Lighting a candle and caring for it might sound like a no-brainer. Grab a lighter or match, and away you go lighting a candle. However, it may not be as obvious as you think that there are tips and tricks to candles that ultimately give a better burn and a longer-lasting candle. Don't feel bad if you haven't given much thought to candle care. Most people don't. But with a few simple tips, you can make your candles last longer and look better while burning.
Tip 1: The wick is key
The most important part of candle care is the wick. The right wick ensures that your candle will burn evenly and not create soot on the glass or surrounding surface. When the wick is too small for the candle, it can create a lot of soot. And when the wick is too large, the flame will be too large and could potentially cause the candle to blow out.
Tip 2: Trim your wicks
Another important part of candle care is trimming your wicks. The general rule of thumb is to trim your wicks before each use and to never let the wick get longer than 1/4 inch. Trimming your wicks ensures that they will burn evenly and not create soot.
Tip 3: Find the right spot
Not all candles are created equal. Some candles should be burned in a drafty area, and others should not. For example, beeswax candles are best burned in a draft-free area because they tend to drip if burned in a windy spot. Soy and paraffin candles, on the other hand, can be burned in a more drafty area.
Tip 4: Don't over-burn your candles
It's tempting to let your candles burn until they're gone, but it's not good for the candle or for your wallet. Over-burning a candle can cause the wax to melt too quickly, which will create a large flame and potentially blow the candle out. It can also cause the candle to produce soot. The rule to remember is don't burn a candle for more than 4 hours.
Tip 5: Let your candles cool down
Another thing you should do before putting your candles away is to let them cool down. If you put a hot candle away, the heat can cause the wax to expand and potentially damage the container.
Candles are a great way to relax and create a calm atmosphere. With these simple tips, you can make your candles last longer and look better while burning. Enjoy!
