Trim That Wick!
First things first—before you light your candle, grab a pair of scissors or wick trimmers and trim that wick! Ideally, the wick should be about 1/4 inch long. Why? This simple step prevents large flames and smoky messes, allowing your candle to burn evenly and last longer. Plus, no one wants a mini bonfire in their living room.
Safe Spaces Only!
Always place your candle on a stable, heat-resistant surface, far from flammable objects (we're talking curtains, books, and that pile of laundry you keep meaning to fold). Also remember, candles and drafts don’t mix. Avoid placing them near open windows or fans where a sudden gust could knock it over or cause uneven burning. Keep your candle away from children and pets!
Keep It In Sight!
Sure, candles are cozy, but they are like the toddlers of home décor—if you take your eyes off them for too long, something unexpected might happen! DON'T leave them unattended. Blowing out the candle if you’re leaving the room for more than a few minutes, is a great habit to get into. For extra safety, consider using a snuffer instead of blowing on the candle directly, avoiding those rogue wax splatters.
Mind the Melt Pool!
Let the candle burn long enough for the melted wax to reach the edges of the container. This helps prevent “tunneling” (when the wax burns straight down the middle, leaving a stubborn wax ring behind). A good rule of thumb is one hour of burn time for every inch of the candle's diameter.
The 4-Hour Rule!
Let your candle burn for about 2-4 hours at a time. This helps it burn down evenly and prevents tunneling. Plus, it gives you a nice excuse to pause, relax, and enjoy the glow.
With these easy tips, you can enjoy your candles with peace of mind—no singed curtains, smoky air, or unexpected emergencies in sight! Now go ahead, light up your space responsibly!
Xoxo ,Thalia