How to burn a soy wax candle correctly
On 2025-02-12 09:45:04
How to burn a candle correctly?
I am a candle enthusiast, it is no secret. I carve candles which I love to make, but scented candles are also my best friend. I have always tried to get the most out of these little flames that not only warm a room, but also my soul. However, it often happened that a candle did not burn evenly, but quickly went out, or was covered in black smoke and smelly. Over the years, I have learned many tips and tricks that I will now share with you so that you can get the most out of your favorite candles.
The importance of the first burn
The first burn is the key to the longevity of a candle. When you light your candle for the first time, let it burn until the entire surface of the wax has melted, all the way to the edge. This ensures that the candle burns evenly and prevents tunneling, i.e. the wax only melts around the wick, creating a trench for itself. If you don't give it enough time for the first burn, the candle will burn out faster in the middle than at the edges, which will significantly reduce its lifespan. The middle will only burn, and the edges will remain there so they don't melt. The first burn depends on the diameter of the candle as to how long it should burn. There is no exact time. You need to keep an eye on the candle. If the surface has melted completely, it can be extinguished.
The length of the wick also matters
Always check the length of the wick before lighting the candle. A wick that is too long can cause an excessively large flame, which leads to sooting. Ideally, the wick should be 4-5 mm long. If it is too long, cut it with scissors or a special wick cutting tool. Before lighting a second time, trim the charred wick and light it that way.
Rules for burning time
Never let a candle burn for more than 3-4 hours at a time. This will prevent the wax from getting too hot, which can damage the quality of the candle. If you want to enjoy the candle's ambiance for longer, extinguish it, let it cool, and then relight it.
How to extinguish it correctly?
The best way to extinguish candles is to use a candle snuffer or a wick snuffer. Traditional snuffing can cause soot and leave an unpleasant smoke smell. If you don't have a snuffer, simply use a spoon to dip the wick into the melted wax and then straighten it out. You can blow it out, but it will just create smoke, which isn't a pleasant smell.
Storing candles
Store candles in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight. Room temperature is also fine. (Don't leave them in the car in the summer heat, like I did, because the wax and your candle will run off! I mean, it didn't happen to me, but I was able to melt it all back down with a heat gun to make it normal.) Sunlight can eventually melt the candle or fade its colors. It's a good idea to store scented candles in an airtight container to preserve the fragrance.
My safety tips
Never leave a candle unattended, especially if there are children or pets nearby. Always place it on a heat-resistant surface and keep a distance of at least 10 cm between different candles. Also, make sure that there are no flammable materials nearby, such as curtains or paper.
How to extend the life of a candle?
If you want your candle to last as long as possible, always follow the above. Also, regularly remove any carbon that has accumulated on the wick and make sure that the surface of the candle remains clean.
Why is this important?
Candles are not only an aesthetic experience, but also contribute to spiritual renewal. If you burn them correctly, you will not only save your wallet, but you can also ensure that each flame is a small celebration and peace.
What methods do you use to burn your candles correctly? Share your experiences with me!