We've been making candles in the Lake District since 1980, so we've learned a thing or two about getting the best from them. Follow these simple tips and your candle will burn more evenly, smell stronger and last longer.
1. Get the first burn right
The first time you light a candle is the most important. Let it burn until the melted wax reaches the edges of the jar, which usually takes a couple of hours. Wax has a 'memory', so if you blow it out too early it will tend to burn down the centre in a narrow tunnel every time afterwards, wasting the wax around the sides.
2. Trim the wick
Before every burn, trim the wick to around 5mm. A long wick burns too hot, creates a large, flickering flame and can leave soot on the glass. A neatly trimmed wick gives a calm, steady flame and a cleaner burn.
3. Don't burn for too long
Try not to burn your candle for more than four hours at a time. After that, the wick can mushroom and the flame grows too large. Blow it out, let it cool completely, trim the wick and relight.
4. Keep it away from draughts
Open windows, fans and busy doorways make the flame flicker, which causes uneven burning and soot. Place your candle on a stable, heat-resistant surface away from draughts, curtains and anything flammable.
5. Put it out properly
Blowing out a candle can splash wax and leave a trail of smoke. Instead, use a snuffer or gently dip the wick into the melted wax and straighten it again, ready for next time.
6. Keep the lid on
If your candle comes with a lid, pop it back on once the candle has cooled. It keeps dust off the wax and helps preserve the fragrance between burns. Store candles somewhere cool and out of direct sunlight.
7. Know when to stop
Stop burning when around 1cm of wax is left at the bottom of the jar. Any lower and the glass can get too hot.
8. Never leave it unattended
Always keep a lit candle in sight, out of reach of children and pets, and never fall asleep with one burning.
How long should my candle last?
With good care, our small candles give up to 35 hours of burn time and our large jar candles burn for up to 100 hours. Treat them well and you'll enjoy every one of those hours. Browse our full range of scented candles, or if you prefer flame-free fragrance, take a look at our reed diffusers and wax melts.
