Candle Burning 101: Tips to Make Your Candles Last

Candle Care Tips: How to Get the Most Out of Your Candles
By J | F Candle Co.

There’s nothing quite like the warm glow and soothing scent of a beautifully crafted candle. Whether you're unwinding after a long day or setting the mood for a cozy evening, candles add comfort and calm to any space. To help you enjoy your candles safely and get the most out of them, here are our top candle care tips.

1. Trim the Wick Before Every Burn

Before lighting your candle, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch. This helps:

• Reduce smoke and soot

• Promote an even, clean burn

• Extend the life of your candle

Use a wick trimmer, scissors, or even better—our Candle Care Kit, which includes all the essentials to care for your candles like a pro.

2. Let It Burn Long Enough

The first burn is the most important! Allow your candle to burn until the entire top layer of wax is melted. This prevents tunneling and ensures even burning going forward.
Tip: Burn one hour for every inch in diameter (e.g., a 3-inch candle = 3 hours).

3. Don’t Burn for Too Long

Keep your candle burning no longer than 3–4 hours at a time. Prolonged burns can:

• Cause the wick to mushroom

• Create an unstable flame

• Diminish fragrance quality over time

4. Keep the Wax Pool Clean

Be sure to remove any debris such as wick trimmings or matches from the wax pool. Leftover debris can act as a secondary wick and may cause the candle to burn unevenly or too hot.

5. Extinguish with Care

Avoid blowing out your candle, which can cause smoke and splatter. Instead:

• Use a candle snuffer

• Or use the wick dipper from our Candle Care Kit to gently dip the wick into the wax and lift it back up—this helps prevent smoking and keeps the wick primed for next time.

6. Burn in a Safe Area

Always place your candle on a stable, heat-resistant surface. Keep away from drafts, pets, children, and flammable materials. Never leave a burning candle unattended.

7. Store Candles Smartly

Store candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This prevents the wax from softening, discoloring, or losing scent.

Bonus: Know When It’s Time to Say Goodbye

When about 1/2 inch of wax remains at the bottom, it’s time to stop burning. Continuing beyond this point can overheat the container and pose safety risks. Clean out the jar and repurpose it for makeup brushes, plants, or desk storage!

Upgrade Your Candle Ritual

Our 4-in-1 Candle Care Kit includes a wick trimmer, snuffer, wick dipper, and a sleek storage tray—everything you need to care for your candles and elevate your experience.

Final Thoughts
Candle care isn’t just about safety—it’s about making your candles last longer, smell stronger, and burn better. With just a few easy steps and the right tools, you can enjoy every flicker to the fullest.

Explore our full line of handcrafted candles and accessories at jfcandleco.com