Candle Care Tips
Candles are more than just a way to light up a room; they bring warmth, fragrance, and ambiance to any space. However, to get the most out of your candles and ensure they burn beautifully without unwanted smoke or soot, a little care goes a long way.
Start by making it a habit to trim the wick before each use. Keeping the wick at about 1/4 inch is key to preventing excessive smoking and uneven burning. This simple step not only extends the life of your candle but also helps maintain a clean, soot-free environment.
When you light your candle for the first time, let it burn long enough to create a full melt pool—where the wax melts evenly across the surface. This helps avoid the common issue of tunneling, where wax builds up along the sides and results in wasted product. Generally, burning your candle for 2 to 4 hours at a time will do the trick.
It’s also important to place your candle away from drafts. Air from fans, windows, or vents can cause the flame to flicker and smoke, leading to uneven burning and a less-than-perfect experience. Keeping your candle in a calm, draft-free spot will ensure a steady, clean burn.
When it’s time to extinguish the flame, resist the urge to blow it out. Instead, use a candle snuffer. This helps avoid smoke and the splattering of hot wax, keeping your candle looking neat and your space smelling pleasant.
After extinguishing, allow the candle to cool completely before relighting or trimming the wick again. And don’t forget to store your candles properly—away from direct sunlight and in a cool, dry place to preserve their fragrance and color.
Finally, remember to stop using your candle when only about 1/2 inch of wax remains at the bottom. Burning it all the way down can cause the container to overheat, which may lead to cracking or other damage.
By following these simple tips, you’ll enjoy a cleaner, longer-lasting burn and get the most out of every candle, every time.