Lighting a candle isn’t just about fragrance - it’s about creating a feeling. That soft flicker in the background, the calm scent after a long day, the way a room instantly feels cosier... candles are little rituals in a jar.
But here’s the thing most people don’t realise: how you burn your candle matters. If you’ve ever noticed black smoke, uneven wax, or your candle just not lasting as long as it should, don’t worry - it’s not you, it’s just a matter of knowing a few simple care tips.
At our company, we hand-pour candles using a clean blend of soy and coconut wax, scented only with pure essential oils, and we use two wicks in every jar for a more balanced burn. And just as much care goes into what happens after your candle burns out - we include a special seed paper with every order, so when the candle's finished, you can reuse the jar and grow flowers right from it.
Ready to get the most out of your candle? Let’s break it down in a way that’s simple, useful, and a little magical.
The First Burn: Where the Magic Begins
Let’s start with the first time you light your candle. It might seem small, but that first burn sets the tone for every burn after. You want the wax to melt all the way across the top layer, from edge to edge. This might take around 2–3 hours, depending on the size of the jar.
Why is this so important? Because wax has a memory. If you blow it out too early and it only melts a small circle in the center, your candle will likely tunnel on future burns. That’s when the wax forms a deep hole and doesn’t use the rest - aka wasted candle.
So, if you can, let the candle fully pool across the top on that first light. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.
Trim Those Wicks - Every Time
Before each burn, take a quick moment to trim the wicks. Since our candles have two wicks, both need to be cut down to about ¼ inch before lighting.
This helps the flames stay soft and steady, and more importantly, it prevents smoke and soot from forming on the jar. It also keeps the wax from burning too quickly, which helps your candle last longer.
You can use a wick trimmer, nail clippers, or even scissors. Whatever works - just don’t skip this step. Your candle (and your walls) will thank you.
Avoid Over-Burning
Once your candle is lit, try to place it somewhere still. Fans, open windows, or heating vents can cause the flame to flicker and smoke. A flickering flame doesn’t just waste wax - it also leads to uneven burns and more soot.
Also, try not to burn your candle for more than four hours at a time. After that point, the wax gets too hot and can affect both the scent and the structure of the candle. Let it cool completely before relighting, and it’ll perform better for the next session.
Why We Use Two Wicks - and What That Means for You
We get this question a lot: why two wicks?
The answer is simple. Two wicks mean a more even burn. With larger jars, one wick can’t always melt the wax fully across the surface. Two wicks help avoid tunneling and create a stronger, more consistent scent throw throughout the room.
Just remember to:
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Light both wicks at the same time
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Trim both evenly
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Check that both flames are burning in sync
It’s a little detail, but it makes a big difference in how your candle performs.
Storing Your Candle the Right Way
A quick tip that’s often overlooked: how you store your candle matters, too.
To keep your candle fresh and clean between burns:
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Cover it with a lid or dust cover to protect it from dust and debris.
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Keep it out of direct sunlight, which can fade the scent and color.
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Store it in a cool, dry place, especially in summer.
This helps your candle last longer, look better, and smell just as good from first burn to last.
When the Candle's Done: Don’t Toss the Jar - Grow Something!
Once your candle has reached the bottom, there’s still one last surprise waiting for you - our seed paper.
After the final burn, let the wax cool and harden. Then, scoop out any leftover wax and wash the jar with warm soapy water. Once it’s clean and dry, it’s ready for its second life.
Inside your packaging, you’ll find a piece of seed paper. This isn’t just decorative - it’s made with real flower seeds (we often use asylum flowers, but it might vary with the season).
Here’s how to plant it:
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Fill your clean candle jar with soil.
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Tear the seed paper into small pieces and press them lightly into the soil.
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Cover them with a thin layer of soil.
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Water gently and place in a sunny spot.
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Keep the soil moist—and in a few weeks, you’ll start to see little sprouts.
There’s something beautiful about watching flowers grow from something that once brought light. It’s like your candle gets a second story.
A Few Quick Reminders
Remember these candle care basics:
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Let it burn all the way to the edges the first time.
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Trim the wicks before each use.
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Don’t burn for more than 4 hours.
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Keep it away from fans or breezes.
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Use both wicks every time.
And when the candle’s done - clean the jar, plant the seed paper, and let something new begin.
Candle Rituals to Try at Home
Candles aren’t just about scent - they’re about setting an intention, creating a ritual, or simply finding a moment to pause. If you want to get even more out of your candle, here are a few sweet and simple ways to build it into your routine:
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Morning quiet time: Light a candle while you sip your coffee or journal.
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Bath ritual: Add a candle or two for the perfect spa-like soak.
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Wind-down routine: Light it in the evening as you get ready to relax or read.
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Meditation or breathwork: A steady flame can help ground your focus.
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Hosting guests: Use your favorite scent to set a welcoming tone at home.
However you use them, candles are a beautiful way to reconnect with yourself and your space.
Candle Care FAQs
How do I stop my candle from tunnelling?
Always let it burn to the edges during the first use. That full melt creates an even wax memory.
Why is my candle producing black smoke?
Chances are, the wick is too long. Trim it to ¼ inch before each burn to prevent this.
What’s in the seed paper?
Our seed paper usually includes asylum flowers, but we may include other seasonal blooms too. Just plant it and see what pops up!
Is your wax safe and clean?
Yes! We use a blend of soy and coconut wax, plus essential oils only - no paraffin, no chemicals, no synthetic fragrances.
Can I reuse the jar for other things?
Definitely. After you plant the seed paper, you can use the jar as a mini vase, makeup brush holder, spice jar - whatever suits your space.
Let Your Candle Do More Than Just Burn
A candle isn’t just something you light - it’s something you live with. It becomes part of your space, your mood, your rituals. With just a little care, it can last longer, burn cleaner, and even grow flowers after it’s done.
So next time you light one of our candles, know that it’s more than wax and wick. It’s a moment. A breath. A beginning. And when that moment ends, it turns into something even more beautiful.
Take your time. Trim your wicks. Burn with intention. And when the glow fades, plant something new.
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