How to Make Your Candles Last Longer: Expert Tips

There’s something magical about lighting a candle—whether it’s to unwind after a long day, set a mood, or simply make your space feel more inviting. But there’s nothing more frustrating than a candle that burns out too quickly or tunnels down the middle after just a few uses.

If you've ever wondered how to make candles last longer, you're not alone. With a few expert tricks, you can dramatically extend the life of your favourite candles and enjoy every last bit of fragrance.

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🔥 Top Tips to Make Your Candles Last Longer

1. Trim the Wick Before Every Burn

Keeping your wick trimmed to around 5mm helps ensure a clean, even flame. A long wick produces a larger flame, which burns through wax faster and can lead to soot or smoke.

2. Let the Wax Pool Fully on First Burn

This is the golden rule. Allow the candle to melt all the way to the edges of the container during the first burn. This prevents tunnelling—when wax builds up around the sides and wastes product.

3. Don’t Burn for Too Long

While it’s important to let the wax pool fully, avoid burning your candle for more than 3–4 hours at a time. This keeps the wick stable and helps preserve the fragrance.

4. Keep Away from Draughts

Candles in draughty spots (like near windows or fans) burn unevenly and faster due to flickering flames. Always place your candle on a stable, level surface away from breezes.

5. Store Candles Properly

Keep unused candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Heat and light can break down the wax and fragrance oils, shortening their shelf life.

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🕯️ Bonus Tip: Use a Candle Snuffer

Blowing out your candle can lead to wick damage and smoky residue. A candle snuffer helps extinguish the flame gently and protects the wick for future use.

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❓ Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many hours should I burn a candle for?
Aim for 2–4 hours at a time. This gives the wax time to melt evenly while avoiding wick damage or overheating.

2. Why is my candle tunnelling?
Tunnelling occurs when a candle isn’t burned long enough to reach the edges during the first few uses. Always let the wax pool completely the first time.

3. Can I fix a tunneled candle?
Yes! You can use a hairdryer to melt the edges or wrap the top in foil (leaving a hole in the centre) to help even out the wax.

4. Does wick trimming really make a difference?
Absolutely. Trimming your wick prevents excess flame size, soot, and wasted wax—all of which help your candle last longer.

5. Do soy candles last longer than other types?
In general, yes. Soy wax burns slower than paraffin, giving you more hours of fragrance and a cleaner burn.