Growing up, there was a special place in our home for candles. We called it the Candle Cupboard, and it was filled with candles of every kind. It is from this ever growing collection that we were joyfully greeted by full shelves of glass jars, old holiday tins, short cylinders and oblong bowls, tall slender candle sticks and little round tealights. Which ones would make their way out of the cupboard next?
We still love our candle cupboards. We have not only the excitement of pulling a new jar from the shelves but also the perfect storage place for our candles that is cool, dark and dry. Of course, proper storage is only one part to getting the most out of a candle. We want you to enjoy your candles and experience each fragrance to its fullest strength as much as we do. We have gathered together some best practices when it comes to caring for your candles and ensuring the best burn and longest life, whether burning one of our Classic Mason Jar Candles or Vintage Vessels.
How to Extend the Life of Your Candle
- Store properly
- Trim the wick
- Adhere to first burn length time
- Use a candle snuffer
- Use the cover
- Know when to stop burning
Store in a Cool, Dark, Dry Space
This is one reason we love our candle cupboards! Candles last longer when properly stored. Storing candles when not in use, such as when swapping out scents for the season or if not yet ready to burn, can help preserve the scent, color and life of the candle. Exposure to sunlight can impact the color of all-natural soy wax. Store your candles in a cupboard, closet or shelving unit that is dark, dry and cool to get the most life from your candle.
Trim the Wick
Before each time you burn your candle, trim the wick 1/4". Trimming prevents the creation of a "mushroom wick" and allows your candle to burn cleanly.
Burn Your Candle for at Least 3 Hours
The first time you burn your candle, allow it to burn for at least 3 hours, and make sure the wax has melted all the way to the sides of the jar. Allowing the top layer of wax to melt fully to the edge prevents tunneling or formation of a "memory ring". However, do not allow your candle to burn for longer than 4 hours, as this can cause the wick to "mushroom". A proper first burn can ensure that your candle burns evenly!
Use a Candle Snuffer or Wick Dipper to Extinguish the Candle Flame
Properly extinguishing a candle's flame can help to preserve its quality. Prevent hot wax splatter and reduce smoke by using a candle snuffer or wick dipper. Using the appropriate tools to extinguish a candle stops debris from falling into the melted wax while also protecting the wick.
Cover Your Candle When Not in Use
When not burning your candle, it is a good practice to keep the cover on. Placing the cover on your candle when not in use helps to extend the length and strength of the scent. Keeping a non-burning candle covered when not in use also prevents dust from settling on the top of the wax and keeps your candle clean.
Stop Burning Your Candle When Only a 1/2 Inch of Solid Wax Remains
To avoid the candle jar overheating, it is best to discontinue burning your candle when a 1/2 inch of solid wax remains in the jar. Burning to the bottom could cause damage to the candle vessel or the surface where it is placed and can become a safety concern. You can learn more about how to burn your candle safely by reading our candle safety guidelines. If you truly want to get the most out the last bit of candle wax, try the auto-shut off candle warmer. Our wax melt collection is also a great alternative to open flame candles to bring your favorite fragrances to your home.
Taking proper care of your candle can extend its life and allow you to enjoy each burn fully, from the first to last.
Burned through your candle? Read about how you can clean and repurpose your old candle jars around your home, including for DIY projects, storage containers or rustic home accents.
