How to Care for Your Candle: A Little Light That Lasts
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1) The First Burn Matters
Your candle’s first burn sets the tone for every one that follows.
When lighting your candle for the very first time, allow it to burn for 1–2 hours or until the wax melts evenly across the entire surface—edge to edge. This creates a full melt pool.
A full melt pool helps prevent tunneling (wax building up on the sides of the jar), which shortens burn time and reduces fragrance throw. Think of the first burn as your candle’s foundation: a little patience now ensures a longer, cleaner, more even burn later.
Pro tip: If your space is chilly or drafty, give the candle a little extra time on the first burn so the surface reaches a full, even melt.
2) Trim Your Wick Before Each Burn (¼”)
Before every lighting, gently trim your wick to about ¼ inch (6–7 mm). This small step makes a big difference—it keeps the flame controlled, reduces soot, and prevents the wick from “mushrooming.”
Cotton wicks: Snip to ¼” before lighting.
Wood wicks: Pinch or trim to ⅛–¼” and remove loose char for a steady, cozy crackle.
Trimming helps your candle burn slower and cleaner, improving both safety and scent performance. (A dedicated wick trimmer makes this quick and easy. @kingandco.us)
3) Smart & Safe Burning
Burn on a heat-safe, level surface—away from drafts, curtains, and vents.
Keep away from children and pets and never leave a burning candle unattended.
Let wax cool and solidify between burns for best performance.
Stop burning when about ½ inch of wax remains in the jar.
For each session, aim for 2–4 hours at a time—enough for an even melt without overheating the jar.
Troubleshooting Quick Guide
Tunneling (wax rim on sides):
On the next burn, allow a full melt pool (edge to edge). Avoid short burns early on.
Large flame or soot:
Trim the wick to ¼” before lighting and keep away from drafts.
Weak scent throw:
Let a full melt pool develop; reduce airflow that disperses fragrance.
Wood wick keeps going out:
Trim to ⅛–¼” and remove char before relighting; ensure the first burn reached a full melt pool.
Care Essentials
A few simple tools make candle care effortless:
Wick Trimmer for a clean ¼” trim every time.
Wick Snuffer to extinguish gently and reduce smoke.
Candle Tray to protect furniture and stabilize the jar.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I burn my candle each time?
Aim for 2–4 hours per session. That’s usually enough time to achieve a full melt pool without overheating the jar.
Why is trimming to ¼” so important?
A shorter wick keeps the flame stable and prevents excess soot or mushrooming. It helps your candle burn cleaner and last longer.
Do wood wicks need different care?
Wood wicks like to be kept short. Trim to ⅛–¼” and remove loose char before lighting to encourage a steady crackle and even burn.
Keep the Glow Going
Explore our newest arrivals, and handcrafted home fragrance collections designed to bring light and warmth into every room.
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Candles are more than fragrance—they’re moments of reflection, peace, and welcome. By taking a few extra steps in caring for your candle, you help that light last longer and shine brighter in your home.
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
— Matthew 5:16
