How to make your candles last longer

How to Make Your Candles Last Longer: Candle Burning Tips

Candles are a wonderful way to add warmth, ambiance, and fragrance to any space. To get the most out of your candles, it’s important to know how to properly care for them. Here are some practical tips to help you make your candles last longer and ensure an even, clean burn every time.

1. Trim the Wick

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to extend the life of your candle is by trimming the wick. Before each burn, use a wick trimmer or scissors to trim the wick to about ¼ inch. A properly trimmed wick prevents excessive soot, ensures a steady flame, and reduces the risk of uneven burning.

2. Allow the Wax to Pool

On your first burn, let the candle burn long enough for the entire surface of the wax to melt and form a full melt pool. This helps prevent “tunneling,” which is when a candle burns straight down the middle, leaving wasted wax along the sides. Generally, a candle should burn for one hour per inch of its diameter to achieve a full melt pool.

3. Avoid Drafts

Candles burn best in a stable environment. Keep them away from open windows, fans, air vents, or other sources of drafts. A draft can cause the flame to flicker, leading to uneven burning and excess soot buildup.

4. Burn for the Right Amount of Time

Avoid burning your candle for too short or too long. Burning a candle for less than one hour may not allow a full melt pool to form, while burning it for more than four hours can overheat the wax. Overheating may cause the wick to mushroom, which can result in a smoky burn and wasted wax.

5. Use a Snuffer to Extinguish the Flame

Blowing out a candle can cause the wax to splash and create smoke. Instead, use a candle snuffer to extinguish the flame cleanly and safely. This not only prevents mess but also helps maintain the candle’s quality.

6. Store Candles Properly

When not in use, store your candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Excessive heat can cause the wax to soften or discolor, while exposure to sunlight may fade the candle’s color and scent.

7. Repurpose Your Candle Jars

Once your candle has burned down to about ½ inch of wax, it’s time to stop using it. Burning a candle beyond this point can overheat the container. Instead, clean out the remaining wax and reuse the jar as a decorative container or storage solution.

8. Invest in Quality Candles

High-quality candles, like the handmade soy candles from Smell Good Candles, are designed to burn more evenly and last longer than cheaper alternatives. Our soy wax candles are eco-friendly and crafted to give you the best burn experience, every time.

Conclusion

By following these simple tips, you can maximize the lifespan of your candles and enjoy their cozy glow and delightful fragrance for longer. Whether you’re relaxing after a long day or setting the mood for a special occasion, proper candle care ensures you get the most out of your investment.

Ready to stock up on premium candles? Explore our collection at Smell Good Candles and find your next favorite scent!