So, you've got a fancy new candle, huh? Ready to set the mood, create some ambiance, or just cover up that weird smell coming from the kitchen? Well, before you go all willy-nilly and light that bad boy up, there are a few things you should know about how to burn a candle properly. Trust us, it's not as simple as just striking a match and calling it a day.

What's the Deal with Tunneling?

First things first, let's talk about tunneling. No, we're not referring to some underground adventure involving candles (although that does sound intriguing). Tunneling is when your candle burns straight down the middle, leaving a ring of wax around the edges. It's like the candle is playing hard to get, refusing to let you enjoy its full potential.

How to Avoid Tunneling

So, how do you avoid this candle conundrum? Easy peasy! The key is to let your candle burn long enough each time to create a full melt pool across the top. That means you need to let it burn for at least one hour for every inch in diameter. It's like giving your candle permission to show its true colors and shine bright like a diamond.

Get the Most Out of Your Candle

Now, let's talk about getting the most bang for your buck (or should we say, the most flicker for your wick?). To make sure you're maximizing your candle's burn time, always trim the wick to about a quarter of an inch before lighting it. Think of it as giving your candle a fresh haircut, ready to hit the town and impress all your guests with its glow.

Don't Be a Draft Dodger

Oh, and one more thing – don't be a draft dodger! Make sure to keep your candle away from any pesky drafts that could mess with its burn pattern. We don't want your candle to feel like it's in a wind tunnel, struggling to stay lit. Give it a cozy, draft-free environment to thrive in.

Candles are meant to be savored not wasted. With just a little know-how, you can enjoy a longer-lasting, better-burning candle and avoid the dreaded tunnel.

So, there you have it, folks! The secrets to burning a candle like a pro. Remember, it's not just about lighting a wick and calling it a day. Treat your candle right, and it will reward you with hours of glorious scent and ambiance. Now go forth and let those candles shine bright like a diamond!