How to Prevent and Fix a Short Candle Wick
Masha Kesey
When it comes to the longevity of your candles, there are a few factors that can affect their lifespan. The type of wax used, the size and shape of the candle, as well as how it’s stored can all impact its burning time. Generally speaking, good quality paraffin or soy wax candles should last between 10-20 hours depending on their size.
The short answer is no, candles don’t expire or go bad, but their burning performance and quality can be impacted over time due to the stored air and humidity. To ensure your candles burn as beautifully as possible, it’s best to use them within 1-2 years of purchasing. Storing candles in a cool, dark place such as a cabinet or drawer can also help to preserve them for longer.
Yes, the scent of your candle may weaken over time due to stored air and humidity. Additionally, burning your candles for too long or in drafty areas can reduce their lifespan and have an impact on their scent throw.
Yes, depending on the type of wax used in your candle and how it’s stored, the color may fade over time. Paraffin candles, for example, are more prone to fading than soy or beeswax candles due to their higher melting point. To preserve your candle’s beautiful colors for longer, store them in a cool, dark place such as a cabinet or drawer. This will help them to retain their vibrant hues for longer.
To make your candles last longer, follow these tips:
– Trim the wick before each use
– Burn your candle for no more than 3-4 hours at a time
– Never leave a burning candle unattended
– Store them in a cool, dark place such as a cabinet or drawer
For the very best results, we recommend burning your candles within a year of unpacking them. There’s no hard and fast rule here, but following this suggestion will ensure that you enjoy maximum burn time!
The best way to tell if a candle has expired is by checking the burning performance and quality. If you notice that it’s not burning properly or isn’t producing enough scent, the candle may have expired.
While candles don’t have the same expiration date as food, they do degrade in quality over time. Eventually, their ability to light and burn properly may be compromised.
The longevity of a candle depends ultimately on the wax composition and how it is preserved; these are the two determining components.
Compared to other waxes, vegetable-based soy and coconut ones are more likely to break down with time. Once the breakdown has begun, you’ll find that it’s harder for a wick to light and keep burning because it becomes blocked as well.
In contrast, paraffin and beeswax candles are more reliable and if stored correctly can remain lit for a long-lasting amount of time.
