Keep Your Glow Going
We’ve all been there: you light your favorite candle, savoring its warm glow and comforting aroma, only to find it burning unevenly or running out way too soon. With a little love and attention, you can extend the life of your candles and get the most out of each burn. Here’s how to keep your candles glowing longer and brighter.
1. Trim the Wick (Every Single Time!)
Before every burn, trim the wick to about ¼ inch. A long wick can cause uneven burning, smoke, and soot. Keeping it short ensures a cleaner burn and helps your candle last longer. A wick trimmer or even a pair of scissors will do the trick.
2. Let It Burn (But Not Too Long)
The first burn sets the tone. Let your candle melt evenly across the surface to avoid “tunneling,” where wax builds up around the edges. Typically, this takes about 2-3 hours for most candles. Just don’t let it burn for more than 4 hours at a time, as this can overheat the wax and waste precious fragrance.
3. Protect Your Candle from Drafts
Keep your candle away from windows, fans, or air vents. Drafts can cause the flame to flicker, leading to uneven burning and wasted wax. A stable, calm environment is key for a perfect burn.
4. Use a Candle Snuffer
Blowing out your candle might be tempting, but it can cause wax splatter and smoke. Instead, use a candle snuffer to gently extinguish the flame. It’s cleaner, safer, and preserves the integrity of the wick for future burns.
5. Store It Right
When not in use, keep your candle in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Excessive heat can cause the wax to melt or warp, affecting how it burns. If your candle has a lid, pop it on to keep dust and debris away.
6. Keep It Clean
If debris (like wick trimmings) falls into the wax, remove it before relighting your candle. A clean wax pool ensures a smooth, even burn without interruptions.
7. Stop Before the Bottom
Once your candle burns down to about ½ inch of wax, it’s time to let it go. Burning beyond this point can overheat the container and pose a safety risk. Use leftover wax in a wax warmer to enjoy every last drop of fragrance.
With these simple tips, you’ll extend the life of your candles and enjoy their glow and aroma for longer. Candle care is a little ritual of love for yourself—and who doesn’t need more of that?
