FAQs
Your candle is crafted to elevate your space—here’s how to ensure it burns beautifully and safely, and lasts as long as possible.
How do I care for my candle to ensure the best burn?
First Burn is Key: Let your candle burn long enough for the entire surface to melt (typically 1 hour per inch of diameter). This prevents tunneling and ensures an even burn every time.
Trim the Wick: Before each burn, trim the wick to ¼ inch. This ensures a clean, controlled flame and extends the life of your candle.
Limit Burn Time: We recommend burning your candle for no more than 4 hours at a time. After extinguishing, let the wax fully cool and harden before relighting.
Why is my candle tunneling (burning straight down the middle)?
Tunneling occurs when the first burn is too short. To avoid this:
On the initial burn, allow the wax to melt across the entire surface.
If tunneling occurs, use a heat gun or foil trick (wrap foil around the edges and let the candle burn) to reset the wax pool.
Why is there black smoke or soot while burning?
Black smoke can occur if the wick is too long or the candle is in a drafty area. Extinguish the candle, trim the wick, and ensure the candle is placed away from vents, fans, or windows.
Why does my candle have a rough or uneven surface after burning?
This is normal with natural waxes like coconut-soy. It’s purely cosmetic and does not affect performance. Store your candle at room temperature and avoid placing it near heat or cold drafts. This won’t affect the burn or fragrance.
Why does my candle appear to sweat or show wet spots inside the jar?
Temperature fluctuations can cause wax to pull away from the glass. Store your candle at room temperature and avoid placing it near heat or cold drafts. This won’t affect the burn or fragrance.
Our candles are designed to offer a luxurious, subtle scent throw. If the fragrance feels faint:
Allow the candle to burn long enough to create a full melt pool.
Burn in smaller spaces for a stronger scent presence.
Ensure the room isn’t overly ventilated.
Why is my candle cracking after cooling?
Cracking can happen if the room is too cold during cooling. While this won’t affect the candle’s performance, avoid placing candles near windows or in colder environments.
How do I get the longest life out of my candle?
Trim the wick regularly and avoid burning for longer than 4 hours at a time. Stop burning your candle once only ¼ inch of wax remains to avoid overheating the jar.
Is it normal for the wax to discolor over time?
Yes—natural ingredients may cause slight variations in color. This reflects the use of natural oils and does not affect the candle’s performance.
Can I reuse the jar once the candle is finished?
Absolutely. Our candle vessels are designed to be repurposed. To clean the jar:
Place it in the freezer for a few hours, then pop out the remaining wax with a spoon.
Wipe the inside with warm, soapy water.
What type of wax do you use in your candles?
Our candles are crafted using a coconut-soy wax blend—chosen for its clean burn, long-lasting properties, and exceptional scent throw.
Can I return or exchange my candle if I experience an issue?
We take pride in the craftsmanship of our candles. If you encounter any issues, please reach out to our team at studio@tropicofcapricorn.net, and we’ll be happy to assist.