Candle Care 101: How to Make Your Candles Last Longer

Navya Shatdal

Candles are a lovely way to bring warmth, scents, and atmosphere to your home. But to enjoy your beloved candle to its fullest, it's necessary to learn how to take care of it. Whether you wish to indulge in the fragrance for hours or maintain the look of the wax, following the right steps in caring for your candles will make them burn evenly, last longer, and smell great all the time. Below are some vital tips on how to extend the life of your candles and get the best out of them.

1. Trim the Wick Before Each Burn

One of the simplest and most critical things you can do to help prolong the life of your candle is trim the wick prior to each use. A wick that is too long will make the candle burn too hot, which leads to a quicker burn and more soot. The wick should ideally be around 1/4 inch long. This assists in providing a consistent, clean burn and less chance for the candle flame to become excessively large. Cutting the wick with a wick trimmer or scissors will enable you to neatly cut the wick to the ideal length.

2. Burn Your Candle for the Right Amount of Time

When you first burn your candle, be sure to burn it long enough for all of the top layer of wax to completely melt evenly. This will take approximately 1-2 hours depending on the candle size. If you burn it for less time than this, it can create "tunneling" and the wax will burn down the middle of the candle, resulting in an outside ring of leftover wax. To prevent this, always burn your candle long enough to completely melt the surface each time.

  3. Let the Candle Cool Between Burns

Let your candle cool to room temperature before lighting it up again. This will not cause the wax to melt too much and maintain the form of the candle. Constantly burning the candle without letting it cool could lead to the wax developing a distorted surface, and this might create an imbalanced burn for subsequent uses.

4. Proper Storage for Your Candles

To make your candles last longer, it's essential to store them. Store candles in a dry, cool area, out of direct sunlight and heat sources. Sunlight can make the wax turn color, and heat can make the candle melt too early. Store candles with their lids closed (if they have one) to prevent dust, dirt, and air from interfering with the scent and color of the wax.

5. Stay Away from Drafts and Air Currents

Position the candle in a location free from drafts when lighting it. Drafts or air flows will make the candle burn irregularly, creating a faster burn and potentially forming soot. A smooth, peaceful flame is best for a consistent, longer burn, so do not light candles near open windows, air vents, or fans.

6. Use the Candle Properly

When using a candle, be mindful of its environment. Make sure it’s on a heat-resistant surface and that the wick is centered to ensure an even burn. Never leave a candle burning unattended, and always extinguish it by snuffing out the flame or using a candle snuffer—blowing it out can cause wax to splatter and can also lead to a messy candle jar.

Conclusion

With a few easy steps, you can greatly prolong the life of your candles and ensure they burn evenly and safely. By trimming the wick, letting the wax melt evenly, storing your candles correctly, and keeping them away from drafts, you can maximize the use of each candle and enjoy your favorite fragrances for longer. Proper care for your candle not only leads to a longer burn, but it also adds to your overall candle experience, enabling you to enjoy a warm, scented ambiance at home.