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Candle Care 101: A Comprehensive Guide to Looking After Your Candle - Scent + Sprout

Candle Care 101: A Comprehensive Guide to Looking After Your Candle

Making the most of your candle and ensuring a safe, consistent burn it is essential to properly care for your candle. In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps to help and extend the life of your candle. 

Making the most of your candle and ensuring a safe, consistent burn it is essential to properly care for your candle. In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps to help and extend the life of your candle. 

1. Choosing the Right Location: Select a level, heat-resistant surface away from drafts. Ensure the candle is placed on a non-flammable surface.

2. The First Burn Matters: When you light your candle for the first time, allow it to burn until the entire surface melts evenly. This prevents tunneling and sets the stage for an even burn throughout its life.

3. Trimming the Wick: Before each lighting, trim the wick to around 1/4 inch to prevent excessive smoke and uneven burning. Long wicks can create a larger, unstable flame, leading to soot buildup.

4. Avoid Drafts: Drafts can cause uneven burning and excessive flickering. Place candles away from open windows, air conditioning, and fans.

5. Patience is a Virtue: Let your candle burn for at least 1-2 hours each time. This prevents the dreaded tunneling effect and maximizes the fragrance throw.

6. Extinguish Carefully: Use a candle snuffer or gently blow out the flame to minimize smoke. This prevents hot wax from splattering and extends the life of your wick.

7. Avoid Overextending: Never burn a candle for more than 4 hours at a time. Excessive heat can compromise the candle's structural integrity and diminish its scent.

8. Storing Safely: When not in use, cover your candle to protect it from dust and debris. Store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

9. Repurposing Container Candles: Once the candle has burned to the bottom, repurpose the container. Freeze the container to easily remove leftover wax and wick. Clean it thoroughly before using it for storage or decoration.

10. Candle Snuffers and Tools: Invest in candle accessories like snuffers and wick trimmers. These tools not only make the process safer but also prolong the life of your candle.