How to Make Your Scented Candles Last Longer

Good candle care helps a candle burn more evenly, keeps the vessel cleaner and lets you get more consistent performance from the wax and wick. Always follow the safety instructions provided with your candle.

Trim the Wick Before Each Burn

Before lighting, trim the wick to about ¼ inch. A wick that is too long can create a larger flame, burn wax faster and leave more soot on the vessel.

Give the First Burn Enough Time

On the first burn, allow the melt pool to develop across most of the candle’s surface before extinguishing it, while staying within the maker’s recommended maximum burn time. This can help reduce tunnelling around the centre.

Keep the Candle Away From Drafts

Fans, open windows and strong air movement can make the flame flicker and cause uneven burning. Use your candle on a stable, heat-resistant surface away from drafts and flammable materials.

Keep the Wax Surface Clean

Do not allow trimmed wick pieces, matches or other debris to remain in the wax.

Let the Candle Cool Before Relighting

After extinguishing the candle, let the wax cool and solidify before moving or relighting it. Never move a candle while the wax is liquid.

Store Candles Away From Heat and Direct Sun

Store candles in a cool, dry place when they are not in use. Excessive heat can soften wax and direct sunlight can affect appearance.

Use the Lid Between Burns

Once the candle is completely cool, replacing the lid can help keep dust and debris off the wax surface.

Know When to Stop

Stop burning the candle when about ½ inch of wax remains at the bottom, or earlier if directed by the product label. Never leave a burning candle unattended and keep candles away from children and pets.

Candiva Burn Time

Candiva’s standard candles are designed for approximately 40–45 hours of burn time when burned and cared for properly. Actual burn time can vary with room conditions and how the candle is used.

For more information, see the Candiva FAQ or browse the full candle collection.