Ever noticed your candle burning unevenly or leaving wax stubbornly clinging to the sides? You’re not alone. There’s a simple explanation: the full melt pool.
A full melt pool occurs when the wax melts completely across the entire surface of the candle during each burn. Achieving this isn’t just satisfying to watch — it’s essential for making the most of your candle.
Why It Matters
The very first burn is especially important because wax has a “memory.” If you extinguish your candle before the wax has had time to fully melt to the edges, it may continue to burn in that smaller ring during future burns. This creates “tunneling,” where wax remains along the sides, leaving you with a candle that doesn’t burn efficiently or last as long.
The Benefits of a Full Melt Pool
-
Even Burning: No wasted wax or uneven burning.
-
Stronger Fragrance Throw: A larger melt pool means more fragrance is released into your space.
-
Longer Life: Burning your candle correctly helps it last longer and ensures a cleaner, more complete use.
How to Achieve It
On your first burn, plan to keep your candle lit for about 3 to 4 hours, or until the wax has melted all the way across the surface. This helps set the memory, making future burns more consistent. It’s a simple tip with a big payoff.
And don’t forget the basics of candle safety: never leave a burning candle unattended, always trim your wick to ¼ inch before each use, and place your candle on a heat-resistant surface.
Light it up, let it pool, and enjoy the glow. Your candle will thank you for it.