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Candle Care and Burning Tips: Your FAQs Answered


We believe in the beauty and purity of all-natural, handcrafted candles. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you get the most out of your candle experience.

Q: What is the proper burn time for a candle? A: To get the best results, burn your candle for 1 hour per inch of its diameter during the first use. Make sure to burn it until the melt pool reaches the edge of the container. This helps the candle create a memory burn and prevents tunneling.

Q: What is hot and cold throw? A: The cold throw is the scent you smell when the candle is unlit. The hot throw is the scent released when the candle is burning. Both are important for a great candle experience.

Q: How can I prevent tunneling? A: To prevent tunneling, always let the candle burn long enough for the melt pool to reach the edge of the container during each use. This ensures an even burn and maximizes the candle's life.

Q: How do I trim the wick, and why is it important? A: Trim the wick to about 1/4 inch before each burn. This helps the candle burn evenly, reduces soot, and prevents "mushrooming," which is when the wick forms a mushroom-like shape at the tip. Check out our candle care collection here!

Q: What is mushrooming? A: Mushrooming happens when carbon builds up on the wick, causing it to form a bulbous tip. Trimming the wick regularly can prevent this and ensure a cleaner burn.

Q: Why do soy and natural wax candles sometimes look uneven compared to paraffin candles? A: Natural waxes like soy can have slight imperfections because they don't contain additives that make them look perfect. These variations are normal and don't affect the candle's performance.

Q: What are the benefits of soy wax compared to paraffin? A: Soy wax is all-natural, renewable, and burns cleaner than paraffin wax, which is a byproduct of petroleum. Soy wax also has a longer burn time and supports American farmers.

Q: Can I burn my candle near an open window or air vent? A: It's best to avoid burning candles near drafts, open windows, or air vents. Air currents can cause uneven burning and reduce the candle's lifespan.

Q: How does burning a candle compare to cooking or doing laundry? A: Strong scents from cooking or laundry can overpower the candle's fragrance. For the best experience, burn your candle when other strong odors are not present.

Q: What is a candle snuffer and why should I use it? A: A candle snuffer (or damper) is a tool used to extinguish the flame without creating smoke. Using a snuffer helps maintain the candle's scent and keeps the wick in good condition.

Q: Why do Paulette Maray candles have slight variations? A: Our candles are handcrafted and all-natural, so slight variations are normal and add to their unique charm. Unlike mass-produced candles with additives, each Paulette Maray candle is special and made with care.

Q: I'm burning my candle and I don't smell anything. Why? A: There are a few reasons why you might not be smelling your candle:

  • Room Size: In larger rooms, the fragrance might disperse more and become less noticeable.
  • Air Flow: Drafts from windows, fans, or air vents can carry the scent away.
  • Nose Fatigue: After being in a room for a while, your nose can become accustomed to the scent.
  • Scent Strength: Some scents are naturally lighter and more subtle than others.
  • Cold Throw vs. Hot Throw: Make sure the candle has burned long enough for the fragrance to fully release.
  • Cooking or Doing Laundry? Strong smells in your home can mask the scent of your candle.

Q: Are there any other tips for enjoying my Paulette Maray candle? A: Always burn your candle on a heat-resistant surface, keep it away from children and pets, and never leave it unattended. Enjoy the natural, clean burn and lovely scent that our candles provide!

We hope these tips help you enjoy your Paulette Maray candles to the fullest. Comment below with any questions or comments!

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