Candle tunneling is a common problem that occurs when the wax around the wick melts faster than the rest of the candle, creating a tunnel-like shape. This can result in wasted wax, uneven burning, and reduced fragrance. Fortunately, there are some simple ways to fix candle tunneling and enjoy your candles to the fullest.
1. The easiest way: Use a aluminium foil wrap.
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One of the easiest ways to fix candle tunneling is to use a piece of aluminum foil to wrap around the top of the candle, leaving a small opening for the wick. This will create a heat barrier that will help melt the wax evenly and prevent tunneling. Make sure to remove the foil after 15 to 20 minutes or when the wax pool reaches the edge of the candle.
2. For minor candle tunneling: Use a hair dryer
This involves using a hair dryer to melt the wax around the candle's edges. Hair dryer is a safer choice. But it you have a heat gun, you can use a heat gun for a quick result. Be careful not to overheat the wax or burn yourself. You may need to tilt the candle slightly to pour some excess melted wax.
3. For tealight lover: Use a spoon
A third way to fix candle tunneling is to use a metal spoon to scoop out the excess wax around the wick. This will create more space for the wick to burn and reduce the risk of tunneling. You can either discard the wax or reuse it for other purposes, such as making wax melts or tealight if you are a tealight lover.
How to prevent from candle tunneling?
While candle tunneling is fixable in most scenarios, don't just leave the tunneling worsening. The deeper the tunnel has formed, the harder you could possbily rescue The best way to prevent candle tunneling is to avoid it in the first place by following these tips and make it a habit:=
1. Trim your wick
Before lighting your candle, trim your wick to about 5-6mm with a wick trimmer or scissors. This will help create a smaller, more even flame that will melt the wax more efficiently.
2. Burn your candle long enough
As mentioned earlier, you need to burn your candle for at least two hours, the first burn and every subsequent burn. This will ensure that all the wax on the surface melts evenly and creates a wide melt pool that will prevent tunneling.
3. Rotate the candle during the first burn
After approximately 15 minutes of the first burn, you can gently pick up the candle and rotate it to ensure that the melted wax spreads evenly across the entire surface. This helps prevent candle tunneling effect from occurring.
4. Burn your candle in a draft-free area
Avoid placing your candle near windows, fans, air conditioners, or other sources of air movement that can cause uneven heat distribution and affect how your candle burns. Choose a stable, flat surface away from flammable materials and children or pets.
5. Store your candle properly
Last but not least, keep your candle away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or extreme temperatures that can affect its quality and appearance. You can also cover your candle with a lid or wrap it in plastic wrap when not in use to prevent dust or debris from accumulating on its surface.
Key Takeaways
Use Aluminium foil to cover around the top of the candle and make sure the foil reaches over the tunneled wax.
Use a hair dryer to heat the uneven wax on the surface if the tunnel is minor
Use a spoon to scoop out the excess wax if you know how to do with the leftover wax.
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