some emissions. Tealights are distinct from votive candles, which are typically burned directly in a holder without a contained cup.