Buzz
If you want to extend the burn time of your candles, there are several simple methods you can try. Before lighting your candle, consider trimming the wick and placing it in the refrigerator to solidify the wax. Once lit, ensure the flame is shielded from drafts and allow the entire surface of the wax to melt for prolonged illumination.
Steps
Maximizing Candle Longevity
Chill your candle in the fridge or freezer to harden the wax. Solidified wax takes longer to melt, so refrigerate thin candles for 1-2 days or freeze them for 1-8 hours, adjusting the time based on thickness. Thin candles may only need an hour in the freezer, while thicker ones require 6-8 hours. Test one candle before freezing them all, as some may crack.
Slow down the melting rate of your candle by incorporating table salt into the wax. After burning the candle until a wax pool forms around the wick, sprinkle in a small amount of salt and mix it thoroughly. Be quick to add the salt before the wax solidifies.
Ensure a longer burn time by trimming the candle wick. Snip off the excess wick using scissors or nail clippers, leaving about 0.25 inches (0.64 cm) remaining. Wait for the wax and wick to cool before trimming.
Reposition the candle wick if it shifts out of place.
Blow out the candle, let it cool, then use your fingers or tongs to adjust the wick back to its original position. A centered wick ensures even burning.
Proper Candle Care
Avoid uneven burning by keeping the candle away from drafty areas. Placing the candle near vents, fans, or open windows can cause it to burn unevenly or extinguish. Position the candle where it won't be affected by airflow.
Prevent tunneling by melting the top layer of wax when lighting the candle for the first time. Ensure that the entire surface of the wax melts evenly to avoid the formation of a tunnel-like appearance. This may take approximately 2 hours for thick candles and less time for thinner ones.
Avoid burning a candle for more than 4 hours consecutively. Prolonged burning can lead to overheating of the wax, which may affect the candle's fragrance. Allow the candle to cool down after 4 hours before relighting it.
Wait for the candle to cool down completely before relighting. After extinguishing the flame, give the wax time to cool and solidify. This ensures safety when trimming the wick or cleaning excess wax. Most candles require around 2 hours to cool.
Extinguishing and Storing Your Candle
Extinguish the candle gently to prevent splattering of melted wax. Blow out the flame with a gentle puff of air or use a snuffer for a controlled extinguishing process. This prevents wax from scattering and maintains a clean candle surface.
Allow the candle to cool down before storing it. Ensure there is no smoke before replacing the lid, if applicable. Wait a few minutes for the wax to harden before storing the candle in a safe location.
Store your candle in a cool, dark area. Prevent melting or warping by keeping your candles away from high temperatures. Choose a dry, cool spot for storage, such as a closet shelf or drawer, and handle them carefully to avoid damage.
Remove any burn marks from the candle holder, if needed. If your glass candle holder has black marks from the flame, dampen a cotton pad or paper towel with soapy water. Gently rub the marks until they disappear, then dry the glass before relighting the candle.
Tips
- When not in use, cover your candle with its lid, if applicable.
- Refer to the candle's instructions for proper care.
Important Reminders
- Keep an eye on children near candles.
- Never leave a burning candle unattended—extinguish it before leaving the room or house.
- Avoid placing candles near flammable objects.
