Use:
Initial Lighting: Trim the wick to about ¼ inch (6mm) before lighting it for the first time. This helps achieve a cleaner burn and reduces smoke emissions.
Optimal Burning: Allow the candle to burn long enough so the wax pool can extend to the candle's edges on its initial burn. For subsequent uses, aim to burn the candle no more than 4 hours at a time to maintain its integrity.
Safety Precautions: Always place your candle on a stable, heat-resistant surface, away from drafts, children, pets, and anything flammable. Never leave a lit candle unattended.
Care:
Regular Wick Maintenance: Before each use, trim the wick to ¼ inch to encourage an even and safe burn. This prevents the candle from smoking and ensures a more controlled flame.
Cleaning Wax Spills: In case of spills, wait for the wax to harden before attempting cleanup. Use a dull instrument, like a plastic scraper, to gently remove hardened wax from surfaces.
Proper Storage: Store your candles in a cool, dry place away from sunlight to avoid deformation or discoloration. Natural beeswax may develop a white film known as "bloom," which can be gently polished away with a soft cloth, restoring the candle's smooth surface.
Avoiding Water: Keep candles dry; if they become wet, dry gently with a soft, lint-free cloth.
Hugging Your Candle:
What is Hugging?: As your candle burns, gently fold or "hug" the softer edges inward toward the flame. This technique helps utilize more of the beeswax, promoting an even melt and extending the candle’s life.
When to Hug: Perform this practice when the candle has been burning long enough to create a significant wax pool but the edges start to build up. Hugging helps to prevent tunneling and ensures a uniform use of the wax.
How to Hug Safely: Use caution when hugging your candle. The wax will be warm, so proceed gently and avoid contact with the flame. It's best done when the wax pool is deep enough but not so hot as to cause discomfort or burns.
Additional Tips:
Even Burns: Keep your candle away from drafts to prevent uneven burning. If you notice an uneven wax pool, gently adjust the candle’s position or the environment to correct it.
Dealing with Drips: While designed to minimize mess, if your candle begins to drip, quickly adjust its position to level it out, preventing unwanted drips.
End of Life: Discontinue use of your candle when about half an inch (roughly 12mm) of wax remains. Continuing beyond this point can overheat the container or surface.
By embracing these use and care instructions, including the hugging technique, you'll enhance the burning efficiency, safety, and overall aesthetic of your Pure British Beeswax Drip Candles, making each moment lit with them even more special.
