What is proper candle care? How can I get my candle to last longer?
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The Ultimate Guide to Proper Candle Care: How to Make Your Candles Last Longer
Candles are more than just a source of light—they’re a way to create ambiance, add a touch of elegance, and enjoy delightful fragrances. To make the most out of your candles, it's crucial to understand proper candle care and techniques for extending their lifespan. In this guide, we'll cover essential tips and tricks that will help you make your candles last longer and stay in top condition. Whether you're a candle enthusiast or simply enjoy an occasional scented candle, these insights will enhance your candle experience.
1. Trim the Wick Regularly
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to ensure your candles burn longer is by keeping the wick trimmed. A wick that is too long can lead to excessive soot, a flickering flame, and a reduced burn time. Aim to trim the wick to about 1/4 inch - 1/2 inch before each lighting. This practice helps the candle burn more evenly and reduces the amount of soot produced, which keeps your candle looking clean and extends its life. If you see a mushroom like pattern at the end of your wicks, trim that part off before relighting
2. Burn Candles in Optimal Conditions
Candles burn best in a stable environment. To maximize their lifespan, place your candles away from drafts, open windows, or fans. These conditions can cause uneven burning and reduce the overall burn time. Additionally, avoid burning candles for more than four hours at a time, as prolonged exposure to heat can cause the wax to pool excessively, leading to a shorter burn time.
3. Allow the Wax Pool to Reach the Edges
When lighting a candle, let the wax pool reach the edges of the container before extinguishing it. This prevents tunneling—a common issue where the candle burns down the center, leaving unused wax along the sides. Achieving a full melt pool helps the candle burn evenly and maximizes the amount of wax used, ultimately extending the candle's life.
4. Store Candles Properly
Proper storage is key to preserving your candles' quality and longevity. Keep your candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can cause the wax to discolor and affect the fragrance. Store them in their original packaging or cover them with a dust cover to protect them from dust and debris.
5. Use Candle Accessories
Consider using candle accessories like wick trimmers and snuffers to maintain your candles. Wick trimmers help keep the wick at the optimal length, while snuffers are a safer way to extinguish the flame without creating smoke. Investing in these tools can enhance your candle experience and ensure they burn longer and more cleanly.
6. Choose Quality Candles
Not all candles are created equal. Opt for high-quality candles made from natural waxes like soy, like ours. These types of candles tend to burn cleaner and last longer than paraffin candles. Quality candles also have better fragrance throw and are less likely to produce soot. While they might cost a bit more, the benefits of a cleaner burn and longer life are worth the investment.
7. Clean the Candle Jar
After your candle has burned down, clean the jar thoroughly before repurposing it. Leftover wax can be removed by placing the jar in the freezer for a few hours to harden the wax, which can then be popped out. Wash the jar with warm, soapy water to remove any remaining residue. This step is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the candle and ensuring it burns properly the next time.
Proper candle care is essential for enjoying the full benefits of your candles and making them last as long as possible. By following these tips—trimming the wick, burning candles in optimal conditions, allowing the wax pool to reach the edges, storing candles properly, using accessories, choosing quality candles, rotating your collection, and cleaning the jar—you can enhance your candle experience and extend the life of your favorite candles.
Implement these strategies and watch your candles burn longer, more evenly, and more beautifully. Happy candle burning!
