Tips to help you maintain candles effectively
Trim the wick: Before lighting a candle, make sure to trim the wick to about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) in length. This helps control the size of the flame and prevents excessive flickering and soot formation.
Burn it for an appropriate duration: Allow candles to burn long enough for the wax to melt and pool evenly across the surface. This helps prevent tunneling, where the wax only melts in the center, leaving wax buildup along the sides.
Avoid drafts: Keep candles away from drafts, as they can cause uneven burning and shorten the candle's lifespan. Drafts can also make the flame flicker excessively and increase the risk of accidents.
Use candle accessories: Consider using candle accessories like a snuffer or wick dipper to extinguish the flame. This helps minimize smoke and prevents the wick from getting displaced or creating a mess.
Store candles properly: To maintain their quality, store candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Extreme temperatures can affect their shape and fragrance.
Clean soot and debris: If soot forms on the container or surrounding surfaces, gently clean it with a soft cloth. This helps keep the candle looking clean and prevents soot from being released into the air.
Burn candles safely: Always place candles on a heat-resistant surface and away from flammable materials. Never leave a burning candle unattended, and keep them out of reach of children and pets.
By following these tips, you can enjoy your candles safely and prolong their lifespan
Wick Trimming
Wait for the candle to cool: Ensure that the candle is completely cool and not lit or recently extinguished before attempting to trim the wick.
Use proper tools: Obtain a wick trimmer, small scissors, or nail clippers specifically designated for candle wick trimming. These tools are designed to provide a clean and precise cut.
Trim to the recommended length: Check the candle manufacturer's instructions for the recommended wick length. Generally, it is suggested to trim the wick to about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) in length. This helps promote a controlled flame and reduces the risk of excessive flickering and soot formation.
Burn Duration
Burning a candle for at least one hour allows the wax to melt and form a pool across the surface, which helps prevent tunneling and ensures an even burn. This helps maximize the candle's lifespan and prevents wasted wax.
However, it is also important not to exceed four hours of continuous burning. Prolonged burning can lead to overheating of the container, potential wick issues, and can increase the risk of accidents. It's advisable to extinguish the candle, allow it to cool, and trim the wick before relighting it for subsequent burn sessions.
Candle storage
Keep them cool and dry: Store candles in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight and sources of heat. Exposure to high temperatures can cause the candles to warp, soften, or melt. Excessive humidity can affect their texture and fragrance.
Store upright: Keep candles stored in an upright position to maintain their shape and prevent bending or warping. If candles are stored on their sides or upside down, they may become misshapen or develop uneven surfaces.
Use protective containers: If your candles are in containers, such as jars or tins, ensure that the lids or covers are in place to protect them from dust, debris, or potential damage.