Trim a candle’s wick only when the candle is extinguished and completely cool. Follow its label; our current mason-jar candles call for about 1/4 inch before each burn.
A simple trimming routine
- Let the candle cool until the wax is solid.
- Use a wick trimmer or suitable scissors to remove the excess wick and any loose mushroomed tip.
- Remove every trimming from the wax.
- Check the jar for damage and choose a stable, heat-safe spot before lighting.
If you cut the wick too short
Do not dig into the candle with a knife or add improvised materials. If the wick will not stay lit under normal use, stop and contact the maker for product-specific advice.
Trimming is one part of candle care
Follow the candle’s instructions. For our current mason-jar candles, trim the cooled wick to about 1/4 inch before lighting, keep the wax clear of debris, and use a stable heat-safe surface. Keep the flame away from drafts and anything that can burn. Never leave a candle unattended; extinguish it before leaving or sleeping. Do not burn longer than four hours at a time, and stop when about 1/2 inch of wax remains.
Continue with our complete candle care guide.
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