Fall Candle Care 101: First Burn, Trim, and Safety

Good candle care begins before you light the match. A few easy habits make your candle safer to enjoy and help preserve the look of the wax, wick, and vessel.

Make the first burn count

For the first use, allow the candle to burn long enough for the surface wax to melt broadly and evenly, following the care guidance included with the product. This helps create a better foundation for future burns. Do not rush it, but do not burn a candle for excessively long stretches either.

Trim, place, watch

Before every burn, trim the wick to about one-quarter inch and remove loose debris. Keep the jar on a heat-resistant surface away from curtains, pets, children, drafts, and anything flammable. A candle should always be in sight while it is lit.

Finish the burn well

Allow the container to cool before moving it or relighting. Stop using the candle when only a small amount of wax remains, as directed by its safety label. Browse our current candle scents when you are ready for another cozy evening.

Pay attention to flame behavior

A wick that leans, mushrooms, or produces a high flame usually needs attention before the next burn. Let the candle cool, trim the wick, and remove loose residue. Do not try to trim a lit candle or move a hot jar.

Every vessel and wick combination is designed with specific use guidance, so the label should always be your final authority.