Candle Care 101: How to Maximize the Life and Performance of Your Beeswax Candles
Beeswax candles are a natural, eco-friendly choice that offers a variety of benefits over traditional paraffin candles. However, to get the most out of your beeswax candles, proper care is essential. Here are some tips to maximize the life and performance of your beeswax candles.
Our Beeswax candles are available in assorted designs and are made from beeswax harvested from our own hives. They burn slower than traditional candles and produce almost no smoke. Because they are all-natural, they are non-toxic and produce negative ions that help to neutralize pollutants in the air. Additionally, their mildly sweet honey scent can aid in relaxation without being overwhelming. They are dripless and safe to burn, making them a perfect addition to any home or event.
Initial Burn: The Memory Burn
The first time you light your beeswax candle is crucial for its subsequent burns. This is known as the 'memory burn'. The rule of thumb is to allow the candle to burn for one hour per inch of its diameter. This will allow the wax to melt all the way to the edge and form a full melting pool, which will prevent the candle from tunneling down the center as it continues to burn.
Trim the Wick
Before you light your beeswax candle, always trim the wick to about 1/4 inch. This will give you a cleaner, brighter burn and prevent the wick from producing smoke and large flames. It's recommended to use a wick trimmer for the best results. Always remember to trim the wick before each use.
Avoid Drafts
To maximize the life of your beeswax candle, avoid placing it in drafty areas. Drafts can cause the candle to burn unevenly and result in wasted wax. If you see the flame flickering excessively or the candle is smoking, it's likely in a draft.
Candle Storage
Where and how you store your candles can also affect their performance and longevity. Keep your beeswax candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or intense light. Long exposure to light can fade the color of the wax. Also, store them in an upright position to prevent warping.
Extinguish Carefully
When it's time to put out the flame, use a candle snuffer or a wick dipper. Blowing out the candle can cause wax to splatter and the wick to continue smoking. By using a snuffer or dipping the wick into the wax, you extinguish the flame with minimal smoke and prevent any wax from being wasted.
Keep Your Candle Clean
Over time, dust can accumulate on the surface of your candle. To clean it, use a soft, dry cloth or a nylon stocking to gently wipe off the dust. Never use water or cleaning solutions, as they can damage the wax surface.
Use a Candle Holder
To protect your surfaces, always burn your beeswax candles on a heat-resistant, non-flammable holder. The holder will catch any dripping wax and prevent heat damage to your surfaces.
Conclusion
With proper care, beeswax candles can provide hours of natural, fragrant light. Remember that the way you treat your candle from the first burn will impact its lifespan and performance. By following these simple candle care tips, you'll enhance your candle burning experience and maximize the life of your beeswax candles. Happy burning!