Candles can add a simple beauty to your home and decor, but many don't realize that there are proper ways to care for your candles! Proper candle care will not only help your candles burn longer but will also keep them looking beautiful and clean.  Here are some tips for getting the most out of your Charleston Candle Co. candles!

1. Prevent Tunneling

Do you ever see candles with giant craters in them? Wax against the sides of your candle jar and a giant tunnel down to the wick? Tunneling happens when candles aren't burned long enough to let the wax melt evenly across the top. This can cause ugly tunneling and also can create problems lighting your candle as wax will pool towards the middle instead of melt evenly. Be sure to allow the wax to fully melt across the top of the candles before blowing them out (especially during the first time it's burned).

2. Trim Your Wick

Wick trimmers aren't just for decoration - they actually help preserve the life of your candle! Each time you go to light your candle, trim the wick 1/4" (but make sure it's not TOO short). This not only helps the wick burn longer, but also lessens any black smoke or residue created by already burnt wicks.

Note: If you do happen to cut your wick too short and it will not light, dig out some of the wax from around the wick.

3. The 4 Hour Rule

To get the most life out of your candle (and as a general safety precaution), do not keep them burning for more than 4 hours at a time. Also remember to not burn candles in drafty areas or near anything flammable. Stop burning your candle once the wax is only 1/2" high.   

4. Candle Storage

When not burning your candle, store in a dry, cool area that is not in direct sunlight. UV rays can affect the coloring of candles if left in direct sunlight too long and the heat can cause unwanted melting.

5. Keep Dust and Debris Out

If you notice dust or debris collecting on the top of your candle, use a soft cloth to gently wipe the top to remove any build-up.