Candle Care Tips

Proper candle care is essential to ensure a longer burn time and to maximize your enjoyment of your candles. Here are some tips on how to care for your candles:

1. Trim the Wick: Before each use, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm). A long wick can lead to excessive flickering, smoking, and uneven burning. You can use wick trimmers or scissors for this purpose. Trimming the wick helps to maintain a stable flame and prevent soot buildup.

2. The First Burn: When you light a new candle, allow it to burn until the entire surface is melted. This is called the "memory burn." It prevents the candle from tunneling in the future. For larger candles, this may take a few hours. Extinguishing the candle too soon can cause wax to tunnel, where the candle only burns down the center, leaving a lot of unused wax on the sides.

3. Avoid Drafts: Keep your candles away from drafts, as they can cause uneven burning and may even extinguish the flame. Drafts can also lead to soot and a quicker burn time.

4. Even Burning: Try to burn your candles long enough each time to ensure an even wax pool across the entire surface. This typically takes one hour for every inch in diameter of the candle. If you can't burn the candle for that long, it's better to wait until you have enough time.

5. Candle Snuffer: Instead of blowing out the candle, use a candle snuffer to extinguish it. Blowing can create smoke and soot, which can accumulate on the candle's surface.

6. Rotate Your Candles: If you have multiple candles, it's a good idea to rotate their use. This helps prevent uneven burning on a single candle and extends the life of each.

7. Candle Accessories: Using a candle accessory like a shade or topper can help regulate the temperature and airflow around the candle, which can improve the burn time and reduce soot.

8. Storage: When your candle is not in use, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Avoid extreme temperatures, as they can cause the wax to melt or warp the container. Also, keep the lid on to protect the candle from dust and other contaminants.

9. Recenter the Wick: If you notice the wick drifting to one side as the candle burns, gently recenter it to ensure even burning.

10. Regular Maintenance: Over time, candles can accumulate dust and dirt on the surface. You can gently clean them with a soft cloth to keep them looking fresh and to prevent any debris from affecting the flame.

By following these tips, you can ensure a longer burn time for your candles, a more even and consistent fragrance, and a safer candle-burning experience. Proper care not only extends the life of your candles but also enhances the ambiance they provide.