Choose Quality Candles
The first step in prolonging your candle's life is to choose high-quality candles. Look for candles made from natural waxes like soy or beeswax. These candles tend to burn slower and cleaner, giving you more hours of enjoyment. Check the label for lead-free wicks, which contribute to a cleaner burn.
Trim the Wick
Before each lighting, trim your candle's wick to about 1/4 inch (6 mm). A shorter wick helps control the size of the flame, prevents soot buildup, and ensures an even burn. Use a wick trimmer or scissors specifically designed for candle wicks for best results, but be carefull not to cut your wick too short as it could become buried in the melt pool. If this has happened, don't panic. You can check out our blog "3 Steps to Fix Candle Wicks That Are Too Short of Buried"
Don’t blow them out
Save that for birthday cakes. Your candles deserve better! Smoke leaves an unpleasant after-scent and soot on the wick. Blowing out the candle can also cause uneven wax or tunneling in the glass container. Relighting a wick buried in wax is also harder. By using a candle snuffer, you can gently and elegantly extinguish the flame, minimizing smoke and wax splatter. This preserves the beauty and pristine appearance of your candles, enhancing their overall aesthetic appeal as well as prolonging their life span.
Avoid Tunneling
Tunneling is when a candle burns down the center, leaving wax along the sides. To prevent this, allow your candle to burn long enough during the first use for the entire surface to melt evenly. This "memory ring" sets the stage for even burns in the future.
Control Burn Time
Overextending the burn time can overheat the candle and reduce its lifespan. Avoid burning a candle for more than 4 hours at a time. If you want to enjoy the fragrance for an extended period, consider using a wax melt or switching to a new candle after reaching the recommended burn time.
Keep it Level
Place your candle on a flat, heat-resistant surface to ensure an even burn. A tilted candle can lead to uneven melting and a shorter lifespan. Avoid drafts, which can cause the candle to burn faster and unevenly.
Use a Lid or Cover
When not in use, keep your candles covered with a lid or cloche. This prevents dust and debris from settling on the wax and extends the candle's life. It also retains the fragrance, so every burn is as delightful as the first.
Store Candles Properly
If you have a collection of candles, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This prevents the wax from melting or becoming discolored, ensuring that your candles are in perfect condition when you're ready to light them.
Candles are more than just a source of light; they are an integral part of setting the mood and creating a soothing atmosphere. By following these tips to prolong your candle's lifespan, you can savor their beauty and fragrance for longer, making every moment even more special. Enjoy your candles responsibly, and let their gentle glow enhance your life.
