How to Maintain the Quality of Scented Candles Over Time

1. Why Candle Care Matters

Scented candles are an excellent way to add warmth and ambiance to any space, but to get the most out of your candles, proper care is essential. Over time, candles can lose their fragrance, burn unevenly, or even develop a poor burn pool if not stored and used correctly. If you want your candles to last longer and maintain their beautiful scent, understanding how to care for them is crucial.

Whether you're new to candles or an experienced collector, learning how to preserve their quality will ensure your investment in luxurious aromas continues to bring you relaxation and joy for months or even years. In this article, we’ll share the best practices for candle care, tips for storing your scented candles, and how to avoid common mistakes that can affect their quality.

2. Best Practices for Preserving Scented Candles

To maintain the fragrance and overall quality of your scented candles, here are some simple yet effective practices to follow:

2.1 Trim the Wick Regularly

One of the most important aspects of candle care is ensuring the wick is trimmed to about 1/4 inch before each burn. A long wick can cause the candle to burn too hot, which can shorten its life and lead to uneven melting. It also creates more soot, which affects both the candle's appearance and the air quality in your home.

2.2 Burn Candles for the Right Amount of Time

To get the most even burn, it's crucial to let your candle burn long enough for the wax to melt across the entire surface. This prevents the creation of “tunneling,” where the candle burns down the center but leaves unmelted wax on the edges. Typically, burning a candle for 2-4 hours will ensure even melting.

2.3 Keep the Candle Away from Drafts

Drafts and air circulation can cause a candle to burn unevenly or flicker. To avoid this, place your candles in a location where the air is still, such as a flat table or shelf away from windows or vents. A steady flame will burn the candle more consistently and help preserve the quality of the scent.

2.4 Avoid Overheating the Candle

Exposing your candles to heat for prolonged periods can cause the wax to melt too quickly, which leads to a faster burn rate. Avoid placing candles near heat sources such as radiators, stoves, or direct sunlight. This can distort the candle’s appearance and degrade the fragrance.

3. Common Mistakes to Avoid with Candles

While many people care for their candles with the best intentions, there are a few common mistakes that can impact their longevity and performance. Here are some things to avoid:

3.1 Letting the Candle Burn All the Way Down

It’s tempting to burn a candle until it’s completely gone, but this can damage the container and make it difficult to reuse. If you’re using a glass container, it’s best to stop burning the candle when there’s about 1/2 inch of wax left at the bottom. This will prevent the container from overheating and breaking.

3.2 Ignoring the Wax Pool

Leaving a candle burning without allowing the wax to form a full, even pool can cause tunneling and waste wax. Always ensure that the melted wax reaches the edge of the container during each burn, especially during the first burn.

3.3 Storing Candles in Warm or Humid Areas

Storing your candles in hot or humid areas can cause them to melt prematurely or lose their scent. Always store your candles in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight or heat. If you're storing multiple candles, keep them in their original packaging to avoid the fragrance mixing between different candles.

4. How to Properly Store Scented Candles

Proper storage is key to preserving your candles' fragrance and ensuring they burn well over time. Here’s how to store scented candles correctly:

4.1 Keep Candles in a Cool, Dry Place

Heat and humidity can alter the wax’s consistency and cause your candle to lose its scent more quickly. A cool, dry closet or drawer is an ideal place for storing your candles. Just make sure they’re stored upright, and the wicks are not bent or deformed.

4.2 Avoid Storing Candles in Direct Sunlight

Sunlight can cause the wax to fade or discolour, and it can also lead to the loss of fragrance. Store your candles in a box or a covered container to protect them from direct light.

4.3 Keep the Lids On

If your candles come with lids, make sure to keep them on when not in use. This helps prevent dust from settling on the candle, protects the fragrance, and keeps the candle in optimal condition.

5. Shop for High-Quality Scented Candles

At Scent Snob, we offer a range of premium scented candles designed to enhance your space with exquisite aromas. If you want to enjoy your candles for longer and maintain their high-quality fragrance, explore our carefully curated collection of scented candles. Click here to shop now and discover how you can keep your candles in perfect condition!