What is wax tunnelling?

Candle wax tunnelling occurs when the flame of a candle burns down the centre of the wax, creating a tunnel-like hole. This can be frustrating for candle lovers, as it can cause the candle to burn unevenly and waste wax.

Preventing Wax Tunnelling in Candles: Tips and Techniques

What is wax tunnelling?

Candle wax tunnelling is a common issue that occurs when the flame of a candle burns down the centre of the wax, creating a tunnel-like hole. This can be frustrating and it is  aesthetically unappealing. Wax tunnelling can also shorten the overall burn time of your candle.

But fear not! There are several techniques and tips that you can use to prevent wax tunnelling in your candles. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your candles burn evenly and efficiently, giving you the most value for your money.

Tips for preventing wax tunnelling:

•      Trim the wick to the appropriate length: Before lighting your candle, make sure to trim the wick to about 0.5cm. If the wick is too long, it can cause the flame to be too large, which can lead to wax tunnelling. On the other hand, if the wick is too short, the flame may not be able to properly melt the wax, leading to an uneven burn.
•      Burn your candle for a sufficient amount of time: When you first light your candle, make sure to burn it for at least an hour. This will allow the wax to melt evenly and create a "memory burn," which helps prevent wax tunnelling in the future. By burning your candle for a longer period of time initially, you can create a wide, even pool of melted wax that will help the candle burn evenly for the rest of its life.
•      Avoid burning your candle in drafty areas: If your candle is burning in a drafty area, the flame may flicker and cause the wax to melt unevenly. To prevent this, try to burn your candle in a well-ventilated room that is free from drafts.
•      Use the right size candle for your candle holder: Make sure to use the appropriate size candle for your candle holder. If the candle is too small for the holder, it may not burn evenly and could lead to wax tunnelling. On the other hand, if the candle is too large for the holder, it may not be able to properly stabilize itself, leading to a wobbly and unstable flame.
•      Avoid burning your candle for more than four hours at a time: To prevent wax tunneling, it's best to burn your candle for no more than four hours at a time. This will allow the wax to melt evenly and prevent the flame from getting too large. By limiting the burn time of your candle, you can help ensure that it burns evenly and efficiently.

By following these tips, you can help prevent wax tunnelling in your candles and ensure that they burn evenly and efficiently. Happy candle-making!