We can all appreciate the finer things in life, and there’s no denying the allure of a beautifully crafted candle. To ensure you get the most out of your beloved candles, you’ll need to master the art of candle care. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps in extending their lifespan. This includes:
- Choosing a quality candle
- Pre-burning preparation
- Burn time and tunnelling
- Candle storage
Choosing a quality candle
Opting for high-quality candles made with premium materials not only enhances your overall candle experience but also ensures their longevity.
Superior candles use high-quality waxes that are renowned for their clean and slow-burning properties. They are also often infused with premium fragrances that last from the first light to the end of the candle’s life.
Pre-burning preparation
Before lighting your candle, it’s important to run through a few steps to optimise its burn and prolong its life. These include:
Trimming the wick
Using a pair of sharp scissors or a wick trimmer, gently trim the wick to approximately ¼ inch (6mm) in length. A shorter wick helps control the flame’s size, reduces smoke, and prevents the formation of black soot. By keeping the wick at the recommended length, you’ll achieve a cleaner and more even burn throughout the candle’s lifespan.
Cleaning the candle surface
Before lighting the candle, ensure the surface is clean and free from any debris, dust, or matchstick remnants. This not only helps in maintaining the candle’s aesthetic appeal but also ensures that the flame burns evenly and without any obstructions.
Level placement
Place your candle on a sturdy, heat-resistant surface that is level and secure. This prevents any accidental tipping or uneven melting of the wax, helping it last longer.
Burn time and tunnelling
Avoiding tunnelling is key to prolonging the life of your candle. Tunnelling occurs when the candle burns down the centre, leaving untouched wax along the sides. To prevent this, allow the candle to achieve a full melt pool during each burn. This means letting the wax melt all the way to the edges before extinguishing it.
Burning for around 4 hours means the entire surface of the candle is used, ensuring an even burn and maximising its burn time. This practice not only extends the lifespan of your candle but also enhances its fragrance, allowing you to enjoy its captivating glow and delightful aroma for many hours.
Candle storage
One of the most important ways of maintaining your candle’s quality is how you store it. This is influenced by a number of factors:
Sunlight protection
If your candle is coloured, sunlight can cause the wax and pigments to fade over time. To preserve their vibrant hues and prevent any discolouration, store your candles away from direct sunlight. Choose a cool, dark area in your home where they won’t be exposed to harsh UV rays.
Temperature
High temperatures can cause the wax to soften, bend, or even melt, while very low temperatures can make the wax brittle and affect the burn quality. Aim to store your candles in a moderate and consistent temperature environment, away from heating vents, fireplaces, or other sources of heat.
Air exposure
Candles are porous and can absorb surrounding odours if left exposed to the air for extended periods. To maintain their original fragrance, store candles in airtight containers or sealable bags.
Separate fragrances
If you have multiple scented candles, it’s best to store them separately or in their original packaging. This prevents fragrances from blending and ensures each candle maintains its unique scent profile. If you don’t have the original packaging, you can use resealable bags or wrapping them in aluminium foil, to further protect their fragrance integrity.
Caring for your candles
To get the most out of your favourite fragrances, it’s important to look after them. Candles need care, and no one cares more for candles than Charles Farris. With a rich heritage spanning over a century, Charles Farris candles are meticulously handcrafted using the finest ingredients. When you choose Charles Farris, you can enjoy rich, long-lasting scents that transform your home and your mood.
