How to Use an Advent Candle Holder Through the Season
By Skultuna I Officiell webbutik – Skultuna 1607 | Published: 2026-10-31
Category: How-to Guides
A practical, step-by-step guide to using a Swedish advent candle holder safely and stylishly from first Sunday of Advent to Christmas Eve.
Quick answer
Set up your advent candle holder on a stable, heat-resistant surface away from drafts, light one candle each Sunday, and always extinguish flames before they reach the holders. With a few consistent habits, it becomes a safe and meaningful part of your Scandinavian Christmas decor.
Why placement matters more than decoration
An advent candle holder is both a decorative object and a live-flame fixture, so where you put it directly affects safety and enjoyment. Choose a spot that is flat, stable, and out of reach of children and pets. Avoid shelves that are bumped often, windowsills with curtains nearby, and any surface that might be sensitive to heat. If you are unsure about a tabletop’s heat resistance, place a protective mat underneath or choose another location.
The trade-off between tradition and convenience
The classic Swedish advent tradition of lighting one candle per Sunday is lovely, but it requires attention. If you prefer a more relaxed approach, you can light all four candles briefly each evening instead of letting them burn for hours. Just remember that any live flame needs supervision. Battery-operated candles are an alternative, but they lack the warmth and ritual of real candles—so decide what matters more to you.
When to skip the candles altogether
If your household has young children, curious pets, or heavy foot traffic, a live-flame advent candle holder may not be practical. In that case, use it as a decorative centerpiece without lighting the candles, or reserve the lighting for special moments when you can supervise closely. Never leave burning candles unattended, even for a moment.
Step-by-step: using your advent candle holder
- Choose a safe location: Place the holder on a flat, heat-resistant surface away from drafts, curtains, and high-traffic areas. Check that the surface can tolerate warmth; if unsure, use a protective mat. A stable, non-flammable base prevents tipping and heat damage.
- Insert candles securely: Use candles that fit snugly in the holders. Avoid forcing oversized candles, which can crack the holder or lean. Trim wicks to about 1 cm before lighting. Proper fit and wick length reduce soot and uneven burning.
- Light one candle each Sunday: Following the Swedish tradition, light the first candle on the first Sunday of Advent, then one more each subsequent Sunday. Burn each candle only until it has burned down about 1 cm, then extinguish. Short burning sessions keep candles level and extend their life.
- Extinguish before candles reach the holders: Never let candles burn all the way down. Blow them out when they are about 2 cm from the holder, and allow the wax to cool before moving the holder. This prevents heat damage and makes cleanup easier.
- Store carefully after the season: Clean off wax residue with a soft cloth and mild soap, dry thoroughly, and store in a dry place. Avoid stacking heavy items on top. Proper storage keeps the finish intact for years.
Product facts
- Adventsljusstaken: This classic advent candle holder from Skultuna has been a favorite since it was designed in the 1980s. Its long-standing design means it fits both everyday use and festive occasions, so you can enjoy it throughout the season.
Adventsljusstaken
