Your Shopping Bag is Empty
Gifting
Caring for your Candles
As we spend more time indoors, it’s the little things that can help boost our mood. The warm glow and soothing scent of a candle can definitely do just that, comforting and relaxing us.
Our homeware buyers have put together their top tips for candle care so you can enjoy an even greater candle experience and get your sense of smell tingling.
1. The first burn is the most important
Burn your candle for a minimum of 1 hour the first time. This will ensure the wax burns evenly and you can enjoy the wonderfully scented air.
By doing this, you will be avoiding a 'tunnelling' effect, whereby the wax sticks to the edges of your candle, but burns down in the middle. Wax will burn the same way over and over again, so you want to make sure that your first burn is even and satisfying, in order to make sure that future burns will be the same.
2. Keep it lit… but not for longer than 4 hours
After burning for 4 hours, candles should be extinguished, allowed to cool for two hours, and then trimmed before relighting. This is to prevent carbon from collecting on the wick, and causing it to 'mushroom'. If this happens, the flame can get too large and the wick can become unstable. This will ensure a longer lifespan for your candle, and more even burning.
3. Trim the wick after every burn
Before wick trimming, always extinguish the flame and let the candle come to room temperature. Then, trim the wick by 0.5cm before re-lighting. This will prevent soot from forming, and keep your candle clean and pretty.
It will also prolong your candle's life, as it ensures that the wax is distributed evenly and does not get drawn up the wick.
4. Consider the setting
Finding the perfect placement is key to enjoying the delightful scents. Ensure to place on a secure surface where the scent can fill the room. Doing so will maximise the effect of your candle, filling the room with a soothing scent, rather than having your candle lost in the corner.
5. Finally, upcycle your old candle jar
Give your candle new life when it’s finished burning. Simply pour hot water into the vessel to remove hardened wax, then wash with soapy water. You can then house pens, make up brushes or flowers there – anything your heart desires!
This is a great way to reduce waste and reuse simple things in your home, while also adding a touch of personality and uniqueness to any setting.