Scented candles create a warm and pleasant atmosphere, but to fully enjoy their fragrance and extend their lifespan, it is essential to maintain them properly. Here are some simple but effective tips to maximize the lifespan of your scented candles and ensure optimal diffusion.
1. Trim the wick before each use
One of the most important steps to maintain your scented candles is to trim the wick before each use. A wick that is too long can cause the flame to be too large, which can affect the combustion and quality of the candle. To obtain a stable flame and a fragrance that is diffused evenly, it is recommended to trim the wick to about 5 millimeters and recenter it with pliers, if necessary, before each lighting.
This also helps reduce sooting and prevents the candle from getting too hot. Use a wick trimmer for a clean and precise result.
2. Burn the candle long enough
A scented candle should be burned for a sufficient period of time to ensure an even burn. If you extinguish it too early, you risk creating a tunnel, where the wax melts only around the wick, leaving the rest of the candle intact. This phenomenon can reduce the life of your candle.
It is important to burn your candle until the entire surface is liquid each time you use it. This allows the wax to melt evenly to the edges of the container, optimizing the use of the candle.
❗️ It is advisable not to exceed 1 to 2 hours of burning (depending on the size of your candle) after the formation of the "pool", to avoid the container becoming too hot, causing the wax to overheat which results in the candle being consumed more quickly.
3. Avoid drafts
When lighting your candle, place it in a draft-free area. Winds can disturb the flame, causing an uneven burn and can also lead to soot. Additionally, drafts can shorten the life of the candle and diminish the intensity of the scent.
So avoid placing your candles near open windows, fans or other sources of wind.
4. Extinguish the candle properly
To avoid damaging the candle, extinguish it properly using a candle snuffer. This will prevent smoke and a burning smell that will spoil the scent. Blowing on it can cause the wax to melt unevenly and create a buildup of soot around the wick.
Using a candle snuffer is a simple and effective way to preserve the life of your candle and keep the environment smoke-free and fragrant.
5. Protect the candle when not in use
When not burning your candle, be sure to protect it from dust and dirt. Always leave the lid on or use a candle cover if available. This will prevent debris or dust from falling into the wax and affecting future burning.
Additionally, storing your candles in a cool, dry place will prevent the wax from warping or becoming less fragrant over time.