Candle Care Guide for Shaped and Container Candles

General Candle Care Tips

  1. Trim the Wick:

    • Before lighting, trim the wick to 1/4 inch (6 mm). This reduces soot, ensures an even burn, and prevents excessive flickering.

  2. Burn Time:

    • For container candles, allow the candle to burn until the melted wax reaches the edges of the container (usually 1–4 hours). This prevents tunneling and maximizes the candle's lifespan.

    • For shaped candles, let them burn for shorter intervals (around 1–2 hours) to maintain their shape.

  3. Keep Away from Drafts:

    • Drafts cause uneven burning, dripping, and excessive flickering. Place candles in a stable, draft-free area.

  4. Avoid Overburning:

    • Do not burn any candle for more than 4 hours at a time. This prevents overheating and ensures safety.

Tips for Shaped Candles

  1. Use a Candle Plate or Tray:

    • Always place shaped candles on a heat-resistant surface to catch any wax drips.

  2. Maintain Aesthetic Value:

    • Light the candle sparingly to preserve its decorative shape. Alternatively, use shaped candles as decor pieces and enjoy their fragrance without burning them.

  3. Protect from Sunlight:

    • Direct sunlight can cause discoloration or melting of shaped candles. Store them in a cool, dry place.

Tips for Container Candles

  1. Avoid Candle Tunneling:

    • The first burn is crucial! Let the candle burn long enough to melt the wax across the entire surface. A full melt pool prevents tunneling (a hollowed center with unused wax along the edges).

  2. Reclaim a Tunneling Candle:

    • Wrap the top of the candle in aluminum foil, leaving an opening for the wick. Burn it for an hour or two to even out the wax surface.

  3. Monitor the Wax Level:

    • Discontinue use when only 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) of wax remains. Burning the candle to the bottom can cause the container to overheat or crack.

Safety Reminders

  1. Never Leave a Candle Unattended:
    Always extinguish candles before leaving the room or going to sleep.

  2. Keep Away from Flammable Materials:
    Place candles at least 12 inches (30 cm) away from curtains, papers, and other flammable items.

  3. Use Proper Tools:
    Extinguish candles with a snuffer to prevent hot wax splatter and smoke.

  4. Keep Out of Reach of Children and Pets:
    Ensure candles are placed in secure areas inaccessible to little hands or paws.