Candles are one of life’s greatest little luxuries. They instantly set the mood, making any space — whether it’s a living room, a bedroom, or a bathroom — feel cozy while smelling incredible. But while lighting a candle may seem effortless, for safety’s sake, there’s actually some science behind how long you should let that…
Burn it too briefly, and you’ll waste wax; burn it for too long, and you could damage the candle or the surface it sits on. Follow these simple burn-time guidelines to get the most glow for your buck.
Why You Shouldn’t Burn a Candle for More Than Four Hours
While there’s no need to set a timer, you should be careful not to burn a candle for longer than four hours at a time. After that mark, the wick can develop a “mushroom” — a carbon buildup that causes popping, uneven flames, and extra smoke. That’s not a relaxing way to bask in candlelight.
Excessive burn times also create a safety hazard. While candle jars are designed to handle warmth, they’re not intended to handle hours of intense heat. If the glass overheats, it can crack or shatter, which could lead to hot wax and broken glass all over your furniture.
How Long To Burn a Candle for Even Wax
Candle connoisseurs know the first burn is the most important. Don’t light it 15 minutes before your bedtime — it’s imperative to give the wax enough time to melt evenly across the entire vessel. This prevents the dreaded “tunneling” effect, where wax clings stubbornly to the sides (though there are tricks to fixing a tunneled candle).
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So, how long should you let a candle burn? Burning it for one to three hours at a time will maximize your candle’s lifespan while keeping your home safe.
A little wick trim goes a long way. For a cleaner, longer-lasting burn, snip the wick to about a quarter-inch before each lighting. This step helps prevent wick mushrooming, reduces smoke, and keeps the flame even.
