Candles add warmth, ambiance, and a personal touch to any space. Whether it’s your favorite scent from WIKS Candle Co. or a seasonal fragrance, proper candle care ensures you get the best experience from your candles while extending their life. Follow these simple tips to enjoy every flicker!
1. Trim the Wick
Keeping your wick trimmed is essential for a clean, even burn. A long wick can cause uneven flames, soot, and excessive wax tunneling.
Why It Matters:
A trimmed wick ensures your candle burns evenly, reduces soot, and prevents overheating of the jar. Use a wick trimmer or scissors to cut the wick to about 1/4 inch before each burn.
2. Let the Wax Pool
When you light your candle for the first time, let it burn until the melted wax reaches the edges of the container. This prevents "tunneling," where wax burns unevenly and leaves a ring of unused wax around the sides.
Why It Matters:
The first burn sets the stage for how evenly your candle will burn for the rest of its life. Avoid drafts or breezes during this process to help the wax melt uniformly.
3. Burn Safely
Always burn your candle on a heat-resistant surface, away from flammable objects, pets, and children. Extinguish the flame after 3-4 hours to prevent overheating or the jar from cracking.
Why It Matters:
Overheating can damage your candle and pose safety risks. Make sure the container cools completely before handling.
4. Extinguish with Care
Blowing out your candle can cause wax splatter or create smoke. Instead, use a candle snuffer for a clean and safe way to extinguish the flame.
Why It Matters:
Using a snuffer prevents mess and maintains the integrity of the wick, helping it burn better next time.
5. Keep Your Candle Clean
Dust and debris can settle on your candle when it’s not in use. Cover your candle with a lid or store it in a cool, dry place.
Why It Matters:
A clean candle burns brighter and reduces impurities in the wax, keeping the scent fresh.
6. Repurpose the Jar
When your candle has burned down to about 1/2 inch of wax, it’s time to retire it. Instead of tossing the jar, repurpose it for storage or decoration.
Why It Matters:
Upcycling is eco-friendly and gives your beautiful jars a second life. Clean out wax residue carefully before reuse.
Bonus Tips for Optimal Candle Enjoyment
- Rotate Scents: Use different candles for different moods or rooms to keep your space feeling fresh.
- Combine Scents: Pair candles with complementary room sprays for a layered fragrance experience.
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