5 Things to Know About Burning Candles | Candle Tips by Dandelion Chaos Scents
Hello fellow flame-lover,
Whether your candles live on altars, bookshelves, bathroom windowsills, or all of the above, lighting one is more than just scenting a room. It's a ritual. A little moment of magic. A pause in the chaos.
At Dandelion Chaos Scents, we believe in slow burns, soft chaos, and fully enjoying your candle's potential. So we want to simply share what we’ve learned—from trial, error, and melted surprises—to help make each burn a little brighter, cleaner, and longer-lasting.
Here are five things we think everyone should know about burning candles. No shame, no rules, just wisdom shared over a flickering flame.
1. The First Burn Shapes the Whole Journey
When you light a candle for the first time, the way the wax melts sets a "memory ring." If it only melts in the middle and you extinguish it too soon, future burns might follow that narrow path, leaving precious wax unmelted around the edges.
Let your candle burn until the top layer of wax melts edge-to-edge. Usually 2 to 3 hours does the trick. It’s not a rule—just a friendly tip for the most even, satisfying melt.
Why it matters: It helps prevent tunneling and extends your candle's life.
2. Wick Trimming Is Less of a Chore, More of a Ritual
Before each burn, give your wick a little trim. Keeping it at about ¼ inch above the wax is perfect. This keeps the flame steady and the burn clean. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about snipping a tiny wick with intention.
You don’t need fancy tools (though they’re nice). Scissors, nail clippers, or a bit of confident thumb work can do the job.
Why it matters: Reduces smoke, soot, and keeps your candle looking and performing beautifully.
3. Candles Like Calm Environments Too
Candle flames are sensitive souls. A breeze from a window, fan, or air vent can cause them to flicker, burn unevenly, or even leave sooty residue behind.
Set your candle somewhere quiet—away from drafts or flapping curtains. Think of it as creating a little sanctuary for your scent to do its best work.
Why it matters: Helps the wax melt evenly and improves scent throw.
4. Rest Between Burns Is Part of the Magic
As much as we love a long, dreamy burn session, candles do best with a bit of moderation. Burning too long (more than 4 hours at a time) can overheat the wax and lead to wick issues like mushrooming.
Give your candle a rest now and then. Let her cool fully between sessions. She'll reward you with a longer life and a cleaner burn.
Why it matters: Prolongs the life of your candle and keeps the scent true.
5. When the Flame Goes Out, the Care Continues
After blowing out your candle, let the wax cool and harden before moving it. If your jar gets a bit sooty, a soft cloth does wonders. And if your candle comes with a lid, pop it back on to keep the scent fresh.
These tiny acts of care help keep your candle happy—and your space looking lovely.
Why it matters: Keeps the experience clean, fragrant, and aesthetically pleasing.
A Final Whisper from the Wax
At Dandelion Chaos Scents, our candles are hand-poured in small batches with soy wax, cozy chaos, and scent blends inspired by wild gardens, strange dreams, and rainy afternoons. They're built to be lit, loved, and part of your daily magic.
So go ahead. Trim the wick. Set the mood. Let the light in.
No pressure. No perfection. Just candle joy, one burn at a time.
With flickers of love,
The Dandelion Chaos Crew