As the founder of Calen, a small business specializing in non-toxic, eco-friendly 100% natural soy candles, I've learned a thing or two about making candles last. Candles can be a wonderful way to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere in your home, but they can also be a bit of an investment. That's why I'm excited to share some of my top tips for making your candles last longer.
Trim the Wick
One of the most important things you can do to extend the life of your candle is to trim the wick before each use. As the candle burns, the wick can become quite long, which can lead to an uneven, sooty burn. Trimming the wick to about 1/4 inch before lighting will help the candle burn more evenly and efficiently, allowing you to get the most out of it.
I recommend keeping a small pair of scissors or wick trimmers near your candles so you can easily trim the wick before each use. It only takes a few seconds, but it can make a big difference in the longevity of your candle.
Burn the Candle Properly
Another key to making your candles last is to burn them properly. When you first light a candle, allow it to burn for at least 1-2 hours, or until the wax has melted all the way to the edge of the container. This helps prevent tunneling, which is when the wax only melts in the center, leaving the sides unburned.
It's also important to trim the wick after each use, as mentioned earlier. This helps prevent the wick from getting too long and creating an uneven, sooty burn.
Additionally, try to avoid burning your candles for more than 4 hours at a time. Longer burn times can cause the wax to heat up too much, leading to faster evaporation and a shorter candle life.
Store Candles Properly
Where and how you store your candles can also impact their longevity. Ideally, you should store your candles in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Exposure to heat and light can cause the wax to melt and the scent to fade more quickly.
I also recommend keeping your candles in their original packaging or wrapping them in a soft cloth to protect them from dust and other environmental factors. This helps preserve the quality of the wax and the scent.
Use the Right Candle Accessories
In addition to proper storage and burning techniques, using the right candle accessories can also help extend the life of your candles. For example, a candle snuffer can be a great tool for extinguishing your candle without causing the wax to splatter or the wick to become too long.
You can also use a candle wick dipper to help keep the wick centered and trimmed, which can prevent uneven burning and tunneling.
Enjoy Your Candles Responsibly
At the end of the day, the key to making your candles last is to use them responsibly and with care. By following these tips, you can get the most out of your Calen candles and enjoy their beautiful scents and ambiance for longer.
Remember, candles should always be burned in a safe, well-ventilated area, and you should never leave a burning candle unattended. With a little bit of attention and care, your Calen candles can provide you with hours of cozy, relaxing enjoyment.
Key Takeaways:
- Trim the wick to 1/4 inch before each use to prevent uneven burning and sooting.
- Burn candles for 1-2 hours to allow the wax to melt to the edges, preventing tunneling.
- Store candles in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Use candle accessories like snuffers and wick dippers to help maintain the candle.
- Always burn candles responsibly and safely, and never leave them unattended.
By following these tips, you can help your Calen candles last longer and provide you with more enjoyment. Happy candle burning!
