Candles are a beautiful way to add ambience to any room in your home. Not only do they make a space feel warmer and more inviting, but they can also be used to create a specific mood or atmosphere. However, one downside of candles is that they often don’t last very long. So, we’ve compiled some tips for people who want to make their everyday candles last much longer.
Go Long or Not At All
When it comes to burning candles, the old adage “go long or not at all” applies. This means that it’s important to light your candle for an extended period so that it has a chance to melt and release the fragrance. If you light a candle for only a few minutes at a time, the wax will remain in the jar and you won’t get to enjoy the full benefits of the candle. Generally, a candle should be lit for at least an hour at a time to ensure that the wax melts down.
If you only burn your candle for a few minutes, you will experience what’s called a “memory ring”. This happens when a candle burns in such a way that the wax is not evenly distributed and only melts down in the area that’s closest to the wick (tunnelling). This ring will stay in place and prevent the wax from melting further down, meaning you won’t get to enjoy the full benefits of your candle. To avoid this, burn the candle for at least an hour at a time and break up any memory rings that occur.
Keep the Wick Trimmed
When lighting your candle, it’s a good idea to trim the wick before ignition. This will ensure that your flame is not too large and that the wax melts evenly. It’s recommended to trim the wick to 1/4 inch every time before you light it. Without trimming, the wick can grow too long and cause the “tunnelling” or “mushrooming” effect, leading to an uneven burn.
Don’t Relight Too Quickly
Furthermore, if you extinguish your candle, it’s best to wait about 30 minutes before relighting it. This allows the wax and wick to cool down and allows the wax to harden which prevents the flame from drowning in hot liquid wax. If you relight too quickly, the wax can melt unevenly and cause the tunnelling effect once again.
Keep Candles Away From Drafts
Wherever you choose to place your candle, it’s important to be mindful of any drafts in the room. Drafts can cause candles to burn faster and unevenly. A quick fix for this situation is to create a makeshift barrier that will protect the flame from strong air currents. Alternatively, you can move the candle to another area of your home where there are no drafts.
Buy a Large Candle
Although it sounds obvious, many people tend to buy candles that are too small for their desired space. This will cause the candle to burn faster and you will be left disappointed. It’s always best to buy a larger candle than necessary, as it will last longer and provide you with more value. With extra-large candles made in Australia, you can find the perfect size to fit your needs.
All in all, if you take the time to follow these simple tips, your candles will last much longer. Not only will this save you money in the long-run, but it will also create a much more pleasant and inviting atmosphere in your home. Enjoy!
