Coconut Wax Candle Care 101: Tips to Make Your Christian Candles Last Longer and Burn Cleaner

Candles are more than just a source of light; they can create a peaceful atmosphere, fill your home with beautiful aromas, and even remind you of God's promises. But to get the most out of your candles, proper care is essential. Whether you're enjoying one of our Scripture-infused Brave & Courageous candles or a favorite from your collection, these tips will ensure you enjoy every burn to the fullest!

 

 1. Trim the Wick Before Each Burn

Before lighting your candle, it's important to trim the wick to about 1/4 inch. Why? A trimmed wick ensures an even burn and prevents soot from forming on the glass or causing the flame to flicker excessively. It also helps your candle burn more efficiently, extending its lifespan.

Neglecting to trim the wick can lead to a build-up of carbon known as "mushrooming," which can create black smoke and diminish the fragrance. Keeping the wick trimmed also prevents the flame from getting too large, which can cause the candle to burn too quickly.

 

2. Let the Wax Pool Reach almost the Edge

For the first burn, let your candle burn long enough for the wax pool to reach very close to the edge of the container. This process usually takes 2-4 hours, depending on the size of the candle. Allowing the wax to melt evenly across the surface prevents tunneling—when the wax burns straight down the center, leaving unused wax along the sides.

Note: Coconut wax will stick to the side of the jar until it burns down midway, and then the wax will “catch up” and melt off the sides of the jar! 

A full wax pool will also give you the best fragrance throw, filling your space with the candle's aroma. Consistently allowing your candle to burn this way helps ensure an even burn every time.

 

3. Keep Away from Drafts

Candles don’t like drafts! Breezes from open windows, fans, or vents can cause the flame to flicker, which leads to uneven burning, sooting, and reduced candle performance. To avoid this, place your candle in a stable, draft-free environment to allow the flame to burn steadily.

 

4. Don’t Burn Too Long

As much as you might want to keep your candle burning all day, it’s best to limit each burn to 3-4 hours. Burning a candle too long can cause the wick to become unstable, which might result in a dangerously large flame or excessive soot production. After about 4 hours, let the candle cool and solidify before lighting it again.

 

5. Use a Wick Dipper to Extinguish

Rather than blowing out your candle (which can create smoke and soot), consider using a wick dipper or a snuffer to extinguish the flame. Using a wick dipper not only prevents smoke but also helps re-center the wick while the wax is still warm, preparing it for a clean, even burn next time.

 

6. Store Candles Properly

When not in use, candles should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Excessive heat or light can cause the wax to soften, fade, or lose its scent. Keeping your candle in direct sunlight can also alter the shade of certain scents that contain vanillin. If your candle has a lid, use it to keep dust from settling on the surface.

 

7. Keep Your Candle Clean

Dust, soot, or debris on the surface of your candle can impact how it burns. Make sure to keep the surface of your candle clean and free of any dirt or dust. If debris like matchstick fragments falls into the wax, remove it once the wax cools.

 

8. Reuse Your Candle Jars

One of the perks of our Brave & Courageous candles is the beautiful, reusable jars they come in. Once your candle has burned all the way down, clean out the jar by using a spoon to scoop out the leftover cooled wax and wash with warm water and soap. You can use the empty jars as planters, pencil holders, or even for storing small trinkets!

 

By following these simple candle care tips, you can enjoy your Brave & Courageous candles to their fullest potential. Whether it’s to enhance your personal time in prayer and Scripture reading or to gift a loved one a moment of peace, properly cared-for candles will burn longer, brighter, and cleaner, allowing you to meditate on God’s Word and His promises with every flicker of light!!

 

Ready to Light Up Your Life? Explore our collection of hand-poured, Scripture-inspired candles and find your next favorite scent!