How to Save a Tunneling candle

Candle tunnelling has been one of the most common things that can go wrong with your candle. One of the most common reasons why this will occur is either when cheap candles are purchased and the wick isn’t strong enough to hold its capacity to melt correctly. Also the most common reason is when you don’t give the first burn enough time to melt to the rim of the jar it will most definitely cause a tunnel disaster.

What is candle tunnelling ?

It occurs when the candle begins to burn and starts to form a tunnel shape around the wick and it keeps travelling down not being able to reach the rim of the candle jar. This is very annoying especially when you have spent a large amount of money on a candle and this begins to happen.

Theres NO reason to start freaking out about it. It can be fixed in a few simple ways.

 

What can cause candle tunnelling?

This can be a big problem from the cool draft, to the size of the wick, even the ingredient of the wax that may have been used or additional additives.

 

How can you avoid the candle to not tunnel?

When we light a candle it is important we show some love for the candle and some time. If you know your about to leave the home soon and you don’t have at least 2-3 hours then I suggest you wait till your back home.

Making sure you always trim your candle wick, but not too short this can cause it to start burning incorrectly.

 

Candle Memory what is that?

That first burn will leave a memory in the wax, this is a true fact about wax can remember how the first burn begins. The first burn will always determine the way it melts. Candle science is extremely interesting and once you get the understanding it becomes extremely fascinating on how it works.

 

How to fix a candle that has already tunnelled ?

There are a few methods that can be used and you know your candle will repair.

Heat the Candle with a Blow Dryer

If the tunneling is mild, try using a blow dryer to melt the top layer of wax. It will become smoother and more level as it cools, allowing you to start over without the tunneling. 

Melt the Wax in Your Oven

If the tunneling is too deep for a hair dryer, try the oven. Preheat your oven to 175 degrees Fahrenheit. Then place the candle on a sturdy cookie sheet and put it in the oven for about five minutes. Keep a close eye on it as the wax begins to melt. Depending on the size of your candle and the depth of the tunnel, you may need to leave it in the oven for more or less time. Once the top layer of wax has completely melted, carefully remove your candle from the oven. Be sure to use oven mitts, as the glass container will be hot. 

Try the Foil Tent Method

Another option is the foil tent method. Light the candle, and then carefully place a tent of aluminium foil over the top. Poke a small hole in the top to allow the smoke to escape. As the candle burns, the foil will reflect heat back onto the wax, melting it around the edges instead of just in the centre. Keep a close eye on the candle, and carefully remove the foil once the entire top layer of wax has melted evenly. The foil will be extremely hot, so don’t grab it with your bare fingers! Use an oven mitt or tongs. Finally, blow out the candle and let the wax cool. Afterward, the top should be level and ready for the next burn. If necessary, trim the wick before using the candle again. 

 

Conclusion

Now that you understand that a candle can now be salvaged you will ensure to give your candle that extra love and time in the first few hours to avoid this situation but if it does to happen because simply the wick isn’t powerful you know there are ways to make sure you can fix it with a few methods.

Enjoy