Scented candles are more than just decor; they create a relaxing atmosphere, add warmth to any room, and fill the air with delightful aromas. However, if you’re not careful, your candle might burn out faster than expected. Here’s a simple guide to help you get the most out of your scented candles and make them last longer.
1. Trim the Wick Before Each Use
The key to extending the life of your candle starts with the wick. Before lighting your candle, always trim the wick to about 1/4 inch (6-7mm). A longer wick causes the flame to flicker more, leading to uneven burning and the production of soot. By keeping it trimmed, you ensure that the flame stays steady, and the candle burns evenly.
Tip: A properly trimmed wick prevents the candle from burning too quickly and ensures that your candle lasts longer without wasting wax.
2. Let It Burn Long Enough for an Even Melt Pool
When you light your candle, make sure you allow it to burn until the entire top layer of wax has melted evenly across the surface. This is known as achieving a full "melt pool." If you don’t, your candle may start to tunnel—burning down the center while leaving wax on the sides.
Tip: Tunneling shortens your candle’s lifespan by wasting the wax around the edges that remains unused. For most candles, this takes about 2-4 hours, depending on the size. Patience is key!
3. Avoid Drafts to Maintain a Steady Flame
Burning your candle near a draft, like an open window or fan, causes the flame to flicker and dance around. This leads to uneven burning, a faster burn rate, and can even lead to more soot being produced. A steady flame means the candle burns evenly, making it last longer and preventing wax from being wasted on one side.
Tip: Place your candle in a draft-free area, away from windows, fans, and vents to protect its longevity.
4. Don’t Burn the Candle for Too Long
While it’s important to allow the candle to form a melt pool, you also don’t want to burn it for too long in one sitting. Burning a candle for more than 4 hours can cause the wick to form a "mushroom" shape. This creates a large, smoky flame and results in wasted wax. Burning for extended periods damages the wick and reduces the overall lifespan of your candle.
Tip: After 3-4 hours of burning, extinguish the candle, let it cool, and trim the wick before relighting.
5. Use a Candle Snuffer to Extinguish the Flame
Blowing out your candle may seem like the easiest method, but it can create smoke, soot, and even cause wax to splatter. Instead, use a candle snuffer to gently extinguish the flame. Snuffing the candle helps preserve the wax’s smooth surface and prevents unnecessary smoke.
6. Store Your Candles Properly
Candles are sensitive to temperature and light. When not in use, store them in a cool, dark place. Excessive heat or sunlight can melt the top layer of the candle, causing it to lose its shape or alter the scent. Proper storage ensures that your candles retain their scent and shape for future use.
Tip: Prefer re-using Lumiere luxury boxes for better care and safety of the candles.
By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your scented candles for much longer and keep their fragrance fresh with every burn. Proper candle care doesn’t just enhance your candle’s longevity—it also improves your overall experience, filling your space with beautiful aromas and a cozy atmosphere!