Candle Burn Instructions
Last Updated: February 21, 2026
Thank you for choosing David's Light. Our hand-poured, non-toxic coconut-soy candles with pure essential oils are designed for a clean, even, long-lasting burn. Following these guidelines ensures optimal performance, safety, and enjoyment.
Before Lighting
- Trim the wick to ¼ inch (6 mm) before every burn. A longer wick can cause sooting, mushrooming, or uneven burning.
- Place on a stable, heat-resistant surface away from drafts, fans, vents, or open windows.
- Keep at least 12 inches from flammable items, children, and pets. Never leave burning candles unattended.
- Use a proper holder that contains melted wax.
Burning Instructions
The First Burn Is Critical
Allow the candle to burn until the entire top layer of wax melts edge-to-edge (full melt pool). This usually takes 2–4 hours depending on size. This prevents tunneling and sets the pattern for even future burns.
- Burn for 2–4 hours per session to reach a full melt pool.
- Do not exceed 4 hours per burn to avoid overheating.
- Keep wick centered (gently adjust while wax is warm if needed).
- Extinguish with a snuffer or by gently blowing out—never use water.
Safety Guidelines
- Never leave a burning candle unattended.
- Keep out of reach of children and pets.
- Keep at least 12 inches from anything that can catch fire (curtains, bedding, paper, etc.).
- Do not touch or move while burning or hot.
- Extinguish before leaving the room or sleeping.
- Discontinue use when ½ inch of wax remains to prevent overheating the container.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Tunneling | Burn time too short; wax doesn't melt to edges | Burn longer (2–4 hrs) next time for full melt pool. Fix existing: use heat gun or foil to melt edges gently. |
| Sooting / black smoke | Long wick, drafts, or impurities | Trim wick to ¼ inch, eliminate drafts, ensure clean burn environment. |
| Mushrooming (carbon buildup on wick) | Excess fuel from long wick or high fragrance load | Trim wick before each burn; remove mushroom after cooling. |
| Crackling / popping | Normal with wooden wicks or essential oils | Usually safe; trim wick if excessive. |
Storage Tips
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat.
- Keep lid on to preserve scent.
- Avoid extreme temperature swings (e.g., car, garage).
Contact Us
If you have questions or issues with burning, reach out:
Email: hello@davidslight.com
We respond within 24–48 hours (Monday–Friday).