We've all been there. You light your beautiful new candle, eager to fill your home with its inviting fragrance. But after the first burn, you notice an unwelcome surprise: a deep tunnel forming in the center of the wax, leaving a thick ring of unmelted wax around the edges. This is called tunneling, and it can significantly shorten the lifespan of your candle.
But fear not! Here's the good news: tunneling can be fixed, and with a little TLC, you can restore your candle to its former glory and enjoy its fragrance for much longer.
What Causes Tunneling?
Tunneling occurs when the initial burn doesn't reach the edges of the candle container. This can happen for a few reasons:
- Improper wick size: A wick that's too small won't have a strong enough flame to melt the wax evenly.
- First burn not long enough: The first burn is crucial for establishing a full wax pool that reaches the edges. Aim for 2-3 hours on the first burn.
- Drafts: Drafts can cause the flame to flicker and prevent an even melt pool.
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Trim the Wick
Unlike traditional wicks, wood wicks don't require trimming. However, gently remove any burnt debris from the wick with tweezers or your fingers (once cool).
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Craft a Foil Tent
Take a sheet of aluminum foil and wrap it around the top of the candle container. Aim for a tent-like structure with a small opening in the center to allow oxygen for the flame.
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Light and Monitor
Light the candle and let it burn for 1-2 hours. The key is for the melted wax pool to reach the edges of the container. The aluminum will encourage an even melt.
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Remove Foil
Once the wax pool reaches the edges, extinguish the flame and gently remove the foil tent. The wax will be hot, so use caution and avoid touching the melted wax.
Preventing Tunnelling in the Future:
- Always burn your candle for 2-4 hours on the first burn to establish a full wax pool.
- Trim your wick to 1/4 inch before every burn.
- Avoid burning your candle in drafty areas.
- Extinguish the candle properly by dipping the wick into the melted wax and straightening it up.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure your candles burn evenly and deliver their full fragrance potential.
Now go forth, enjoy your beautifully scented home, and let the cozy vibes flow!