How to Burn a Pillar Candle Evenly
Wondering how to burn a pillar candle evenly? Start with its own care instructions, a level surface and a position away from draughts. The aim is a steady, controlled burn that suits the candle's design.
First, check which candle you have
A freestanding pillar, a recessed pillar and a candle in a jar are not interchangeable. Their shapes and intended burn patterns can differ. In particular, do not apply the common advice to melt a jar candle right to its edges automatically to a decorative or recessed pillar.
Read the instructions supplied with your chosen style before lighting it. If you are unsure how your candle should burn, ask us about that specific product rather than trying to force an edge-to-edge melt.
Choose a level, draught-free position
Set your pillar on an appropriate heat-resistant holder or tray on a stable, level surface. Keep it clear of curtains, decorations and other flammable materials. A tilted surface or a breeze from a window, fan or air conditioner can contribute to an uneven flame and wax melting more on one side.
Never move a candle while it is burning or while its wax is liquid. If its position needs changing, extinguish it and wait until it has cooled fully first.
Follow the wick-care instructions
Before each burn, check the wick and remove loose debris from the wax surface when the candle is cold. Trim the wick only as directed for your particular candle. Do not guess a universal wick length or cut deeply into the wax.
If the flame becomes unusually large, flickers persistently or produces visible smoke, extinguish the candle safely. Allow it to cool, then check the wick and surroundings against its care instructions before relighting.
Use the recommended burn sessions
Follow the recommended burn-session length and stopping point supplied with your candle. Overall burn time and the maximum time for a single session are different things. Do not keep a candle burning beyond its instructions just to correct an uneven surface.
Burn only while you can supervise it. Keep children and pets away, and extinguish the flame before leaving the room or going to sleep. Never use water to put out a candle.
What if your pillar is already burning unevenly?
Let it cool completely and check that the surface is level, the position is free of draughts and the wick has been maintained as instructed. Avoid improvised fixes such as wrapping a carved pillar in foil, cutting away its decorative walls or using an oven to melt the top. Contact us for guidance specific to your candle if the problem continues.
Explore Damask, Cherry Blossom, Chrysanthemum, Palm and Twine candles, and keep the care instructions for your selected style handy.
