It’s fun to splurge on a luxurious candle with an incredible scent. However, you may have experienced having these candles, and the flame flickers and dies within a few minutes. You may have even had the candle burn down do the middle, with a ring of unused wax around the edges.
If you’ve ever experienced the frustration of a candle being wasted or having a poor burn, you’re not alone. Some of the most common candle-making issues include tunneling, sinkholes, extinguishing wicks, and mushrooming.
However, there are solutions to these issues. By following a few simple steps, you can make the most of your candle and add even more of your favorite fragrance throughout your home.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know on how to keep your candles burning bright and smelling incredible. Whether you’re new to the process or a candle lover, these tips and tricks are sure to help.
The first step to making sure your candle burns properly is to make sure the initial burn is done correctly. The initial burn has an impact on the way the candle burns overall.
The reason behind this is that the initial burn determines how the wax will melt and pool throughout subsequent uses. If you don’t allow the wax to melt to the edges of the container, you’ll end up with a tunneling effect, which prevents your candle from burning evenly.
To avoid this, let your candle burn for around an hour for every inch of its diameter during its first use. This creates what is known as a “melt pool,” which ensures that the wax burns evenly all the way down.
We know, we know. Trimming the wick seems like a tedious chore. But hear us out – it's the key to a clean, even burn and a long-lasting candle.
While wick trimming may seem tedious, it can be the key to a clean, even burn. It may even help your candle last longer.
When your wick is long, it can create a larger flame, which may cause the following:
To avoid these issues, you can trim your wick to around ¼ inch before each burn. Use a dedicated wick trimmer or a pair of sharp scissors to get the desired result. A clean, short wick can lead to a steady, controlled flame, and a healthier candle.
Tunneling is the effect of when your candle burns and the wax only meets in the center. This can leave a thick, untouched ring around the edges. It’s a common issue many candle users deal with, which can lead to you feeling as if you aren’t getting the full use out of it.
While it can be frustrating, tunneling is entirely preventable. Here are some methods to stop tunneling on your candles:
By following these fundamental tips, you can help prevent tunneling and maximize the lifespan of your candle.
Let's be honest – a perfectly smooth wax surface is a sight to behold. But sometimes, candles can cool with bumpy or uneven tops, leaving them looking a bit less than Instagram-worthy.
It’s not easy to get a perfectly smooth wax surface. Candles can sometimes cool with a bumpy or uneven top, which leaves them looking a bit worse for wear
Here’s a simple way to get a smoother surface though:
While blowing out a candle is the way many of us extinguish a flame, it’s not the best. Blowing out a candle can send soot flying and even impact the air quality.
Here are some alternatives to blowing out a candle:
By incorporating these graceful extinguishing techniques into your candle care routine, you can maintain a clean and healthy environment while extending the life of your wick.
While taking meticulous care of your candle can be effective, it may still lead to some unwanted results. If you are still dealing with some common candle issues, these tips will help you get back on track.
If you’ve ever lit a candle and experienced a plume of black smoke and soot, it can be an offputting experience. Below are some of the ways you can fix your candle to deal with the smoke situation:
If you’ve lit your candle and have a hard time noticing the fragrance, then your candle has a weak scent. There’s no need to throw it out though. Here are some important things to know about candles with weak scents and what can be done to fix them:
If you notice a crack in your favorite candle jar, it can be a real downside and may prevent you from using your candle again.
Here's what to do if you find a crack:
Remember, a cracked jar doesn't mean your candle is ruined, but it's important to prioritize safety and take the necessary precautions to prevent accidents.
Just like us, candles come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities. And just like us, they have unique needs and preferences. Here's how to care for some popular candle wax types:
Soy wax has become a favorite among eco-conscious candle enthusiasts for its clean-burning and sustainable qualities. To get the most out of your soy candles:
Beeswax candles are known for their natural honey scent and clean-burning properties. They produce a bright, steady flame and are virtually dripless.
Paraffin wax is the most common type of wax used in candles, known for its excellent scent throw and affordability.
By understanding the unique characteristics and care requirements of different candle types, you can ensure that each one burns beautifully and lasts as long as possible.
In the world of candle care, myths and misconceptions abound. Let's set the record straight and bust some common candle myths once and for all.
This old wives' tale suggests that freezing your candles before burning them will make them last longer. While it might sound plausible, freezing can actually cause the wax to crack and negatively impact the candle's performance. Stick to proper burning and wick-trimming practices for the best results.
As we've mentioned, blowing out a candle can create soot and smoke, leading to a less-than-pleasant experience. Instead, use a candle snuffer or the wick-dipping method to extinguish your candles cleanly and safely.
Not all wicks are the same. Some are made of cotton, while others may have a metal core. Each type of wick has its own burning characteristics, and using the wrong wick for your candle can result in poor performance. Stick to high-quality candles from reputable brands to ensure a great burn.
Candles are more than just a source of light; they're a way to create ambiance, evoke memories, and add a touch of luxury to your home. By following these simple care and maintenance tips, you can ensure that your candles burn beautifully, last longer, and provide you with endless moments of joy.
Remember, a little bit of candle care goes a long way. From the first burn to the final flicker, your candles deserve the best treatment. So, go ahead and light up your life with confidence, knowing that you have the ultimate guide to candle care by your side.
