Candle Care Guide
Candle care is essential to ensure that your candles burn efficiently, last longer, and are used safely. Here's a comprehensive candle care guide:
Trim the Wick:
- Before every burn, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch. This ensures an even burn and prevents the wick from producing a large, flickering flame, which can produce excessive smoke or soot.
- Use wick trimmers or scissors.
First Burn is Crucial:
- The first time you burn a candle sets the stage for subsequent burns. Allow the wax to melt to the edges of the container to avoid tunneling.
- Typically, this means letting the candle burn for about one hour for every inch in diameter.
Burn Duration:
- Don't burn a candle for more than 4 hours at a time. After that point, the wax can get too hot and damage the scent or cause the wick to become unstable.
- Let the candle cool for at least 2 hours before relighting.
Keep Candles Clean:
- Before lighting, remove any debris from the wax pool, like matches or trimmed wicks.
- If a black "mushroom" shape forms on the wick, trim it off before the next burn.
Avoid Drafts:
- Keep candles away from fans, open windows, air conditioners, and drafts to avoid uneven burning and dripping.
Safe Surface:
- Always burn candles on a heat-resistant, stable surface away from flammable items.
- Use candle holders or plates to catch any dripping wax.
Store Properly:
- Store candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent discoloration and warping.
- For scented candles, store in a box or drawer to maintain the scent.
Extinguish Safely:
- Use a candle snuffer or gently dip the wick into the melted wax and then straighten it. This method minimizes smoke and helps avoid hot wax splatters.
- Never use water to extinguish a candle; it can cause hot wax to splatter or the container to break.
Container Candles:
- Once the wax is down to about 1/2 inch from the bottom of the container, it's time to stop using the candle. This prevents the container from getting too hot, which could lead to a safety hazard.
Stay Alert:
- Never leave a burning candle unattended.
- Keep away from children, pets, and flammable objects.
Consider the Quality:
- Higher quality candles tend to burn cleaner and more evenly. Look for candles made with natural waxes (like soy, beeswax) and fragrances.
Scent Throw:
- If your candle isn't releasing enough scent, it might not have a large enough melt pool.
- Make sure you're allowing the candle to burn long enough to fully melt the wax across the top.
By taking proper care of your candles, you can ensure that they burn efficiently, safely, and last as long as possible.