The Most Important Aspect of Candle Care: Trimming Your Wick
Did you know that a candle only needs 1/4" wick to burn properly? Read along to learn more about proper wick care and how it will make your candles last longer and burn safer and with more ambiance.
Candle Wicks Should be 1/4", All The Time, Always
More than 1/4" is too much, and any less is too little.
That might seem like a really short wick, but I promise, 1/4" is plenty...
But to keep a wick at 1/4", you’ll usually need to trim it as it burns.
So, can you eyeball a 1/4"?
candle wick length guide candle wick length guide
But WHY should I trim them?
The main reason to trim your wick is that it avoids the candle “mushrooming”.
Mushrooming is bad because 1) it’s ugly 2) it can cause excess soot 3) it can make your candle burn too hot (which makes it a fire hazard).
But WHY doesn't the wick just trim ITSELF?
Candlemakers are usually going to opt for wicks that self-trim with their chosen wax. Picking the right wick is actually about 90% learning candle-making.
But, even the perfect wick only gets you so far.
So, just like when you buy milk from a farmer it’s your job to put it in the fridge, when you burn a candle it’s your job to trim the wick.
But what about WOOD WICKS?
Wood wicks are extra pretty, but-like most pretty things- they are extra needy.
But don’t fret- you don’t need fancy wick trimmers to trim them. In between burns, simply pinch the charred top off with your fingers, or trim it with fingernail clippers if you’re fancy.
Bottom line: if you want your candle to burn better, last longer, and be safer... trim your wick! <3
And remember, a little g
oes a long way.
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