The Ultimate Guide to Soy Candle Care

Lighting a candle is more than creating fragrance — it’s a ritual of calm, reflection, and warmth. To keep that experience as beautiful as possible, proper care makes all the difference.

Unlike paraffin, soy wax is a natural, biodegradable material that burns cleaner and longer. But it’s also softer and more delicate, meaning it needs a little extra attention. With a few simple habits, you can enjoy your soy candles safely, sustainably, and for many cosy evenings to come.

1. The First Burn Sets the Tone

The first time you light your soy candle, allow the wax to melt all the way to the edges of the container — this can take 2–4 hours depending on the candle size.

This step prevents “tunnelling”, where wax burns straight down the middle and leaves unused wax around the edges. Once the memory ring (the melted wax pool) reaches the sides, your candle will continue to burn evenly for future uses.

Pro Tip: Don’t rush the first burn — it’s the foundation for your candle’s entire life.

2. Trim the Wick Before Every Burn

Always trim the wick to about 5 mm (¼ inch) before lighting. Long or uneven wicks can produce tall flames, smoke, or black soot that clouds the jar.

Use wick trimmers or small scissors, and remove any wick debris from the wax before lighting. A neat wick ensures a steady flame and cleaner burn — key for extending candle life.

3. Burn in Intervals — But Not Too Long

While soy candles are designed for long burn times, it’s best to enjoy them in 2–4 hour sessions. Burning for too long can cause the wick to “mushroom,” leading to excessive soot and faster wax depletion.

Allow the wax to cool and harden completely before relighting. This helps preserve both scent quality and the candle’s smooth finish.

4. Keep Away from Draughts and Direct Sunlight

Airflow affects how your candle burns. Keep it away from open windows, fans, or vents that cause flickering and uneven wax melt.

Direct sunlight or heat can fade the fragrance oils and cause soy wax to soften or discolor. Store your candles in a cool, dry place to maintain their scent integrity and natural colour.

5. Watch the Wick Position

After each burn, check that the wick remains centered. If it drifts to one side, gently reposition it while the wax is still soft.

A centered wick ensures an even melt pool and prevents glass overheating on one side — especially in jar candles.

6. Use a Snuffer to Extinguish Flames

Blowing out candles can cause wax splatter and smoke. Instead, use a candle snuffer or gently dip the wick into the melted wax, then lift it upright again.

This seals the wick with wax, preventing after-smoke and making the next lighting cleaner.

7. Know When to Stop Burning

Once there’s about 1 cm (½ inch) of wax left at the bottom, it’s time to retire your candle. Burning it lower can cause the container to overheat or crack.

The remaining wax can be reused — scoop it out and melt it in a wax warmer to enjoy the last of the fragrance safely.

8. Clean and Repurpose Your Jar

Soy wax is water-soluble, making jars easy to clean once empty. Simply place the container in the freezer for an hour — the leftover wax will pop out easily.

Wash the jar with warm, soapy water and reuse it as a mini plant pot, storage jar, or tea-light holder.

9. Mind the Environment — and Your Health

Soy candles already have a lower environmental footprint than paraffin ones. For an even greener experience, choose candles with:

• Lead-free cotton or wooden wicks

• Phthalate-free fragrance oils

• Vegan, cruelty-free formulations

At Drie Winde, every candle is crafted from 100% natural soy wax, eco-friendly wicks, and vegan fragrance oils, ensuring a clean, safe burn for you and the planet.

10. Make It a Ritual

Candle care is more than maintenance — it’s mindfulness. Taking the time to trim, relight, and appreciate your candle becomes a calming ritual of self-care.

Each moment of flame and fragrance reminds you to slow down, breathe deeply, and savour the simple beauty of home.

Keep the Glow Alive

Looking after your soy candles isn’t complicated — it’s simply thoughtful. With a little care, your candles will burn longer, smell stronger, and stay beautiful from the first light to the last flicker.

Explore the Drie Winde Soy Candle Collection, lovingly hand-poured with natural wax and enchanting fragrances to fill your space with warmth, light, and peace.