How do I make a candle last longer?

Trim the wick to about 5 mm before each use, let the whole top layer melt on the first burn, and avoid burning for more than four hours at a time. That keeps the candle even and longer-lasting.

Why does my candle tunnel down the middle?

That is called tunnelling and happens when the candle is put out before the whole top layer has melted. Let it burn one to two hours on the first use to prevent it.

Care

How long does a scented candle burn?

Burn time depends mostly on the size of the candle and on how you use it. With a little care you get the most out of every candle — and avoid an uneven or too-fast burn.

Burn time by size

At Elenvelle, small candles burn for about 22–25 hours, medium candles 45–65 hours and large candles 180–200 hours. That is the total spread across many sittings, not in one go.

The first burn sets the rest

On the first use, let the candle burn long enough for the whole top layer to melt — usually one to two hours. This prevents a hollow "tunnel" down the middle and keeps the candle burning evenly to the edge afterwards.

Trim the wick

Trim the wick to about 5 mm before each use. A short wick gives a clean, steady flame, less soot and a longer burn time. Avoid burning a candle for more than about four hours at a stretch.

Frequently asked

How do I make a candle last longer?: Trim the wick to about 5 mm before each use, let the whole top layer melt on the first burn, and avoid burning for more than four hours at a time. That keeps the candle even and longer-lasting.
Why does my candle tunnel down the middle?: That is called tunnelling and happens when the candle is put out before the whole top layer has melted. Let it burn one to two hours on the first use to prevent it.