Candle Burning Guide: How to Burn Candles Safely & Make Them Last Longer
Candles add warmth, calm, and beauty to any space—but proper candle burning and care are essential for safety, performance, and longevity. At Mehrartcollections, our handmade candles are crafted with care, and following simple candle care tips helps you enjoy a clean, even burn while preserving their beauty.
This guide explains how to burn candles correctly and how to take care of candles for the best results.
Why Proper Candle Burning Matters
Correct candle burning prevents tunneling, reduces smoke, and ensures a longer-lasting candle. Proper care also enhances fragrance throw and keeps your candle looking beautiful throughout its life.
1. Trim the Wick Before Every Burn
Always trim the wick to about ¼ inch (6 mm) before lighting your candle.
Benefits of wick trimming:
- Prevents excess smoke
- Controls flame height
- Promotes even burning
This is one of the most important candle care steps.
2. Let the Wax Melt Evenly
On the first burn, allow the wax to melt all the way to the edges of the container. This prevents tunneling and ensures a smooth, even burn in future uses.
Rule of thumb: Burn for 1–3 hours depending on candle size.
3. Burn Candles on a Safe Surface
Place candles on a stable, heat-resistant surface away from drafts, curtains, and flammable items. Avoid placing candles near open windows or fans.
Safety first—especially with handmade candles.
4. Never Burn Candles Too Long
Do not burn a candle for more than 4 hours at a time. Over-burning can cause overheating and reduce the candle’s lifespan.
Allow the candle to cool before relighting.
5. Keep the Wax Pool Clean
Remove any debris, such as wick trimmings or dust, from the wax surface. Clean wax ensures a safe, consistent flame and prevents uneven burning.
6. Extinguish Candles Properly
Use a candle snuffer or gently dip the wick into the wax and straighten it back up. Avoid blowing out candles, which can cause smoke and wax splatter.
7. Stop Burning at the Right Time
Discontinue use when about ½ inch of wax remains at the bottom of the container. This prevents overheating and protects surfaces.
8. Store Candles Correctly
Store candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Proper storage helps maintain fragrance, color, and wax quality.
Candle Care Tips for Natural Wax Candles
Natural wax candles, such as soy or beeswax, benefit from extra care:
- Burn longer but cleaner
- Require proper wick trimming
- Perform best in draft-free spaces
Mehrartcollections candles are designed for clean, mindful burning when cared for properly.
Conclusion
Proper candle burning and care enhance both safety and enjoyment. By trimming the wick, allowing full wax melt, and burning responsibly, you extend the life of your candle while creating a calm, inviting atmosphere.
With the right care, your Mehrartcollections candle becomes more than décor—it becomes a lasting experience.
FAQ – Candle Burning & Care
How should I trim the wick before burning a candle?
Trim the wick to about ¼ inch (6 mm) before each burn. This prevents excess smoke, controls flame height, and ensures an even burn.
2. How long should I burn a candle each time?
Burn your candle for 1–3 hours per session, or until the wax melts evenly to the edges. Avoid burning for more than 4 hours at a time to prevent overheating.
3. How can I prevent tunneling in candles?
On the first burn, let the wax pool melt all the way to the edges of the container. This establishes an even burn and prevents tunneling in future uses.
4. Can I blow out my candle?
It’s better to use a candle snuffer or gently dip the wick into the wax and straighten it. Blowing out can cause smoke, soot, and wax splatter.
5. How much wax should remain before stopping burning?
Stop burning when about ½ inch of wax remains at the bottom of the container to prevent overheating and protect surfaces.
6. Where should I place my candle while burning?
Always place candles on a stable, heat-resistant surface away from drafts, curtains, and flammable objects. Avoid placing them near fans or open windows.
7. How should I store candles?
Store candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Proper storage helps maintain fragrance, color, and wax quality.
8. Are natural wax candles different from regular candles?
Yes. Natural wax candles, like soy or beeswax, burn cleaner, last longer, and perform best in draft-free spaces with proper wick trimming.
9. Can Mehrartcollections candles be burned safely indoors?
Yes. When following basic candle care tips—like trimming the wick, burning in safe areas, and avoiding drafts—Mehrartcollections handmade candles burn safely indoors.
10. How do I clean the wax pool?
Remove any wick trimmings, dust, or debris from the wax surface before each burn. This ensures a clean, even flame and safe candle use.