The Art of Candle Care: How to Make Every Flame Last Longer

There’s something timeless—almost sacred—about lighting a candle. It marks a moment: of intention, of stillness, of comfort.

But behind every softly glowing flame is a quiet science, a bit of craftsmanship, and yes, a little tender loving care.

As candle makers, we know this well: even the most beautifully made candle needs the right care to truly shine. Whether you’re new to candles or have shelves full of favorites, understanding the art of candle care can transform your entire experience—from burn quality to scent throw to how long your favorite candle will last.

Let’s walk through it—because your candle deserves it. And so do you.

1. Trim the Wick (Yes, Every Time)

If you do nothing else, do this: trim your wick to about ¼ inch before each burn.
Why? A long or mushroomed wick creates a high, flickering flame that burns too hot, wastes wax, and can leave soot on the jar or nearby walls. A properly trimmed wick ensures a steady, even burn—like a calm, steady heartbeat.

Pro tip: Use wick trimmers or small scissors, and always trim when the wax is cool and solid.

2. The First Burn Creates the Memory

Candle wax has memory. On your first burn, allow the wax to melt all the way to the edge of the container.

Why it matters: If you extinguish the candle too early, it may tunnel—burning only down the center and leaving wax along the sides.

Depending on your candle’s size, this full melt pool may take 2–4 hours. So light it when you have time to enjoy it, not when you're rushing out the door.

3. Burn Time Matters

Candles aren't meant to burn endlessly. Keep each burn between 2 to 4 hours to maintain wax quality and avoid overheating the container—especially important with metal tins or glass jars.

Longer burns every now and then are okay, but as a general rule: slow and steady wins the scent throw.

4. Don’t Blow It Out (Literally)

Skip the dramatic puff of air—it creates smoke and can disrupt the wick.
Instead, use a snuffer to gently extinguish the flame, or dip the wick into the melted wax and lift it back up. This coats the wick, making for a cleaner relight next time.

5. Keep It Safe and Steady

Place your candle away from drafts and open windows. Air movement can cause uneven burning and increase safety risks.

Always burn your candle on a heat-safe surface, out of reach of children, pets, curtains, or anything flammable. And of course: never leave a candle unattended.

6. Know When to Say Goodbye

When only ½ inch of wax remains, it’s time to let your candle go. Burning beyond this point can cause the container to overheat or crack.

But don’t toss it—clean the vessel and repurpose it. Our jars and tins make beautiful homes for cotton pads, paperclips, or a few sprigs from the garden.

Candle Care Is Self-Care

Caring for your candle isn’t just about making it last—it’s about slowing down, paying attention, and creating beauty with intention.

At Betty Blu, we hand-pour every candle with care and conscience. But the final magic happens in your home. In your hands. In your moments.

So trim the wick. Let the wax melt to the edges. Inhale deeply. And give your candle the care it deserves—because it was made to light up your life, one mindful burn at a time.