Make Your Candles Last Longer

The Art of Wick Trimming: A Simple Step for Longer Burns

One of the most important aspects of candle care is wick trimming. But why is it so crucial? Well, a long wick can cause a high flame, leading to soot and uneven burning.

By keeping your wick trimmed to about 1cm each time you light your candle, you can provide a clean, even burn. A handy tool for this is a wick trimmer, which can reach into deep candle jars and give a clean cut every time.

Timing Your Burns: The Secret to Even Candle Burning

The burning time of a candle is another key factor in its longevity. A good rule of thumb is to let your candle burn for about couple of  hour for the first burn, thereafter let it burn till the melt pool reaches the brim of the container.

 This process prevents the process of Tunnelling.

However, don’t burn your candle for more than four hours at a time. Overly long burns can cause the wick to form a ‘mushroom’ shape, leading to excessive flickering and soot.

 Always keep your candle free from wick trimmings, matches, or any other debris that could‌ ignite.

 Storing Your Candles: The Overlooked Aspect of Candle Care

 Proper storage can significantly extend your candle’s life. You should store candles in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and harsh indoor lighting.

Extreme heat can cause candles to melt or lose their scent. When not in use, cover your candle to protect the wax from dust.

Knowing When to Say Goodbye: Safe Retirement of Your Candle

Candles bring warmth and ambiance to our spaces but knowing when to retire them is essential for safety. As a rule of thumb, it’s advisable to stop using a candle when there’s only 1/2-inch (or about 10mm) of wax remaining at the bottom. 

However, no matter the design, burning a candle beyond the recommended limit can risk overheating its container. This not only compromises the integrity of the vessel, potentially leading to breakage, but also poses a threat to the surface underneath. So, as much as we love the glow and scent of our favourite candles, safety should always come first. Recognise when it’s time to say goodbye and retire your candle responsibly