Have you ever lit a candle, only to find that it tunnels down the middle and leaves a lot of wax on the sides? Or worse, that it burns unevenly and leaves a messy and unattractive wax pool? If so, you're not alone. These issues are common, and they can be frustrating for candle lovers. But fear not, because we have some insights and solutions to share with you.
First, let's look at the reasons why candles tunnel and don't burn evenly:
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The first burn is crucial: When you light a new candle for the first time, make sure to let it burn for at least 2-3 hours, or until the entire surface is melted. This will prevent the candle from tunneling, as it will establish a "memory burn" that ensures an even and full melt pool in the future.
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The wick is too small: If the wick is too small for the diameter of the candle, it won't generate enough heat to melt the wax all the way to the edges, resulting in tunneling. Make sure to choose the right size wick for your candle and trim it to 1/4 inch before each use to ensure a steady and even burn.
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The wax is low-quality: Some types of wax, such as paraffin or blended waxes, can contain additives and impurities that cause tunneling and uneven burning. Look for candles made with high-quality, all-natural waxes, such as soy wax, beeswax, or coconut wax, that are free from harmful chemicals and pollutants.
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The ambient temperature is too low: If the room is too cold, the candle may not generate enough heat to melt the wax evenly, resulting in tunneling. Make sure to burn your candles in a room that is at least 65-75°F, and avoid drafty areas or open windows that can cause uneven burning.
Now that you know the common causes of tunneling and uneven burning, let's talk about how to prevent and fix these issues:
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Burn your candle for long enough: As mentioned earlier, the first burn is crucial, but it's also important to let the candle burn for at least 2-3 hours each time to avoid tunneling and ensure an even burn.
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Keep the wick trimmed: Trim the wick to 1/4 inch before each use to ensure a clean and even burn, and avoid letting the wick "mushroom" or accumulate soot or debris.
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Position the candle properly: Make sure to place the candle on a level surface and away from drafty areas or objects that can interfere with the heat flow.
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Use a candle warmer: If you still have issues with tunneling or uneven burning, you can try using a candle warmer, which is a device that melts the wax evenly without burning the wick. This way, you can enjoy the scent and ambiance of your candle without wasting any wax.
At MatchBox Candle Co., we take pride in crafting candles that burn evenly, cleanly, and beautifully. We use all-natural soy wax, high-quality fragrance oils, and natural cotton wicks to ensure a premium candle experience for our customers. If you have any questions or concerns about candle burning, feel free to reach out to us, and we'll be happy to help.