How To Fix Candle Tunneling
What Is Candle Tunneling And What Causes It?
Candle tunneling is a common issue among candle enthusiasts. It occurs when the candle burns down in a tunnel-like shape, often resulting in an uneven burn and wasted wax down the sides of the jar.
Almost like a sunken meteor crater around the wick.
There are primarily two main culprits of candle tunneling:
Short candle burn time
Incorrect wick sizing
But ultimately, there are still a lot of factors at play when it comes to candle tunneling like a draft, flame size, or wax type.
Typically, soy wax candles are less susceptible to tunneling.
On the other hand, cheaper candles with slow-burning additives often tunnel, making them less cost-effective long-term.
Buying quality candles and using them properly reduces waste and saves money in the long term.
The Importance of the First Burn
The first burn is vital for the effectiveness of your candle.
Your wax has memory, the first burn often determines the radius of the melt.
That’s why it is imperative to let the first burn go on between 2-4 hours or until the pool of wax reaches the edges of the container.
A good rule of thumb is you should burn for at least one hour for every inch of the candle’s diameter.
If the candle didn’t burn for that long and the wax didn’t reach the edges of the container then tunneling will occur.
It will make it even harder to light the candle again because the “tunneled” wax surrounding the wick will be softer than the surrounding wax.
This will result in excess wasted wax unless you look at the methods below!
How To Fix A Tunneled Candle
If your candle has already tunneled, don’t worry! It’s easy to fix!
The goal of fixing tunneling is to have a smooth top layer.
You can achieve this by creating a liquid layer of melted wax along the entire candle. Then allow your candle to cool.
The Blow Dryer Method
If the tunneling is moderate, consider using a blow dryer to gently melt the surface layer of wax.
As it cools, it will become smoother and more even, enabling you to restart without any tunneling issues.
The Oven Method
If the tunneling is too severe for a hair dryer, consider using the oven instead.
Preheat your oven to 175 degrees Fahrenheit.
Place the candle on a sturdy pan and place it in the oven for approximately five minutes, ensuring to monitor closely as the wax begins to melt.
The duration in the oven may vary depending on the candle's size and the depth of the tunneling.
After the top layer of wax has fully melted, cautiously remove the candle from the oven, remembering to use oven mitts as the glass container will be hot.
Then allow the candle to cool completely.
The Foil Tent Method
Another method to address tunneling is the foil tent technique. Start by lighting the candle and then carefully placing a tent of aluminum foil over the top.
Make sure to create a small hole in the foil to allow smoke to escape.
As the candle burns, the foil will reflect heat back onto the wax, promoting even melting around the edges instead of just at the center.
Keep an eye on the candle, and remove the foil once the entire top layer of wax has melted evenly. The foil will be very hot, so use oven mitts or tongs to handle it.
Afterward, put out the candle and let the wax cool. Once cooled, the top should be level and ready for the next burn!
If necessary, trim the wick before relighting the candle.
The Scoop Method
For a quick fix to even out the wax, consider scraping away the excess with the back of a spoon or a butter knife.
Gently remove the unmelted wax along the edges of the candle to make it the same height or lower than the center.
Once done, light your candle and let it burn long enough for the wax pool to reach the edges of the container.
Instead of throwing away the excess wax you can reuse it in a wax melter or melt and pour it into a new container.
Just add a wick and there you go, a new candle!
Tip: Be sure to dispose of all wax in a waste bin. Wax can clog a drain!
Replace the Wick Method
As a last resort, you may need to replace the wick. You will need to remove the wax and the old wick:
Melt the candle wax in a double boiler or oven.
Place a new wick at the center of the candle container.
Gently pour the melted candle wax back into the container, making sure the wick remains centered.
Let the candle cool for at least 24 hours.
Enjoy your tunnel-free candle!
Reminder: Your first burn should be long enough for the wax to reach the edges of the container.
Candle Care Pointers
Conclusion
Since you are now a candle tunneling expert, go enjoy your candles with confidence!
If you’re looking for a new fragrance to add to your home, check out our 100% natural soy wax candles.
We want you to have the best burn for your buck, so enjoy!
-SerenityByBabs Team