What is what to do when wick is too short?

When your candle wick is too short, it can cause several problems, most notably the candle not staying lit or "drowning" in wax. Here's what you can do:

  • Pour off excess wax: If the wax pool is too deep, it's suffocating the wick. Carefully pour off some of the melted wax into a heat-safe container while the wax is still liquid. This is often the easiest fix. Be sure to do this over a protected surface and avoid splashing.
  • Melt and remove wax: For a more controlled approach, use a heat gun or hair dryer to carefully melt the wax around the wick. Use a paper towel or cotton ball to absorb the melted wax. This is useful for getting rid of wax near the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/wick%20area">wick area</a>.
  • Use a wick extender/booster: These are designed to clip onto the existing wick, providing extra length to keep it burning. You can find these at most craft stores. Be sure to follow instructions for the specific <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/wick%20extender">wick extender</a> you choose.
  • Melt and reposition the wick: If the wick is severely short, you can try to melt all the wax and carefully reposition the wick while it's still molten. This is more difficult and risks damaging the candle. You can use a tool such as a <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/skewer">skewer</a> or chopstick to move the wick.
  • Scrape away the wax: If you have a hard wax (like soy wax), use a spoon or a knife (be careful) to carefully scrape off the top layer of wax, thus exposing more of the wick. This is more effective with <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/soy%20wax">soy wax</a> because it's usually softer.
  • Use a candle warmer: Electric candle warmers melt the wax from the top, eliminating the need for a wick altogether. They provide fragrance without a flame and can salvage a candle with a problematic wick. Consider this as a <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/last%20resort">last resort</a> if other methods fail.

Important Considerations:

  • Safety First: Always exercise extreme caution when dealing with hot wax and flames.
  • Type of Wax: The best approach might vary depending on the type of wax used in your candle.
  • Container: Be mindful of the container your candle is in. Some containers are more fragile than others and may crack with rapid temperature changes.