Short answer: let the first burn reach the edge of the vessel, trim the wick to 5 mm every time, burn for no more than 3 hours, never leave a lit candle unattended and stop when about 1 cm of wax remains. Below is a plain-English guide to burning scented candles safely and getting the full burn time from every one.
Candle care at a glance
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| First burn | Until the melt pool reaches the edge (around 2 hours) |
| Before every lighting | Trim the wick to 5 mm |
| Each session | Up to 3 hours, never unattended |
| Placement | Stable, heat-resistant surface, away from draughts, children and pets |
| Finish | Stop at about 1 cm of wax, then clean and reuse the vessel |
How long should I burn a candle the first time?
Let the first burn last long enough for the melted wax to reach the edge of the vessel - usually around 2 hours for a single-wick candle of 8 - 9 cm across. This sets an even melt pool, so the candle does not tunnel down the middle and you get the full burn time.
How often should I trim the wick?
Trim the wick to 5 mm before every lighting, once the candle has cooled. A short wick gives a calm, steady flame; a long wick flickers, smokes and can blacken the glass.
How long can I burn a candle at a time?
No longer than 3 hours at a time. After that, put it out, let it cool completely and trim the wick before lighting it again.
Where should I put a lit candle?
On a stable, level, heat-resistant surface, within sight, out of reach of children and pets, and away from draughts, curtains, shelves and anything else that can catch fire. Never leave a burning candle unattended and do not move it while the wax is liquid.
When should I stop burning a candle?
Stop when about 1 cm of wax remains in the bottom of the vessel. Burning lower can overheat the glass or stoneware.
How do I put a candle out safely?
Use a snuffer or dip the wick into the melted wax with a wick dipper and straighten it again. Blowing a candle out can splash hot wax and makes more smoke. Never use water.
How do I reuse the jar or pot afterwards?
When the candle is finished, scoop out the last of the wax with a spoon, pour in hot water to lift the rest, then wash the vessel in warm soapy water. Our amber glass jar and charcoal stoneware pot make good pots for pens, brushes or a small plant.
Candles and holders to start with
Try the Fig & Cedar Scented Candle (approx. 45 hours) or the Smoked Oak & Amber Candle (approx. 60 hours), and for dinner candles the Turned Oak Taper Candle Holders. Browse Candles & Holders and Cosy Living, or read our FAQ for delivery and returns. Every order ships free across the UK with Royal Mail, and you have 30 days from delivery to return anything unused. Our candles are home fragrances for enjoyment only - not a treatment of any kind.