Candle care tips from your fragrance bestie at The Wicked Scent Co.
If you’ve ever been frustrated by a candle that tunnels, burns too fast, or loses its scent, you’re not alone. But with a few quick adjustments, you can seriously extend your candle’s life and get the most out of every drop of wax. Here’s how:
1. Trim the Wick (Every. Single. Time.)
Why it matters:
Trimming your wick to about ¼ inch before each burn keeps your flame in check and prevents that mushrooming effect that leads to excessive smoke and soot.
How it helps your candle last longer:
A shorter wick creates a steadier, smaller flame, which means your candle burns more evenly and slowly. That’s less wasted wax and more time for you to enjoy your scent.
2. Burn Long Enough to Reach a Full Melt Pool
Why it matters:
The melt pool is the melted wax that forms across the top of the candle while it’s burning. You want it to reach all the way to the edges of the container.
How it helps your candle last longer:
Letting the wax melt edge-to-edge prevents tunneling, where wax sticks to the sides and your wick ends up drowning in its own little canyon. A full melt pool ensures you're using all the wax evenly, maximizing every ounce of fragrance and burn time.
3. Store It Away from Direct Sunlight (And Heat)
Why it matters:
Sunlight and heat can break down the fragrance oils and discolor the wax over time.
How it helps your candle last longer:
Protecting your candle from direct sunlight helps preserve its scent throw and keeps the wax from melting or softening prematurely. It’s like keeping your skincare out of the sun—preserve the quality, keep it cute.
Need more tips?
Follow us on [Instagram/TikTok] @thewickedscent and keep your candles cute and functional all season long.