A better burn,
from first light.
A few small habits help a container candle burn more evenly. The instructions supplied with your candle always come first.
Six habits for a safer burn.
Start clean, keep the candle within sight and stop if the flame no longer looks steady.
- 01
Before lighting
Check the candle's own instructions. Trim the wick to about 6 mm unless the label says otherwise, and remove matches, wick pieces or other debris from the wax.
- 02
Place it well
Use a stable, heat-resistant surface, away from anything that can catch fire. Keep the candle away from draughts, children and pets.
- 03
Give the first burn time
Let the melt pool develop toward the edge of the vessel, without exceeding the maximum burn time on the candle's label. This helps reduce tunnelling.
- 04
Keep it in sight
Never leave a burning candle unattended. Do not touch or move the vessel while the candle is burning or the wax is liquid.
- 05
Know when to pause
Extinguish the candle if the flame becomes unusually high, flickers repeatedly or smokes. Let the wax and vessel cool completely before trimming or relighting.
- 06
Extinguish carefully
Use a candle snuffer if available. Never use water: it can splatter hot wax and may damage a glass vessel. Check that the flame and wick glow are fully out.
Between burns.
Once the candle is completely cool, trim away the carbon at the tip of the wick and clear the wax surface. Store the candle upright in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and dust.
Sources
Care and safety guidance adapted from the National Candle Association’s burning guide and US Consumer Product Safety Commission candle advice. Always follow the manufacturer’s label.