11 Candle Mistakes Experts Say You're Probably Making

Always trim wicks before burning candles. “Trimming the wick to 1/4 of an inch before each burn helps improve the flame and makes for a more safe and gentle burning process and less soot,” says Andalyn Warren, creative director at Paddywax.

In multi-wick candles, Miller says wicks should be trimmed evenly.

“Placing your candle on a flat, heat-resistant surface and away from children, pets, and curtains is the best place for a candle while in use,” Warren says.

The placement also affects burn quality. “Moving air can disturb the flame, contribute to soot, and create an uneven burn,” Miller explains.

“Burning the candle for a long enough time for the wax to pool across the entire surface helps prevent tunneling,” Warren explains.

And while this is an important step in candle care, Miller notes, “never keep it burning beyond the manufacturer’s maximum simply to force the wax to reach the edge.”

“A snuffer is useful because it limits wax splatter,” Miller shares. He cautions against using water as hot wax can splatter, and says you shouldn’t use the lid, unless instructed to.

“Make sure the flame and ember are fully out, then leave the candle exactly where it is until the wax has cooled and solidified,” Miller says.

Once the candle has been extinguished and it has had a chance to fully cool down, remove any debris and wipe the exterior if needed.

“Remove any carbon buildup or ‘mushrooming,’ along with wick trimmings, matches, or other debris from the wax,” Miller says.

“If the wick has drifted off-center, it may be gently repositioned after the flame is extinguished, while the wax remains liquid, using a suitable non-flammable tool,” Miller says. He explains the goal is to prevent the wick and flame from leaning toward one side of the vessel during the next burn.

You may want to get the most out of a candle, but Miller says you should never burn a candle all the way to the bottom. “Follow the maker’s guidance; for many container candles, use should end when approximately ½ inch of wax remains, while some vessels specify a different minimum,” he says.

“Taper candles vary in size and so it is important to place them snugly in a taper candle holder (you can twist and force them into a tight holder if needed) and make sure they are upright before lighting,” Warren says.

Because they can drip, Warren recommends placing them on easily wipeable surfaces.

“Storage matters because wax, fragrance, color, shape, wick, and vessel can all be affected by heat, sunlight, moisture, dust, and changing temperatures,” Miller shares. He recommends storing candles in a cool, dark, dry place with a relatively stable temperature. “Direct light can fade colored wax, and heat can soften, distort, or separate wax from its vessel,” Miller says.