How to take care of your candles

How to take care of your candles

Candles create a cozy atmosphere, but to get the most out of them, proper care is essential. Follow these tips to extend their lifespan and ensure a safe, even burn.

1. Trim the wick before each use

Before lighting your candle, trim the wick to about ¼ inch. This helps:

  • Prevent excessive soot and smoke
  • Ensure a steady, even burn
  • Extend the candle’s lifespan

Use wick trimmers or scissors for a clean cut before each burn.

2. Let the wax pool form completely

The first burn is crucial! Always let the wax melt to the edges of the container to prevent tunneling, which wastes wax and reduces burn time. This can take 1-3 hours, depending on the candle size.

3. Avoid burning for too Long

Burning a candle for more than 3-4 hours at a time can cause:

  • Excessive soot buildup
  • Overheating of the jar
  • Uneven burning and wax wastage

Extinguish the flame and let the candle cool before relighting.

4. Keep the wax clean

Dust, debris, and burnt wick remnants can affect how cleanly your candle burns. Keep the wax free of any impurities to prevent uneven burning and unnecessary smoke.

5. Store candles properly

To maintain fragrance and quality:

  • Store candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
  • Keep lids on jar candles to preserve scent strength
  • Avoid exposure to heat to prevent melting or warping

6. Use the right tools for extinguishing

Blowing out a candle can cause wax splatter and excess smoke. Instead, use:

  • A candle snuffer – prevents soot and smoke
  • A wick dipper – helps eliminate smoke and keeps the wick in good shape

7. Stop using a candle when there’s ½ inch of wax Left

For safety reasons, avoid burning a candle down to the very bottom. When about ½ inch of wax remains, it's time to stop using it to prevent overheating the container and possible cracking.

Caring for your candles properly ensures a longer, cleaner, and safer burn. By trimming the wick, avoiding tunneling, and using proper storage, you can enjoy your candles to the fullest.

Looking for more candle care tips? Subscribe to our blog!

Back to blog