Have you ever lit a candle, only to find that it burns straight down the middle, leaving wasted wax along the sides? That’s called candle tunnelling, and it’s a common frustration for candle lovers. The good news? It’s preventable—and even fixable in some cases! Let’s dive into why tunnelling happens and how to get the most out of your candles.
What Causes Candle Tunnelling?
First Burn Mistakes – The first time you light a candle, the wax “remembers” how far it melted. If you don’t let the wax pool reach the edges, it creates a narrow tunnel that continues with each burn.
Wick Size – A wick that’s too small may not generate enough heat to melt the wax properly, leading to an uneven burn.
Drafts & Environment – Burning a candle in a breezy area can cause an uneven melt, pushing the flame to one side.
Short Burn Times – Blowing out a candle too soon, especially in the beginning, doesn’t allow the wax to fully melt, reinforcing tunnelling over time.
How to Prevent Candle Tunnelling
Commit to the First Burn – Let your candle burn long enough for the wax to melt evenly across the top. This usually takes 3-5 hours, depending on the candle’s diameter.
Trim Your Wick – Keep your wick trimmed to about 5 mm before each burn. This helps control the flame size and ensures an even melt.
Avoid Drafts – Place your candle in a stable, wind-free area so the flame burns evenly.
How to Fix a Tunnelling Candle
Already dealing with tunnelling? Try these methods:
Foil Method – Wrap aluminium foil around the edges of the candle (leaving an opening at the top) while it burns. This traps heat, helping melt the wax evenly.
Use a Hairdryer – Gently heat the top layer of wax with a hairdryer to smooth it out, then relight the candle and let it burn evenly.
Spoon & Reuse – If tunnelling is severe, scoop out the excess wax and repurpose it in a wax warmer to enjoy the scent.
Enjoy Every Bit of Your Candle!
A well-cared-for candle not only lasts longer but also burns beautifully, giving you the full experience of its scent and glow. By following these simple tips, you can prevent tunnelling and keep your candles burning evenly from start to finish. Happy burning!
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