Candle care checklist

Use this list to get the best burn, the strongest scent and the longest life from every candle. Your progress is saved in your browser, so you can come back to it.

When you unbox a new candle

• Read the label for wax type, burn time and any special instructions
• Check the wick is centered and upright
• Keep the lid, it protects the wax and the fragrance
• Choose a level, heat-resistant spot away from drafts, curtains and shelves above
• Plan the first lighting for a time when you can stay nearby for 2 to 4 hours

The first burn

• Trim the wick to about 5 mm (1/4 inch), or 3 mm for a wood wick
• Light the wick at its base
• Let the melt pool reach the edge of the jar, about 1 hour per 2.5 cm of width
• Do not burn longer than about 4 hours
• Extinguish with a snuffer or a gentle breath, never water
• Let the wax set fully before moving the candle

Every time you light it

• The wax is completely cool and solid before trimming
• The wick is trimmed and debris is removed
• There is a 30 cm (12 inch) clear zone around the flame
• Children and pets cannot reach it
• All wicks of a multi-wick candle are lit together
• You will be in the room the whole time

While it burns

• The flame is steady and no taller than about 2.5 cm (1 inch)
• No black smoke or soot is visible
• The melt pool is spreading evenly toward the edge
• The candle has not been moved while the wax is liquid

After each burn

• The wick has stopped glowing
• The lid goes back on once the wax has set
• Any soot on the rim is wiped off with a dry cloth once cool
• The surface is level; if a tunnel is starting, see the fixing tunneling guide

Storage

• Store candles in a cool, dark place away from direct sun
• Keep lids on to protect fragrance and keep dust off
• Keep candles away from heat sources so they do not soften or sweat

End of life

• Stop burning a jar when about 1 cm (1/2 inch) of wax remains
• Stop burning a pillar when about 5 cm (2 inches) remain
• Freeze the jar for a few hours so leftover wax pops out, or use warm water once it is fully cool
• Remove the wick tab, wash the jar and reuse it for makeup brushes, pens, plants or small storage
• Recycle the jar where local recycling accepts glass

Safety basics

• Smoke alarms tested this month
• Matches and lighters stored out of children's reach
• Candles never left burning when everyone leaves or goes to sleep