Hey there candle lovers! Let's talk about something we've all experienced before – the disappointment of buying a candle that falls short of expectations. It's frustrating, and it's easy to blame the business you bought it from. But before you throw out the candle or the company, let's talk about something important – candle care.
As a small business owner myself, I can tell you that most of us are not here to make millions. We're here to make quality, long-lasting candles and give our customers an unforgettable experience. And with the right care, you can enjoy your candles to the fullest and get the most out of your money.
So, here are some essential tips on how to care for your candles and ensure they shine above the rest.
Firstly, trim the wick! Before each burn, trim the wick to 7mm to prevent soot, smoke, and high flames. This step ensures a cleaner burn and safety. I'll be honest; I didn't know about this before starting The Whitfeld Manor. But now, it's the first thing I do before every burn.
Next, burn time matters! Allow your candle to burn for at least 2 hours on the first burn or until the entire surface melts to prevent tunneling. Otherwise, it looks like a gaping tunneling hole down the middle of your candle, and it's not cute. Avoid burning for more than 4 hours at a time to prevent overheating.
Thirdly, keep it clean! Remove any debris or trimmings from the candle before lighting. Keeping the candle and its surroundings clean ensures a safe and enjoyable experience. If you see any soot on the surrounding glass (mainly caused by untrimmed wicks), simply dampen some paper towel and wipe down the edges.
Fourthly, avoid drafts! Keep your candle away from drafts, which can cause uneven burning and shorten the candle's lifespan. Place it on a stable, heat-resistant surface.
Next, extinguish safely! Use a snuffer to extinguish the flame, rather than blowing it out, to prevent hot wax from splattering. Wait for the candle to cool before moving or relighting. You can also use the lid of a candle if yours comes with one.
Lastly, store your candles properly! Store your candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading, melting, or warping. If your candle is nearby a window in direct sunlight, you may see little sweat beads on the top of the wax. Don't worry; it won't affect the performance of the candle. You can simply re-locate the candle to a cooler spot or use a paper towel to clean up any excess oil.
Proper care ensures that your candles burn longer, cleaner, and safer, giving you maximum enjoyment and relaxation. So show your candles some love with these simple care tips, and they will love you back!
