Tips to make your candles last longer

```markdown **Tips to Make Your Candles Last Longer** You’ve finally settled in after a long day. Tea in hand, cozy blanket wrapped around you, you strike a match and light your favorite candle. The soft glow and calming fragrance fill the room, signaling to your brain that it’s time to unwind. But have you ever noticed that some candles seem to disappear faster than others? If you love incorporating candles into your self-care routine, knowing how to extend their burn time can help you make the most of each peaceful moment. Not only does this save you money, but it also reduces waste—an important part of creating a sustainable, eco-friendly home. At Prana Candles, we believe every candlelit moment should be meaningful and long-lasting. Whether you're using candles for relaxation, meditation, or to create a comforting atmosphere, here are some simple yet effective tips to make your candles last longer while embracing mindful living. ## 1. Trim Your Wick Before Each Burn One of the simplest ways to extend the life of your candle is by trimming the wick to about 1/4 inch before each use. A long wick creates a larger flame, which can cause your candle to burn too hot and too quickly. It can also lead to soot buildup on the container, making your candle look less inviting. A properly trimmed wick ensures a clean, slow burn and helps prevent tunneling. ## 2. Let the Wax Pool Reach the Edges on the First Burn The first time you light a candle, allow it to burn until the melted wax reaches the edges of the container. This prevents tunneling—a common issue where wax builds up along the sides, making it harder for the candle to burn evenly in the future. As a rule of thumb, let your candle burn for at least one hour per inch of its diameter to create an even melt pool. ## 3. Avoid Drafts and Direct Wind Candles burn best in a stable environment. If your candle is placed near an open window, ceiling fan, or air vent, the breeze can cause the flame to flicker and burn unevenly. This can lead to wasted wax and a shorter burn time. Find a calm, stable spot for your candle where it can glow undisturbed. ## 4. Store Your Candles Properly Heat and sunlight can impact the longevity of your candles. To preserve their fragrance and wax consistency, store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If you’re someone who loves having a collection of candles for different moods, keeping them covered when not in use helps maintain their scent and quality. ## 5. Burn Your Candle in Intervals It might be tempting to keep your candle burning for hours on end, but excessive burning reduces its lifespan. Ideally, burn your candle for 2-4 hours and then let it rest. This allows the wax to solidify properly, preventing excessive wax consumption and prolonging its use. ## 6. Repurpose the Glass Container Once your candle has reached the end of its life, don’t let the beautiful glass container go to waste. Try freezing the leftover wax, then gently removing it to clean out the container. You can then repurpose it as a planter, a storage jar, or even a decorative piece in your home—another small step toward a more eco-friendly home. ## Making Candlelight a Mindful Ritual The simple act of lighting a candle can be transformed into a soothing self-care ritual. Close your eyes, take a deep breath, and set an intention for the moment—whether it’s relaxation, creativity, or gratitude. Pairing your candle ritual with meditation, journaling, or a warm bath can enhance your well-being and help you embrace the present moment. By taking small steps to care for your candles, you’re not just making them last longer—you’re cultivating a more intentional, mindful way of living. If you're looking for beautiful sustainable candles to elevate your space, explore our collection [here](https://pranacandles.co/collections/explore-our-most-loved-candles). ## FAQs ### 1. What should I do if my candle starts tunneling? Tunneling happens when wax builds up on the sides of the container, making it difficult for the candle to burn evenly. To fix it, try wrapping aluminum foil around the top of the candle (leaving an opening for the flame) and let it burn until the wax melts evenly across the surface. ### 2. Can I use a candle warmer instead of lighting the wick? Yes! A candle warmer gently heats the wax, releasing its fragrance without an open flame. This is a great alternative if you want to enjoy the scent for longer without burning the wax too quickly. ### 3. Is it safe to burn candles all the way to the bottom of the jar? It’s best to stop burning your candle when about ½ inch of wax remains. Burning it until the bottom can cause the glass container to overheat and potentially crack. ### 4. How do I remove excess wax from my candle jar for repurposing? Place the jar in the freezer for a few hours—the wax will shrink and pop out easily. Alternatively, you can pour boiling water into the jar, let the wax float to the top, and remove it once cooled. ### 5. Why does my candle smell weaker over time? Exposure to heat and air can cause the fragrance oils in your candle to dissipate. To keep the scent strong, store your candles in a cool, enclosed space when not in use. Keeping the lid on when the candle isn't burning can also help preserve its fragrance. Enjoy your candles mindfully, and may every flicker bring warmth and peace to your space. 🕯✨ ```