Why does it matter how you burn a candle?
Most people simply light a candle and walk away—but there’s actually an art to it. Burning a candle properly ensures you get the longest life, cleanest burn, and strongest scent. Whether you're lighting a candle to relax, set the mood, or scent a room, following a few simple steps will make all the difference.
At Karessa Candles, our hand-poured creations are made to perform beautifully—if you treat them right.
What should you do before lighting a candle?
1. Trim the wick to 1/4 inch
Use scissors or a wick trimmer to cut the wick to about ¼ inch before lighting. A properly trimmed wick:
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Prevents soot buildup
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Creates a steady flame
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Extends the life of the candle
Our soy candles come with premium cotton wicks designed for low-smoke burning when trimmed correctly.
How long should you burn your candle?
2. Burn until the top layer of wax is fully melted
Let the candle burn long enough that the wax melts all the way to the edges of the jar. This usually takes 1–2 hours on the first burn.
Why it matters:
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Prevents tunneling (wasted wax)
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Sets the "wax memory" for future burns
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Ensures an even, longer-lasting candle
Our candle jars are crafted to support even burning with clean, straight walls and stable bases.
Where is the best place to burn a candle?
3. Place your candle on a flat, draft-free surface
Avoid placing candles near fans, open windows, or vents. Flickering flames from air movement cause:
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Uneven melting
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Wick mushrooming
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Shorter burn time
Try styling your Karessa Candle in a cozy reading nook or bathroom corner for uninterrupted calm.
How should you extinguish a candle?
4. Snuff the flame—don’t blow it out
Blowing out a candle creates smoke and can move the wick. Use a snuffer or place the lid back on gently to extinguish it.
After the flame goes out:
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Re-center the wick while the wax is soft
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Let the wax solidify before moving or relighting
Want candles that come with elegant reusable lids? Browse our gift hamper collection for curated sets.
How often should you burn and maintain your candle?
5. Burn in sessions of 1–3 hours
Don’t light a candle for just 15 minutes, and don’t leave it burning for 6+ hours either. A good rule is to burn it for 1–3 hours at a time.
This helps:
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Avoid wick drowning
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Preserve fragrance oil balance
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Maintain an even wax surface
Final Thoughts
Burning a candle is more than just lighting a wick—it's a ritual. With care, your Karessa Candle will reward you with hours of soothing light and beautiful fragrance.
Light with intention. Burn with love. Glow longer.
