Candles are all the hype right now—and for good reason! With the festive season approaching, candles will soon become a staple in your home more than ever.
Whether it's a beautifully scented candle or a simple wax light, knowing how to properly take care of a candle can enhance its lifespan and help you enjoy it to the fullest. Don’t forget to read till the end to know what kind of candles are trending at 10clubhomes this season!
In this guide, we’ll walk you through 5 essential candle care tips and tricks to ensure you get the most out of your candles. Follow these tips to extend the life of your candle, avoid wasting wax and keep your home safe!
TIP #1: Trim the wick before each use
Basic but important! Every time you light a candle, don't forget to trim the wick first. It's recommended to trim it down to ¼ inch (6 mm). Why should you do this?
- Trimming the wick reduces black smoke and keeps the candle jar clean.
- A shorter wick allows the candle to burn more evenly across the surface.
- A well-trimmed wick helps your candle last longer by avoiding quick, uneven burning.
- Keeps the flame steady and prevents it from dancing too wildly.
- Helps the wax melt all the way to the edges, preventing wasted wax.
TIP #2: Store it the right way
Did you know? There’s a proper way to store candles to make sure they last longer and keep their scent strong. Read on and see if you’re doing it right!
- Always store candles in a cool, dry place to prevent melting.
- Keep them in a dark area, away from direct light
- If it’s a scented candle, make sure the lid is securely closed to lock in the fragrance.
- Store candles upright to protect the wick and maintain shape.
- Avoid extreme temperatures—too hot or too cold—so the candle’s wax doesn’t warp or crack.
TIP #3 Allow the wax to melt evenly
The first burn of a candle is crucial for its overall life. Let the candle burn long enough for the wax to melt all the way across the surface, creating a full melt pool. The general rule is to burn your candle for at least 1 hour for every inch of its diameter during the first use. This prevents tunneling, where the candle burns down the center, leaving unused wax along the sides. How can you ensure this?
- Keep the wick trimmed to about ¼ inch (6 mm) before each use to promote an even burn.
- Keep the candle away from drafts, vents, or open windows to prevent uneven melting and tunneling.
- Use a container that is the appropriate size for the candle's diameter, allowing heat to distribute evenly.
- Place your candles in areas that are free from drafts, fans, or air conditioning vents. A draft can cause the candle to burn unevenly and produce more smoke. It can also lead to an unstable flame that might flicker excessively or even go out.
TIP #4 Keep away from the reach of children and pets
Candles are basically wax with a burning wick. While children get attracted to the flame - the sweet scents might also attract your pets to check it out and consider it food - consuming hot wax or burning themselves. How to prevent this?
- Place your candles out of reach.
- Never leave open flames unattended.
- Use a protective cover for your candle.
- Create a candle-safe zone.
- If your kids are old enough, educate them about candle safety
TIP #5 Post burn care
Blowing out your candle might seem like the easiest way to extinguish it, but this can cause hot wax to splash and release smoke. Instead, use a candle snuffer or simply dip the wick into the melted wax using a wick dipper or a tool like a paperclip. This helps avoid soot, smoke, and any splattering wax, preserving your candle’s clean burn. What else can you do once you are done using the candle?
- Clear any leftover wick trimmings or matches from the wax to avoid uneven burning and safety hazards.
- While the wax is still soft, gently push the wick back to the center to ensure an even burn in future uses.
- Place a lid or cover on your candle to keep dust and dirt from collecting on the surface when not in use.
- If it is scented, cover the candles and store it in a closed, dry space to preserve fragrance.
If you weren’t following the above steps already—now you know what to do with your candles! Light them worry-free and make them last throughout the festive season. Looking for candles that stand out at your party? Here’s a list of top-selling candles by 10clubhomes—the season’s bestsellers!
Shop best selling 2024 candle trends
Classic scented t-light candles
The traditional copper jar candle
Don’t just stop there! Pair these candles with classic or traditional holders and take your decor game up a notch. These elegant combos also make the perfect festive gifts for your friends and family. Celebrate in style with candles that truly shine this season!.
Pair them with candle holders
Compact candle holders - Lotus, octagon, fluted glass
Jaali candle holders
Traditional lanterns
With the above options, you’re sure to find something that matches your taste. Explore more products for every room in your home—no matter your budget or style, we’ve got something for every vibe!
Happy shopping.