The main distinction between these two types of tea lights lies in their **manufacturing process**, which affects their **density, burn time, surface texture, price**, and **container compatibility**.
#### **1. Pressed Tea Lights**
- **Process:** Solid wax is **crushed into powder or granules**, then **mechanically compressed** into molds under high pressure.
- **Characteristics:**
- **Lower density:** Air gaps remain between wax particles, even under compression.
- **Shorter burn time:** Less wax per volume means faster burning (typically 30-50% shorter than poured tea lights).
- **Rougher surface:** The pressed finish may appear grainy or slightly uneven.
- **Lower cost:** Simpler production process and cheaper materials (often paraffin wax with a low melting point).
- **More affordable:** Usually the most budget-friendly option.
- **Deeper melt pool & higher burning temperature:** Lower density causes faster melting, creating a deeper liquid wax pool with a hotter flame.
- **Requires metal cups only:** Due to high heat and deep melt pool, **glass cups are unsafe**—only **thick metal containers** should be used.
- **Wick type:** Typically cotton wicks.
#### **2. Poured Tea Lights**
- **Process:** **Melted wax** (often paraffin, soy, coconut, palm, or blends) is **poured into molds** and left to cool and solidify.
- **Characteristics:**
- **Higher density:** Wax cools in a tightly packed structure with minimal air pockets.
- **Longer burn time:** More wax per volume results in extended burning (often 30-50% longer than pressed tea lights).
- **Smoother surface:** The poured finish is typically sleek and polished.
- **Higher cost:** More labor-intensive (melting, pouring, cooling) and may use premium wax blends.
- **More expensive:** Priced higher than pressed tea lights.
- **Shallower melt pool & lower burning temperature:** Higher density leads to slower melting and a more controlled flame.
- **Safer for glass containers:** Can be used in **thick glass cups or metal holders** (lower risk of cracking).
- **Wick type:** Usually cotton wicks (some premium versions may use wood wicks).
- **Better for additives:** Easier to evenly mix fragrances and dyes.
### **Summary: Pressed vs. Poured Tea Lights**
| Feature | **Pressed Tea Lights** | **Poured Tea Lights** |
|——————|————————————–|————————————–|
| **Manufacturing** | Wax powder compressed under pressure | Melted wax poured into molds |
| **Density** | **Low** (air gaps) | **High** (compact structure) |
| **Burn Time** | **Shorter** | **Longer** (30-50%+) |
| **Surface** | **Rough texture** | **Smooth finish** |
| **Cost** | **Cheaper** | **More expensive** |
| **Burn Behavior** | Deep melt pool, **hotter flame** | Shallow melt pool, **cooler flame** |
| **Container** | **Metal cups only** (high risk) | **Thick glass or metal** (safer) |
| **Wick Type** | Cotton | Cotton (sometimes wood wicks) |
| **Additives** | Harder to blend evenly | Easier to mix fragrances/colors |
### **Buying Guide:**
- **Choose pressed tea lights** if you want **the cheapest option** for short-term use and have **metal holders**.
- **Choose poured tea lights** if you prefer **longer burn time, smoother appearance, better fragrance release, and safer use in glass containers**.
In short: **Pressed tea lights are cheaper but burn faster and hotter (metal cups only). Poured tea lights cost more but last longer, look better, and are safer for glass.** Always check product descriptions or ask the seller about the manufacturing method before purchasing.
Zhongya candle factory
whatsapp: +86//187//3296//0113
wechat: +86//156//9035//5727
Email: Betty@kangdecandle.com
Post time: Aug-15-2025