Candle Care 101: Tips for Making Your Candles Last Longer & Burn Evenly
Candles are more than just a source of light—they create ambiance, fill the air with comforting fragrances, and add a touch of elegance to your space. But to get the most out of your candles, it’s important to take good care of them. As a candle maker, I’ve learned a lot about the best ways to ensure a clean, long-lasting burn and an even scent throw. Here are my top candle care tips to help you enjoy your MOC Home candles to the fullest.
1. Trim the Wick Before Every Burn
One of the most important aspects of candle care is trimming the wick. A long or uneven wick can cause your candle to burn too quickly, create excess soot, or even lead to an uneven burn. To keep your candle burning cleanly and safely, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch before each burn. This ensures a steady, controlled flame and helps prevent the dreaded soot buildup.
Pro Tip: A wick trimmer is a great tool to keep handy for this job, but scissors will work just as well!
2. The First Burn is Crucial
The first burn of your candle is incredibly important. When lighting your candle for the first time, allow it to burn long enough for the entire surface of the wax to melt, creating a full melt pool. This will help prevent tunneling (when the wax burns down the middle and leaves a ring of unused wax around the edges).
Aim to burn your candle for at least 2-3 hours on the first use, or until the wax pool reaches the edge of the jar. This ensures an even burn throughout the life of the candle.
3. Avoid Candle Tunneling
Tunneling can be a frustrating issue where the candle burns down the middle, leaving unused wax on the sides. To avoid this, never burn your candle for less than 1-2 hours at a time. If you only burn a candle for a short period, it won’t have enough time to form a full melt pool, and you’ll end up with an uneven burn.
Tip: If you notice tunneling, you can fix it by letting the candle burn for a longer period, and even using a hair dryer to gently melt the sides of the candle to make it more even.
4. Choose the Right Spot to Burn Your Candle
Where you burn your candles matters. To help your candle burn evenly, place it on a flat surface away from drafts, fans, or open windows. A breeze can cause the flame to flicker and burn unevenly, shortening the candle's lifespan and disrupting the fragrance throw.
Also, make sure the area is clear of anything flammable. Safety first, always!
5. Proper Candle Storage
When your candles are not in use, store them in a cool, dry place. Keep them away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent the wax from melting prematurely or the fragrance from dissipating. Storing your candles properly helps maintain the fragrance and appearance of the wax for a longer time.
Tip: You can store your candles in a beautiful box or on a shelf to add a decorative touch to your space!
6. How to Extinguish a Candle Safely
When it’s time to put your candle out, don’t blow it out! Blowing can cause the wax to splatter and can even lead to smoky, sooty residue on your candle. Instead, use a candle snuffer to extinguish the flame safely. A snuffer helps you avoid the mess while also ensuring the wick doesn’t stay hot for too long.
Tip: If you don’t have a snuffer, gently dip the wick into the melted wax using a wick dipper to extinguish the flame.
7. Enjoy Your Candle to the Fullest
The best part of a well-cared-for candle is the atmosphere it creates. Whether you’re relaxing after a long day, setting the mood for a cozy evening, or adding a warm fragrance to your space, your MOC Home candle will bring a sense of calm and beauty to your home. By following these simple tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your candles for longer and get the best performance from them.
Conclusion
Your candles deserve the best care to ensure they last and provide the most enjoyment. By trimming the wick, burning it long enough on the first use, storing it properly, and extinguishing it the right way, you can get the most out of every candle. Follow these tips, and your MOC Home candles will keep filling your home with warmth, light, and beautiful fragrance.
Don't forget we can help you with our slick black Candle Care Kit
Happy burning!