Why Candles Tunnel? 5 Mistakes That Ruin Scented Candles
Scented candles can create a unique atmosphere of relaxation and tranquility in the home. However, sometimes, instead of a smooth sheet of wax, a narrow opening appears around the wick, leaving unused remnants on the sides. This phenomenon is called tunneling and affects both soy candles and other scented candles made with vegetable waxes or paraffin.
In this article, we explain why scented candles tunnel, what mistakes are most often made, and how to burn scented candles to enjoy the scent until the very end.
What is tunneling a scented candle?
Tunneling causes the wax to melt only in the central part of the candle, around the wick. Failure to melt evenly across the entire surface means the candle burns shorter, the scent is less noticeable, and a significant amount of wax remains unused. Of course, this isn't the way this process should be,
It's worth emphasizing that tunneling can indicate a manufacturing defect in the spark plug, but it's often the result of improper use. Let's start with the latter.
The first burning of the scented candle was too short
The first burning of a scented candle is crucial to its continued use. This is when the wax's so-called memory is established.
If the candle is extinguished after a few minutes, or even a few dozen minutes, the wax will only melt in certain areas. Subsequent burnings will cause the candle to revert to the same pattern, deepening the tunnel.
During the first burn, allow the entire surface of the wax to melt, up to the rim of the container. Depending on the candle's diameter, this usually takes two to three hours. This is the most important burn; each subsequent burn can be shortened. Let's treat the first burn as a ritual :)
Untrimmed wick
An excessively long wick is one of the most common causes of improper scented candle burning. It causes the flame to be too high, smoke to build up, and the candle's core to overheat (too high a temperature causes the oil to burn rather than release).
As a result, the wax melts unevenly and the candle begins to tunnel. To prevent this, the wick should be trimmed to a length of approximately three to five millimeters before each burning. This applies to both cotton and wooden wicks.
Putting out the candle too early
Scented candles are often lit briefly, for example, during a quick bath or dinner. Regular short burns promote the development of the scent and shorten the candle's actual burn time.
If you know you don't have at least a few dozen minutes, it's better to postpone lighting the candle. Scented candles burn best when they have a chance to warm up slowly and comfortably.
Burning a scented candle in a draft
The location of a scented candle has a huge impact on how it burns. Drafts, open windows, or active ventilation can cause an unstable flame and the wax to melt on one side.
To avoid tunneling, scented candles should be placed in a place protected from air movement, away from windows, balcony doors and ventilation grilles.
Improper extinguishing of a scented candle
Blowing on a candle is a habit that negatively affects not only the fragrance but also the structure of the wick. It causes smoke, a burning smell, and wax splattering.
A much better solution is to use a snuffer or gently dip the wick in melted wax and straighten it again. This will ensure the scented candle retains its pure scent and burns evenly the next time it is used.
Ambient temperature
The ambient temperature is crucial. If it's too low, the wax won't be able to heat up across its entire surface. Before being released, each candle is tested for, among other things, burning at room temperature, not at low temperatures. We often observe this tunneling phenomenon when attending festivals and fairs held in city squares during the winter season. In such cases, our candles, when left outside, tend to burn out like a mole burrowing in the ground; -10°C can effectively cool them down.
How to save a scented candle that is already tunneling?
If a tunnel has already appeared, the candle can still be saved. The simplest method is to level the wax surface with aluminum foil. Simply wrap it around the top of the candle, leaving a hole for the wick, and then burn it for one to two hours. The accumulated heat will help even out the wax. If excess wax appears, remove it as it can flood the wick and ultimately extinguish it.
Error on the manufacturer's side
Finally, it can also happen that, despite your best efforts, the candle still burns through a tunneling pattern. The fault may also lie with the candle itself, namely the wick itself being incorrectly matched to the container and mixture. This is, in fact, a very complex and lengthy process that takes a considerable amount of time for us as manufacturers.
Frequently asked questions about scented candles
Why do scented candles tunnel?
Scented candles most often tunnel due to the first burn being too short, the wick not being trimmed, or the candle being extinguished before the wax on the surface has completely melted.
Does tunneling mean the scented candle is defective?
No, not at all. Scented candle tunneling is most often the result of improper use, but it can also be the result of a manufacturing error.
Do natural scented candles also tunnel?
Yes. Natural scented candles, including soy candles and other plant wax candles, are more susceptible to burning errors.
How to burn scented candles so they don't tunnel?
To ensure scented candles burn evenly, ensure a long initial burn, trim the wick regularly, and avoid drafts.
Summary
Tunneling is one of the most common problems scented candle users encounter. The good news is that it can be easily prevented by following a few simple rules. Burning your candle properly not only saves wax but also ensures a richer fragrance experience and a longer period of relaxation.
