Candle Care 101: How to Burn Candles Properly and Make Them Last Longer

At ApoThera, we believe candles are more than just a scent—they’re a moment of peace, a simple ritual of self-love, and a reminder to slow down and reconnect with yourself. Whether you're unwinding after a tough day or creating a peaceful space to reset, your candle is there to help you breathe deeply and hold that space for calm.

With a little mindful care, your candle can burn longer, cleaner, and more beautifully—turning each flicker into a lasting ritual of serenity.

🕯 Candle Care Guide: How to Get the Most Out of Your Candle

1. First Burn: Set the Memory Right

The very first time you light your candle, let it burn for 2–3 hours, until the wax melts all the way to the edges. This helps create a full melt pool and prevents tunneling.

🌿 Let the first burn be slow and mindful—just like the journey of healing itself.

2. Burn Time: Keep It Between 2–4 Hours

Burning your candle for too long can cause the wick to “mushroom,” the flame to grow too large, or the container to overheat.

⏳ Shorter burn times keep your flame steady and your space safe.

3. Trim the Wick Before Every Burn

Keep the wick trimmed to ¼ inch (6mm) before each burn.

• • Keeps the flame calm and steady
  • Prevents smoke and soot
  • Helps your candle last longer

✂️ A shorter wick gives you a gentler glow and a cleaner burn.

4. Put Out the Flame Gently

Instead of blowing it out:

• • Use a candle snuffer for a smoke-free finish.
  • Or dip the wick into the wax with a wick dipper and lift it back up.

☁️ Quiet endings make for better beginnings.

5. Store It With Care

• Keep your candle in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Always cover the candle when not in use to preserve its scent.
• Avoid burning near drafts or fans to prevent uneven burning.

🪨 A steady space helps your candle stay grounded and calm.

6. Know When to Let Go

When only about ½ inch (1.2 cm) of wax remains, it’s time to say goodbye. Burning beyond this point can damage the container or become unsafe.

🔄 Repurpose the jar as a keepsake, a planter, or simply as a reminder of a moment of calm.

⚠️ Candle Safety Tips You Shouldn’t Ignore

• Never leave a burning candle unattended.
• Always burn on a heat-resistant surface and away from flammable materials.
• Keep candles out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not burn for more than 4 hours at a time.
• Allow the container to cool completely before handling or moving.
• Stop using the candle when ½ inch of wax remains.

🕯 Candle care isn’t just maintenance—it’s a mindful practice. It’s about creating space for peace and treating your surroundings—and yourself—with care and intention.

🌿 Light With Intention. Burn With Care.

Each time you care for your ApoThera candle, you nurture your own inner light.

✨ Let it glow. Let it last. Let it heal.

 

Ready to create more mindful moments? Explore Our Candle Collection