How to care for a scented candle and prevent tunneling

Comment entretenir une bougie parfumée et éviter l’effet tunnel

In our home we light candles on grey days, from the morning, to feel cozy and warm. We also light them in the evening, after a long day, to slow down and relax. And sometimes, we light them to be carried away some place special – to a memory, an emotion, a happy moment.

Here are some tips to fully enjoy your candles and extend their lifespan.

 

First use

When lighting for the first time, let the candle burn long enough for the entire surface to become liquid. This usually takes 2 to 3 hours, depending on the size of the candle.

It's this melted wax that diffuses the scent: the more uniform the surface, the more fully the fragrance is released. If you don't let it burn long enough, a tunnel can form, limiting the diffusion of the fragrance and affecting the candle's lifespan.

 

While burning

- Do not let your candle burn for more than 3 to 4 hours at a time, depending on the size of the candle
- Avoid drafts, which can disturb the flame
- Place it on a stable, heat-resistant surface

Before each use

- Trim the wick to about 5 mm
- Remove any residue in the wax

A well-maintained wick allows for a stable, smoke-free flame, and avoids consuming more wax than necessary. Feel free to gently re-center the wick if the wax isn't melting symmetrically.

Depending on the wick type

Cotton wick
Simply trim it before each use for a clean and even burn. A wick trimmer facilitates the task, especially at the end of the candle's life when the wick becomes harder to reach. It is also very practical to safely trim the wick during burning.

Wooden wick
Gently snap of or trim the burnt part before relighting, leaving only a very short wick (about 3 mm). The shorter the wick, the more stable the flame will be. 

A few extra tips

- Extinguish your candle by smothering the flame to avoid smoke
- Close the lid once the wax has cooled to preserve the fragrance
- Never leave a burning candle unattended

 

By following these tips, you can enjoy your candle for as long as possible.

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