So I Just Light the Wick and Relax, Right?

Well basically yes, but there are a few things you can do to make your candle "live" a little longer.

Before you light your new candle, be sure to trim the wick to one quarter inch. This will keep the flame height at a safe and optimal performance level. If the wick is too long the flame will be too big. This may cause smoke and will make the candle burn rapidly and unevenly. Conversely, if the wick is too short you may have trouble keeping your candle lit.

For the first burn of any new candle that is one and a half inches or larger in diameter, be sure to allow at least a two hour burn time or until the wax around the wick has enough time to form a nice size wax pool that nearly reaches the outside edge of the candle. This will keep the wick burning in a slow even path for the life of your candle. Extinguish your candle and let it harden. After the initial two hour burn time you can relight your candle as often as you wish.

I Thought You Said My Candle Was Dripless?

Most high quality candles are dripless, though some are designed to "pool" into a jar, and should be burned only in the jar they come in. If it comes in a jar, it is best to burn it that way!

If you are burning a dripless candle, and it is dripping there are two easy things you can do that could help.

To begin with, you should check the room for a breeze or draft. The easiest way to check this is to light the candle and look at the flame. If the flame is not moving a hair, you're golden baby, but if it is dancing like a Hawaiian hula girl you have a draft. This will cause the flame to burn one side of the candle quicker and...drip.

The other problem may be that the wick is not centered in the candle. Simply adjust the wick while the pool of wax is hot until it is in the center.

I Guess I Should Not Store My Candles On the Dashboard of My Car in August, huh?

Uhhh, no. Though just about anywhere else that is cool and dry should be fine. Remember, candles melt, it's what they do! Candles left in a warm area can warp, and bright light will fade them.

You might want to consider storing your candles in the refrigerator or freezer. Your candle will be safe from heat and light and will burn more slowly and evenly. Just be sure to wrap them well so the wick doesn't absorb moisture.

I Can't Smell My Candle!

Scented candles will give off more scent while burning than just sniffing the unlit wax. If you can not smell an unlit candle and you don't want to light it to smell it, simply rub it in your hands and give another whiff.

How can I add my own fragrance?

Remember scenting candles can be as easy as adding your favorite essential oil to the pool of hot wax in your unscented candle. Just don't be surprised by a little smoke if you use this method!

How do I keep my candle clean?

Keeping your candle clean is easy. Just wipe it off with a soft cloth dipped in salad oil, or use a piece of nylon to remove fingerprints or light scratches.

Random Candle Notes...

Colored candles may "bleed" their color onto the 18th century Louis XIV armoire that you use as a candle shelf, so put something between your candle and your furnishings.

To blow your candle out without spattering the wax, just put your finger up in front of the flame before blowing. This will divert the air stream around to both sides and prevent the wax from splashing.

and...
(Obviously)
Never leave burning candles unattended.