Candle Care Guide

Candle Care Guide

Proper candle care ensures a clean, even burn and maximizes the life of your luxury candles. Follow these essential tips to get the most from every Dream Candle.

The First Burn is Critical

The first time you light your candle sets the tone for its entire life. Always allow the wax to melt completely across the entire surface, reaching the edges of the container. This typically takes 2-4 hours depending on candle size.

Why it matters: If you extinguish the candle before a full melt pool forms, it creates a "memory ring" and your candle will tunnel down the center for all future burns, wasting wax and reducing burn time.

Trim Your Wick

Before each burn, trim the wick to 1/4 inch (about 6mm). Use wick trimmers or scissors for a clean cut.

Benefits of trimming:

  • Prevents smoking and soot buildup
  • Ensures a steady, controlled flame
  • Stops wick "mushrooming" (carbon buildup)
  • Extends candle life
  • Keeps your glass clean and clear

Burn Time Guidelines

Minimum: Burn for at least 2 hours to establish a full melt pool

Maximum: Never burn for more than 4 hours at a time

Cool down: Allow candle to cool for at least 2 hours before relighting

Placement & Environment

  • Stable surface: Always place on a heat-resistant, level surface
  • Away from drafts: Keep away from fans, vents, and open windows to prevent uneven burning
  • Clear space: Maintain at least 12 inches of clearance above the candle
  • Room temperature: Store candles in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight

Safety First

  • Never leave a burning candle unattended
  • Keep away from children, pets, and flammable materials
  • Don't move a candle while it's burning or the wax is liquid
  • Extinguish if the flame becomes too high or flickers repeatedly
  • Use a candle snuffer or lid to extinguish—avoid blowing out

When to Stop Using Your Candle

Discontinue use when 1/2 inch (12mm) of wax remains at the bottom. Burning beyond this point can cause the container to overheat and crack.

Cleaning & Repurposing

Once your candle is finished, clean out the vessel to repurpose it:

  1. Place the container in the freezer for a few hours
  2. The remaining wax will shrink and pop out easily
  3. Wash with warm soapy water
  4. Reuse as a planter, makeup brush holder, or storage container

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Tunneling

Cause: Not burning long enough on first use or subsequent burns

Fix: Burn until full melt pool is achieved each time

Smoking or Soot

Cause: Wick too long or candle in a drafty area

Fix: Trim wick and move to a draft-free location

Weak Scent

Cause: Room too large or poor air circulation

Fix: Use in appropriately sized rooms; gentle air circulation helps distribute fragrance

Uneven Burning

Cause: Drafts or off-center wick

Fix: Move away from drafts; gently adjust wick while wax is soft

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