Candles are not just sources of light; they are mood-setters, aromatherapy aids, and decorative accents that bring warmth and elegance to any space. To ensure your candles burn beautifully and last longer, proper care is essential. In this guide, we’ll explore some simple candle care tips and delve into why wick build-up happens and how to manage it.
Candle Care Basics
Trim the Wick
Before lighting your candle, always trim the wick to ¼ inch. This minimizes smoke, ensures a cleaner burn, and helps prevent uneven melting or tunneling.
Let It Burn Evenly
The first burn sets the stage for the life of your candle. Allow the wax to melt completely across the surface to avoid tunneling—a condition where only the center burns, leaving wax stuck around the edges.
Avoid Drafts
Keep your candle away from fans, air conditioners, and open windows. Drafts cause uneven burns and can lead to excessive smoke.
Use a Candle Snuffer
Instead of blowing out your candle, use a snuffer to extinguish the flame. This reduces the risk of splattered wax and minimizes smoke. A snuffer can also be used with the lid provided to safely extinguish the flame.
Store Properly
Store candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading or warping.
Why Does Wick Build-Up Happen?
Wick build-up, often called “mushrooming,” is the formation of a carbon cap at the tip of the wick. While it might look unsightly, it’s a common occurrence caused by incomplete combustion. Here’s why it happens:
Type of Wax and Fragrance Oils
Heavily fragranced candles or those made with softer waxes like soy may cause more soot and residue to collect on the wick.
Wick Size
A wick that is too large for the candle can draw excessive wax, leading to mushrooming.
Burn Duration
Burning a candle for extended periods can cause the wick to mushroom as it struggles to keep up with the melting wax.
How to Manage Wick Build-Up
Trim the Wick Regularly
After the candle has cooled, use a wick trimmer or scissors to remove the carbon build-up. This prevents excessive soot and ensures a cleaner burn.
Burn for Recommended Time
Avoid burning your candle for more than 3-4 hours at a time. This helps maintain the wick’s integrity and minimizes mushrooming.
Properly Clean the Wick
If build-up occurs, wait until the candle cools completely. Gently pinch off the mushroomed carbon tip using a tissue or your fingers (ensure they are clean and dry). Alternatively, use a wick trimmer to neatly cut off the excess build-up.
Choose High-Quality Candles
Premium candles often have carefully selected wicks and wax formulations that reduce the chances of mushrooming.
A Note on Safety
Always follow basic safety precautions when burning candles:
Never leave a burning candle unattended.
Keep candles out of reach of children and pets.
Place candles on a stable, heat-resistant surface away from flammable objects.
Taking the time to care for your Phoebe Roe Beverly Hills candles ensures you enjoy their beauty and benefits to the fullest. With regular maintenance and a little know-how, you can keep your candles burning cleanly and your spaces glowing with ambiance.
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