Why isn't my candle burning properly? Tips for a perfect burn

Candles are a true pleasure for creating a warm and fragrant atmosphere. But sometimes they don't burn as expected: the wick goes out, the wax tunnels, the flame is too high... Don't panic! Here are the main causes and solutions to fully enjoy your handmade candles.

The candle is digging a tunnel:

The tunnel effect occurs when the wax melts only around the wick, leaving a deep hole and preventing the candle from burning evenly.

Why is this happening?
👉 First use too short: the first use is crucial! If you extinguish your candle too soon, it will retain this memory and always melt in the same way.

How to avoid the tunnel effect?
✅ Always leave the candle lit until the entire surface is melted (approximately 1 to 3 hours depending on the size).

✅ If the tunnel has already formed, try removing excess wax from the edges and leave the candle longer.

 

The wick goes out or burns poorly:

If your wick doesn't hold the flame or goes out quickly, it can be frustrating.

Possible causes:

👉 A buildup of carbon that creates a black deposit at the end of the wick.

👉 Exposure to drafts.

Solutions:

✅ Before lighting your candle, trim the wick to about 5mm to avoid a flame that is too big or too small.

✅ Avoid blowing too hard on it, use a snuffer instead.

✅ Place your candle in a draft-free location to ensure stable combustion.

The flame is too high or is emitting black smoke:

Too large a flame can be dangerous and produce black smoke that soils the edges of the container.

Possible causes:

👉 A wick that is too long burns too intensely and produces soot.

👉 Poor quality wax or perfume can also affect combustion.

How can this be avoided?

✅ Regularly trim the wick to 5 mm before each use.

✅ Check the composition of your candle: opt for natural waxes and fragrances without harmful additives.

The final word:

To fully enjoy your handmade candles, follow these simple tips:

✅ Always allow the wax to melt over the entire surface during the first use.

✅ Trim the wick before each lighting.

✅ Avoid drafts and place your candle on a stable surface.

✅ To prolong the life of your candle, avoid leaving it lit for more than 4 hours at a time.

With these tips, you can enjoy perfect combustion and extend the life of your candles!

Looking for quality handcrafted candles? Discover our natural creations on our website.