7 Essential Candle Care Tips for a Cleaner, Longer Burn

Whether you're a candle enthusiast or just starting to appreciate the ambiance they bring to a room, proper candle care is essential for a cleaner and longer burn. Here are 10 expert tips to help you get the most out of your candles

1. Trim the Wick

Before lighting your candle, always trim the wick to about 1/4 inch. This prevents smoking, reduces soot, and helps your candle burn evenly from the start.

2. Let It Pool

Allow the candle to burn long enough to create a full melt pool across the top layer of wax. This prevents tunneling and ensures your candle burns evenly each time.

3. Avoid Drafts

Keep candles away from windows, fans, and vents. Drafts can cause uneven flames, excessive smoking, and soot buildup.

4. Use a Snuffer

Blowing out candles can cause splattering and wick misalignment. Instead, use a candle snuffer to gently extinguish the flame for a cleaner, safer finish.

5. Rotate Regularly

If you notice uneven burning, try rotating your candle every few hours. This helps distribute heat more evenly and ensures consistent fragrance release.

6. Store Properly

When not in use, store candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This helps preserve their fragrance, color, and wax quality.

7. Avoid Over-burning

Never burn a candle for more than 3–4 hours at a time. Over-burning can cause the container to overheat and shorten the candle’s overall lifespan.

With just a little care, your candles can last longer, burn cleaner, and bring even more warmth and comfort to your home. Treat them well, and they’ll keep rewarding you with cozy light and beautiful fragrance.