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Candles can create a warm and inviting atmosphere in any space, but to get the most out of your candles, it's important to know a few key tips and tricks. Whether you're dealing with tunneling, smoking, or just want to ensure safety, these tips will help you enjoy your candles to the fullest.
General Candle Safety Tips
1. Burn on a Non-Flammable Surface:
- Always place your candle on a stable, heat-resistant surface to avoid accidents.
2. Avoid Overhead Shelves:
- Don’t burn candles on a shelf with another shelf directly above it. The heat can damage the surface above and create a fire hazard.
3. Keep Away from Curtains and Furnishings:
- Place candles away from anything flammable like curtains, papers, or upholstered furniture.
4. Never Leave Unattended:
- Never leave a burning candle unattended, especially around pets and children.
5. Trim the Wick:
- Always keep the wick trimmed to about 1/4 inch.
6. Use Candle Snuffers:
- Use a candle snuffer to extinguish the flame rather than blowing it out. This reduces the risk of splattering hot wax.
7. Limit Burn Time:
- Avoid burning candles for more than 4 hours at a time. Extinguish the candle, let it cool for at least 2 hours, and trim the wick before relighting.
8. Avoid Burning Down to the Bottom:
- Stop using the candle when about 1/2 inch of wax remains. Burning a candle all the way down can cause the jar to overheat and possibly crack.
Correcting Candle Tunneling
Tunneling occurs when a candle burns down the center, leaving a ring of unmelted wax around the edges. Here’s how to fix it:
1. Aluminum Foil Method:
- Wrap a piece of aluminum foil around the top of the candle, leaving an opening at the center.
- Let the candle burn for a couple of hours. The foil helps the heat distribute evenly, melting the tunneled wax.
2. Long Burn Sessions:
- For new candles, ensure the first burn lasts long enough for the wax pool to reach the edges. This typically takes about 3-4 hours.
Correcting a Smoking Candle
A smoking candle can be due to various reasons, but here’s how to address it:
1. Trim the Wick:
- Always keep the wick trimmed to about 1/4 inch. A long wick can cause the candle to smoke.
2. Avoid Drafts:
- Keep candles away from vents, fans, and open windows. Drafts can cause the flame to flicker and produce smoke.
Repurposing Candle Jars into Drinking Glasses
Our candle jars are perfect for repurposing into stylish drinking glasses once the candle is finished. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Remove Excess Wax:
- Place the candle jar in the freezer for a few hours. This will cause the remaining wax to harden and shrink, making it easier to remove. Use a butter knife to gently pry out the wax pieces.
2. Remove the Wick Disc:
- Add a couple of centimeters of boiling water to the candle jar and let it soak for a few minutes. This will loosen the wick disc.
- Use a spoon to carefully remove the wick disc.
3. Clean the Jar:
- Scrape any excess glue from the bottom of the jar using a scourer and some citrus oil.
- Pop the jar in the dishwasher to give it a thorough clean.
Additional Tips
Candle Memory:
- Ensure the first burn is long enough to create a full melt pool to avoid tunneling in future burns.
Storage:
- Store candles in a cool, dark place to prevent fading and discoloration.
Avoid Debris:
- Keep the wax pool clear of wick trimmings, matches, and debris to prevent flaring and uneven burning.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your Australian- made alta candles burn cleanly, evenly, and safely, creating a beautiful ambience in your home. Plus, you can repurpose your candle jars into functional and decorative drinking glasses, adding an eco-friendly touch to your candle experience. Enjoy the warm glow and soothing scents of your perfectly maintained candles and embrace the wellness benefits they bring to your everyday life!
