How long a scented candle lasts and how well it smells depends a lot on how you burn it. With a few simple rules your candle burns evenly, without tunnelling or soot, right to the end.
1. The first burn: let the whole surface melt
The most important rule: the first time you light a candle, let it burn until the entire surface is liquid, right to the edge. Wax has a “memory” – if you blow it out too early, it will only ever melt as far as the first time and a tunnel forms in the middle.
- For a 90g tin this usually takes about 1–1.5 hours.
- For a 360g tin, plan about 2–3 hours.
2. Trim the wick before every use
Trim the wick to about 5 mm before each lighting. A wick that is too long produces a large, flickering flame, soot and black marks on the container. You can use a wick trimmer or small scissors – just remove the charred tip once the candle has cooled.
3. How long to burn a candle at once
Burn your candle for no longer than about 4 hours at a time. After that, the wick can mushroom and the flame becomes too large. Let the candle cool, trim the wick and light it again.
4. The right spot
- Avoid drafts from open windows, fans or doors – they make the flame flicker and cause soot and uneven burning.
- Place the candle on a heat-resistant surface, away from curtains, books and anything flammable.
- Keep candles out of reach of children and pets and never leave a burning candle unattended.
5. Put it out the right way
Snuff the flame with a candle snuffer or the lid instead of blowing it out – this keeps smoke and soot to a minimum. With our tins, simply place the lid on top once the flame is out and the tin has cooled a little.
6. When is a candle finished?
Stop using the candle when about 1 cm of wax is left at the bottom. Below that, the container can get too hot.
Burn times of ROHO candles
- 90g candle: about 15–20 hours
- 360g candle: about 50–60 hours
Our candles are hand-poured in Mallorca with 100% plant-based wax and cotton wicks. Discover all scents in our scented candles collection.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my candle tunnelling?
Usually because the first burn was too short. Next time, let it burn until the whole surface is liquid – this can often even out a shallow tunnel.
Why is my candle producing soot?
The wick is too long or the candle is in a draft. Trim the wick to about 5 mm and move the candle to a calmer spot.
Can I burn a candle for more than 4 hours?
We don't recommend it. After about 4 hours, let the candle cool, trim the wick and relight it.