Here’s how to trim candle wicks safely and correctly:
- 1. Wait for the candle wax to cool
- 2. Determine the right candle wick length: 3/8 of an inch
- 3. Gently trim the candle wick with a wick trimmer or scissors
- 4. Toss the trimmed wick in the trash
- 5. Trim the candle wick before each burn
Picture this: you’re lighting your favorite candle after a long day, ready to soak in the cozy ambiance. But instead of a warm, even glow, you get flickering flames and soot clouds—a total vibe killer. Sound familiar? The culprit might just be your candle wick.
Trimming your candle wick may not seem like a big deal—maybe it’s never even crossed your mind. But it’s one of the simplest ways to ensure your candles burn beautifully and safely.
In this guide, you’ll see exactly why this small habit makes a big difference and how to do it right. Grab your favorite Havilah & Co. candle, and let’s dive into the wick-whispering magic.
1. Wait for the Candle Wax to Cool
Never try to trim your candle wick if the wax is still warm. Not only is it messy, but it can also cause uneven wax distribution, leading to tunneling—when the candle burns straight down the center and wastes all that luscious wax around the edges.
Let the wax cool and solidify completely. Think of it as giving your candle a reset button before its next performance. Plus, you’ll avoid accidentally dunking your fingers in hot wax (ouch).
Here’s the golden rule: Your candle wick should be about 3/8 of an inch long, or roughly the width of your pinky finger before you light it. If the wick is too long, you’ll end up with an oversized flame, soot stains, and a faster burn. If it’s too short, the flame might sputter out or fail to melt the wax evenly.
By keeping your wick at this sweet spot, you’ll enjoy a steady flame, a cleaner burn, and the maximum lifespan of that toxin-free coconut wax we’re so proud of at Havilah & Co.
3. Trim the Candle Wick Gently
Now it’s time to talk about tools. The ideal choice for this job is a candle wick trimmer. These nifty gadgets are designed to snip wicks to the perfect length without scattering trimmed pieces everywhere. If you don’t have one, no worries—you can use nail clippers, kitchen scissors, or even a pair of sharp tweezers in a pinch.
The key is to trim gently and avoid pulling or yanking the wick. A clean cut keeps the fibers intact, ensuring an even burn next time you light your candle.
4. Toss the Trimmed Wick in the Trash
Always throw away your excess wick trimmings before lighting your candle. Leaving trimmed wick pieces in the candle jar can interfere with the flame or create smoky burns. Just toss the trimmings in the trash to keep your candle’s surface clean and ready for its next use.
Pro tip: If you’re as obsessed with a tidy home as we are, make it a habit to trim your candle wick before each burn. It’s a small step, but it keeps your space looking—and smelling—amazing.
5. Check the Candle Wick Before Each Burn
Consistency is key when it comes to candle care. Before lighting your candle, give the wick a quick inspection to make sure it’s the right length and free of any residue. This quick check prevents uneven flames and maximizes the life of your candle.
Remember: candles are like relationships—they thrive with a little TLC.
Common Questions About Trimming Candle Wicks
Before we wrap up, let’s tackle a few common questions about trimming candle wicks. Consider this your quick reference guide to all things wick-related.
Do You Have to Trim Candle Wicks?
The short answer: Yes! Trimming your candle wick helps prevent smoke, soot, and excessive heat. It also ensures your candle burns evenly, so you get the most out of every Havilah & Co. creation.
What Length Should You Trim Candle Wicks To?
The ideal candle wick length is 3/8 of an inch—about the width of your pinky finger. This length keeps the flame steady and reduces the risk of soot stains or wasted wax.
Can You Use Regular Scissors to Cut Candle Wicks?
Absolutely. While a candle wick trimmer makes the job easier, regular scissors work just fine. Just make sure they’re sharp and precise enough to get a clean cut.
How Do You Fix a Candle Wick That’s Too Short?
If your wick ends up too short, don’t panic. Pour off a little melted candle wax (once it’s cooled) to expose more of the wick. Light it carefully, and it should burn like normal.
The World’s Best Smelling Candles for a Cause
At Havilah & Co., our non-toxic candles are more than just a way to elevate your home’s ambiance—they’re a vehicle to spread light and hope to those who need it most. For each candle we sell, we give away 50% of our profits to empower aspiring entrepreneurs to build sustainable businesses, unlock their potential, and make a meaningful impact.
What started as a plan to create safe, natural candles has quickly blossomed into a company built on faith, transparency, and giving back.
So, go ahead—light up your space with confidence and know that every flicker carries the glow of hope and opportunity for aspiring entrepreneurs across the globe.
