Beeswax Candle Burning Tips: Get a Longer, Cleaner Burn Every Time
The Best Ways to Care for Your Beeswax Candles and Prevent Common Burning Issues
There’s something special about the warm, golden glow of a beeswax candle. Unlike paraffin-based alternatives, beeswax candles burn cleaner, last longer, and naturally purify the air. But to truly enjoy their benefits, a little care goes a long way.
From the first burn to the final flicker, here’s how to make your beeswax candles last longer, burn evenly, and glow beautifully.
1. Trim the Wick for a Steady, Even Flame
Before each burn, trim the wick to about 5-6mm (¼ inch). A properly trimmed wick:
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Prevents excessive flickering
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Reduces soot and smoke
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Ensures a slow, even burn
Use sharp scissors or wick trimmers for precision. If the wick becomes mushroom-shaped, trimming it will keep the flame stable and the wax burning efficiently.
2. First Burn: Create a Full Melt Pool
The first burn sets the memory of the candle. To prevent tunneling (where wax burns down the center, leaving wasted wax on the sides), allow the candle to burn until the entire surface has melted—this usually takes 1-3 hours, depending on the size.
Tip: The larger the candle, the longer the first burn should be to ensure an even melt pool.
3. Avoid Drafts for a Steady Burn
Keep your candle away from open windows, fans, and air vents. Drafts can:
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Cause uneven melting
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Lead to flickering and smoking
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Shorten the lifespan of your candle
Place your candle on a flat, heat-resistant surface to keep it burning smoothly and evenly.
4. Snuff, Don’t Blow Out
Blowing out a candle can cause wax splattering and excess smoke. Instead, use a wick snuffer or dip the wick into the melted wax to extinguish the flame cleanly and prevent tunneling.
Bonus Tip: Dipping the wick in wax before extinguishing helps coat it for the next burn, making it easier to relight.
5. Burn Beeswax Candles in Sessions for Best Results
Beeswax candles burn best in 2-4 hour sessions. Burning for short periods can cause tunneling, while burning too long may overheat the wax.
For larger pillar candles, rotate them occasionally to ensure even wax distribution.
6. Keep Your Candles Clean
Beeswax candles are naturally dust-resistant, but if left unused for long periods, they can accumulate debris. Store them in a cool, dry place, preferably in a cloth bag or closed container.
If dust does collect, gently wipe them with a soft cloth before lighting.
7. Repurpose & Reuse Beeswax Candle Wax
Beeswax candles burn almost completely, but if you have leftover wax, don’t waste it.
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Make a simple homemade furniture polish by mixing melted beeswax with a natural oil like olive or linseed oil.
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Rub it along stiff drawer runners to help them glide more smoothly.
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Use it as a lubricant for tools to prevent rust and keep them working efficiently.
Fun Fact: Unlike paraffin, beeswax is non-toxic, biodegradable, and naturally sustainable, making it the perfect zero-waste candle choice.
Enjoy the Warm Glow of Beeswax Candles - Naturally
With these simple yet effective tips, you’ll enjoy longer, cleaner burns and a more radiant glow from your beeswax candles.
At Collombatti Naturals, our handcrafted 100% pure beeswax candles bring warmth, comfort, and sustainability into your space. Browse our range and discover the natural beauty of beeswax today.