Glow Sticks Frequently Asked Questions:

How do glowing sticks work?

The light of a glow in the dark stick is generated by a chemical reaction known as 'chemiluminescence'. Most commonly, a hydrogen peroxide solution (activator) is mixed with a solution of phenyl oxalate ester (oxalate) and a fluorescent dye which helps to determine the color. The `activator` is stored in a small glass capsule separating it from the other glow material in the plastic tube. When bending a glowing stick to activate it, you are actually breaking the small glass ampoule to release the 'activator' and start the chemical reaction to create a bright glowing effect. Shaking the stick after activation will help speed up the mixing process.

How long do glowsticks last?

Glowing Sticks come in many different sizes. The size does determine the length of the glow duration. A small miniature glowstick such as a 1.5 inch to 3 inch can glow for 2 to 4 hours. Large glow batons which hold much more glow material can light up much longer: up to 12 hours or more. A regular 6 Inch Lighted Stick will typically glow for 8 to 12 hours.

What is the shelf life of a light stick?

The shelf life of a Glow Stick is dependent on the environment the products are being stored in. Keeping the lighted sticks in their original foil packaging and in a dry, room-temperature storage area will help extend the shelf life. General shelf life for properly stored Glowing Sticks is 3 to 5 years. Size does determine the length of shelf life as well. Smaller sticks typically have a shelf life of 1 to 3 years, larger glow batons (6 inches and longer) can last 5 years if properly stored.

How do you activate a glow in the dark stick?

To activate a lighted stick, you have to mix the glow materials to start the process. By bending the stick, you will crack the internal glass ampoule that houses the 'activator'. Once you hear the inside ampoule break, give the stick a good shake to properly mix the liquids together and get the light reaction going.

Does temperature affect a glowstick?

Yes. Heat will speed up the light emitting reaction causing a glowstick to glow brighter, but for a shorter period of time. The colder the temperature is, the dimmer the glow effect will be, but the duration will be much longer.

Will putting a Glow Stick in the freezer make it last longer?

By placing an activated Glow Stick in the freezer, you will be momentarily 'pausing' the glow reaction. Removing it from the freezer and heating it up by placing it in hot water, you will continue the chemical reaction and cause the Glow Wand to start glowing again. Safety Note: Do not attempt to reheat your stick after freezing by placing it in a microwave. This can cause the lighted stick to melt or explode. Use only hot water to reheat a frozen glowstick.

Are the chemicals in a Light Stick toxic?

No, the chemicals used in our brand of Glowing Sticks are non-toxic. It is still not suggested to remove the liquid as it can cause skin and eye irritation. If you get the internal liquid in your eyes, it is best to wash out the affected areas with cold water immediately. If you experience continued irritation, inform and consult your doctor.

Can I use glowsticks in the water?

Yes, glowsticks are completely water-proof and are widely used for diving safety and emergency, night time fishing and for recreational swimming and pool use.

What is the difference between premium and standard brands?

Premium Brand Glowsticks offer a higher volume of glow mixture resulting in a longer duration light effect. Premium brand light sticks generally light up for 12 hours and Standard brand light sticks will last for 8 hours.

What are the brightest colors?

The brightest colors are as listed from brightest to least: Green, Yellow, Aqua, Orange, Blue, Pink, White, Red.

Do you provide a discount for bulk ordering?

Yes. On each product page you will see quantity pricing listed, if you are looking for a quantity not displayed, contact us directly, toll-free at 1-877-233-GLOW (4569) to speak to a customer service representative about pricing for bulk glow sticks. Glowproducts.com will work with you to provide the best wholesale light stick pricing we can!