The Foundation: Safety, First Burn & Basic Care

Using a scented candle correctly begins with prioritizing safety and understanding the critical first burn. Neglecting these fundamentals not only diminishes performance but also poses risks.

Safety First:

• Location, Location, Location: Place the candle on a stable, heat-resistant surface, far from drafts, curtains, bedding, pets, and children. Maintain at least 3 inches of clearance from walls or flammable objects.
• Never Leave Unattended: Extinguish the candle before leaving a room or sleeping. A momentary distraction can lead to disaster.
• Mind the Vessel: Ensure the candle container is sturdy and designed for heat. Avoid placing hot containers directly on delicate surfaces; use a coaster.
• Extinguish Safely: Use a snuffer or carefully dip the wick into the wax pool and straighten it. Blowing can send sparks or hot wax flying.

The Crucial First Burn:
This is non-negotiable for optimal performance. When lighting your candle for the first time:

• Burn Until Full Melt Pool: Allow it to burn long enough for the melted wax to reach the entire edge of the container. This usually takes 2-4 hours, depending on size. This prevents "tunneling" (where wax only melts down the center on subsequent burns), maximizing scent throw and candle lifespan.
• Trim Before Lighting: Before every light, trim the wick to 1/4 inch (6mm). Long wicks cause uneven burning, excessive smoke (soot), large flames, and can crack the container. Use proper wick trimmers for a clean cut.

Basic Care:

• Burn Time: Avoid burning for more than 4 hours at a time. This prevents overheating the container and potential wick issues. Let it cool completely before relighting.
• Re-centering the Wick: Gently nudge the wick back to center while the wax is still soft (but extinguished) if it drifts.

Mastering these fundamental safety rules and the first burn ritual lays the essential groundwork for enjoying your candles safely and effectively.