As long-time candle lovers, we know how frustrating it can be when they don't burn evenly. Whether it's tunneling or uneven wax melting, both can lead to a shorter burn time and a less satisfying candle experience. But never fear; we’re here to share our tips and tricks for evenly burning pillar candles.
Preventing Candle Tunneling
The first step in ensuring an even burn is to prevent candle tunneling. Tunneling occurs when a candle burns down the middle, leaving the outer wax untouched. This issue is often caused by lighting the candle for too short of a time or not letting the wax melt all the way to the edge on the first burn.
To prevent this, it’s important to trim the wick to about 1/4 inch before lighting the candle. This will allow the wax to melt evenly around the wick, preventing the formation of a hollow space. Additionally, when lighting a new candle, it is important to let it burn for at least an hour or until the wax has melted all the way to the edges of the candle. This will create a "memory burn," which will help the candle to continue to burn evenly in the future.
How to Get a Candle to Burn Evenly
Once you've set the stage for an even burn, there are a few things you can do to maintain it. First, make sure to continue trimming the wick to 1/4 inch before each use. This will keep the flame from becoming too large and causing uneven wax melting. Also, be sure to keep the candle in a stable location and away from drafts. This will prevent the wax from melting unevenly and cause the candle to lean to one side.
Additionally, you should avoid burning a candle for more than four hours at a time, as this can also cause the wax to melt unevenly. If you are unable to burn a candle for an extended period of time, be sure to extinguish it properly and trim the wick before relighting. We always recommend using a candle snuffer to prevent ash from collecting in the wax pool.
What to Do When Candles are Not Burning Evenly
If, despite your best efforts, you find your candles not burning evenly, there are a few things you can do to fix the problem. One option is to carefully heat the wax around the wick using a hairdryer on a low setting. This will cause the wax to melt and level out, creating a more even burn. Another option is to carefully scoop out some of the melted wax from the center of the candle, using a spoon or a butter knife. This will allow the wick to draw in more wax, which will help the candle to burn more evenly.
Enjoy the Glow!
By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to burning pillar candles evenly and enjoying their beautiful glow for longer. Remember to always trim the wick, let the candle burn for an hour before extinguishing it, and avoid moving the candle while it is burning. As always, be sure to practice safe candle burning habits and never leave a candle unattended. Happy candle burning!
