How to Fix & Prevent Candle Tunneling
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How to Fix and Prevent Candle Tunnelling
Candle tunnelling happens when a candle burns down the centre, leaving unburned wax around the edges. This issue can reduce burn time, fragrance, and overall enjoyment of your candle. Luckily, there are easy steps to prevent and fix tunnelling.
Why Candle Tunnelling Occurs
Candle tunnelling usually happens when the candle doesn’t burn long enough on the first few uses, causing only the centre wax to melt. As the wax hardens, it creates a “memory ring” that the candle continues to follow in future burns. This pattern results in a “tunnel” down the centre and wasted wax along the sides.
Preventing Candle Tunnelling
1. Burn for an Even Wax Pool on the First Use
- Allow your candle to burn long enough for the melted wax pool to reach the edge of the container. For most candles, this takes about 2-4 hours.
- This ensures that the candle has an even memory and will burn evenly in the future.
2. Trim the Wick
- Trim the wick to around 1/4 inch before each burn to maintain a controlled flame, which promotes a slower, even burn.
Fixing Candle Tunnelling
If you’re already dealing with tunnelling, try these methods to bring your candle back to life.
1. Aluminium Foil Method
- Wrap a piece of aluminium foil around the top edge of the candle, forming a “hat” with an open centre. This traps heat around the wax near the edges, causing it to melt and even out.
- Leave the foil on for about 30 minutes but keep an eye on the candle to ensure it doesn’t overheat.
2. Heat Gun or Hair Dryer Method
- Carefully melt the top layer of wax around the edges using a heat gun or a hair dryer. Start from a safe distance and gradually move closer to avoid damaging the candle jar. The softened wax will settle back into the pool, levelling the surface.
3. Use a Candle Warmer
- Another option is to use a candle warmer, which heats the entire candle evenly without burning the wick. This method allows you to melt all of the wax, evening out the surface.
Video Tutorial
For a visual guide, watching a video on how to fix candle tunnelling can be incredibly helpful for step-by-step visuals How To Fix A Tunnelling Candle?
By following these steps, you can ensure your candles burn beautifully, maximizing their lifespan and fragrance!