101 Essential Candle Tips for the Perfect Burn

Hello Candle lovers! 

Since the first blog post was all about souvenirs on the national wedding planner day, I will continue with was meant to be the first post...101 BASICS! 

Candles are more than just a source of light; they can create ambiance, provide soothing scents, and even act as decor pieces. But to get the most out of your candles, there are a few rules to follow, such as the "8:10 rule" and others that enhance the longevity and effectiveness of your candles. In this blog post, we’ll explore the key candle care tips to ensure you get the perfect burn every time.

1. The 8:10 Rule – Why it Matters

The 8:10 rule is one of the most well-known guidelines for candle burning. It suggests that you should burn your candle for a minimum of 1 hour per inch of the candle’s diameter (hence the 8:10 rule). This ensures that the wax melts evenly across the surface and prevents tunneling, which is when the candle burns down the middle, leaving a ring of unmelted wax along the sides.

• Why it works: Burning your candle for an appropriate time allows the wax to fully melt across the entire top surface, which makes it burn more efficiently and evenly, maximizing the life of the candle.
• Example: If your candle has a diameter of 3 inches, aim to burn it for about 3 hours.

2. Trim Your Wick Before Each Burn

One simple rule that often gets overlooked is trimming the wick before lighting your candle. Aim to trim the wick to 1/4 inch each time before lighting it. This helps in preventing large flames, excessive soot, and uneven burning.

• Why it works: A trimmed wick allows for a controlled, steady burn and reduces the risk of carbon buildup on the wick, which can cause smoke or an uneven flame.

3. The First Burn is Key

Your first burn is critical in setting the stage for the rest of the candle's life. Always allow the wax to melt all the way to the edges during the first burn, even if that means burning it longer than usual.

• Why it works: This helps prevent tunneling from the beginning and ensures that your candle will burn evenly for its entire life.

4. Avoid Drafts

Candles should always be burned in a location free from drafts, whether it's an air conditioner, ceiling fan, or an open window. Drafts can cause your candle to burn unevenly and lead to flickering or excessive smoke.

• Why it works: A draft can alter the burn rate, causing your candle to waste wax and burn out faster.

5. Don’t Burn a Candle for Too Long

As much as it’s important to allow a candle to burn long enough to melt all the wax evenly, you also don’t want to burn it for too long. Typically, 4 hours is the maximum amount of time a candle should be left burning in one sitting.

• Why it works: Burning a candle for too long can overheat the container, which may damage the candle’s structure or create a fire hazard. It also reduces the overall burn time.

6. Extinguish the Flame Properly

Instead of blowing out your candle, use a wick dipper or a snuffer to extinguish the flame. Blowing on the candle can cause hot wax to splatter and produce smoke that can affect the candle’s fragrance.

• Why it works: Using a wick dipper or snuffer ensures that the flame is put out without any mess or smoke.

7. Store Candles Properly

To extend the life of your candles, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Heat and sunlight can cause the wax to fade in color and scent.

• Why it works: Storing candles properly keeps the wax intact and ensures the fragrance remains strong for a longer period.

8. Be Mindful of the Environment

When burning candles, make sure you place them on a heat-resistant surface, away from flammable objects, and never leave a candle unattended.

• Why it works: This is a safety precaution that can prevent accidents and ensure safe candle burning.

Candles are a simple yet effective way to enhance the atmosphere of any space, but proper care and attention are essential to maximize their lifespan and safety. Following the 8:10 rule and other important tips can make all the difference in ensuring your candles burn evenly, safely, and beautifully. Happy candle burning!