When it comes to enjoying your candle, a little care goes a long way. It's not just about lighting it and letting it do its thing. How you burn your candle actually makes a big difference. If you want your candle to last longer, smell stronger, and burn cleaner, there are a few basics you need to know.
Here’s how to take care of your candle like a pro:
Read the Label (Seriously) and our candle care card
Every candle comes with a warning label for a reason. It’s not just fine print—those tips are there to keep you safe. Always follow the instructions on the bottom of your candle, especially when it comes to how and where you burn it.
Safety First
Never leave a burning candle unattended, and always keep it away from kids, pets, and anything flammable. Candles and open drafts (like a cracked window or a fan) aren’t a good mix either. And trust me, the vessel gets hot, so don't move your candle while it’s burning or if the wax is still liquid.
Burn Smarter, Not Longer
It’s tempting to keep your candle going all day, but for the best (and safest) experience, don't burn your candle for more than 4 hours at a time. After 4 hours, the wick can start to "mushroom" and create soot, which impacts both the scent and the burn.
Always Burn on Heat-Resistant Surfaces
It’s a simple thing, but important. Make sure you're placing your candle on a sturdy, heat-resistant surface to avoid any accidents or damage.
Keep That Lid Handy
When you're not using your candle, pop the lid back on. It keeps dust and debris out and helps preserve the scent so your candle smells just as good next time you light it.
Fun Fact: Wax Has a Memory
The very first time you light your candle is more important than you might think. Wax has something called “memory.” If you don't let the wax melt all the way to the edges on the first burn, your candle can tunnel, leaving wasted wax along the sides of the jar.
To set a strong memory burn, let your candle burn for 3–4 hours the first time (or until the surface is fully melted edge-to-edge). It’ll pay off later with a stronger scent throw and a longer-lasting candle.
Wick Care Matters Too
Before every burn, trim your wick to about 1/4 inch. It helps control the flame, reduces soot, and keeps your candle burning evenly. Plus, it’ll keep your jar looking clean.
When to Say Goodbye
As much as we all want to get every last bit of scent, you should stop burning your candle once there's only about 1/2 inch of wax left. Burning beyond that can overheat the jar and isn’t safe. P.S. You can reuse your vessels.
Ready to stock up on candles you’ll actually want to take care of?
Candle Care 101: How to Get the Most Out of Your Candle
