A good candle does more than scent a room, it establishes a tone. Whether you’re lighting a massage candle for self-care or taper candles for ambiance, how you burn them matters. With just a bit of care, you can make your candles last longer, burn cleaner, and feel safer to use.
Here’s everything you need to know.
1. Start with the First Burn
The first time you light a candle, allow it to form a complete melt pool, where the melted wax reaches the very edges of the container. This process typically takes 1–2 hours, depending on the size of the candle.
Why it matters: Wax has memory. If you extinguish it too early, the candle may tunnel (burning straight down the middle), wasting wax and shortening its lifespan. Allowing it to fully melt the first time ensures it burns evenly every subsequent use.
2. Trim Your Wick (Every Time)
Before each burn, trim your wick to approximately 5–6mm (roughly ¼ inch). You may use wick trimmers, nail scissors, or even pinch off the burnt tip with your fingers once cooled.
Why it matters: A properly trimmed wick helps maintain a steady flame, reduces soot, and ensures the candle burns at the right temperature. If your flame is flickering, mushrooming, or producing smoke, it’s likely that the wick is too long.
3. Safe Placement is Everything
Always place candles on a stable, heatproof surface, away from anything flammable—curtains, paper, fabrics, or wooden surfaces. Avoid positioning candles near open windows or vents, as drafts can cause uneven burning and heighten the risk of flare-ups.
Furthermore, never move a lit candle. If you need to reposition it, extinguish it, allow it to cool completely, then move it.
4. Know When to Stop
As your candle approaches the bottom, cease burning when approximately 1–1.5 cm of wax remains. Burning beyond this point may cause the container to overheat, raising the risk of cracks or breakage.
This is particularly crucial for glass containers. A shallow wax pool, combined with high heat, can place stress on the glass—it's best not to push it.
5. Extinguish with Intention
Always extinguish your candle safely. Snuffing is the best method—it prevents splashing wax or smoke plumes. If you blow it out, do so gently and away from the hot pool of wax.
Never use water to extinguish a candle. It can cause hot wax to splatter or even crack the vessel, especially if it’s glass.
6. Clean Between Burns
Keep your candle clear of debris such as spent matches, burnt wick ends, or dust. These can disrupt the flame and heighten the risk of uneven burning or flare-ups. If your wax begins to appear cloudy or discoloured, it’s time for a quick wipe once it has cooled. A clean surface helps preserve the scent quality and overall experience.
Bonus Tips for Specific Candles
Massage Candles:
Let the wax melt into a full pool, extinguish the flame, and allow the wax to cool slightly before pouring. Always test the temperature on your wrist before applying it to the body.
Taper Candles:
Utilise snug holders to keep them upright and secure. Burn away from draughts and trim the wick before each use. Cease burning when 2 inches remain to avoid instability.
Wax Melts:
Use in appropriate burners (tealight or electric). Never overfill. Clean out used wax once the scent fades to keep your burner fresh and safe.
Burn Beautifully. Burn Smart.
Candle care doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s about being mindful. A few simple habits can help you enjoy a cleaner, safer, more beautiful experience every time.
Treat it like a ritual. Light with care, burn with intention, and let the glow do the rest.
