Quick answer
If your candle won't stay lit, the most common culprits are a wick that's too short, too much melted wax, or a draft. Trim the wick to 1/4 inch, remove excess wax, and move the candle to a still area. If it still fails to ignite or burns poorly after these fixes, stop using it and consider a new candle.
candle
A candle that sputters and goes out can be frustrating, especially when you're looking forward to a cozy evening. But most burning issues have simple fixes you can do at home. This guide walks you through the most common reasons a candle won't stay lit and how to correct them.
Before you give up on your candle, follow these troubleshooting steps. In most cases, a quick adjustment to the wick or the environment will get it burning steadily again.
Common Causes and Fixes
The first thing to check is the wick. If the wick is too short, the flame may not have enough fuel to sustain itself. Trim the wick to 1/4 inch before each use. If the wick is buried in melted wax, the flame can drown. Let the candle cool, then pour out some wax or use a wick trimmer to expose more wick.
Another frequent issue is a draft. Even a subtle breeze from an open window or an air conditioner can cause the flame to flicker and go out. Move the candle to a draft-free area and try again. Also, make sure the candle is on a level surface so the wax pool is even.
- Trim the wick to 1/4 inch before each lighting.
- Remove any debris or matches from the wax pool.
- Avoid burning longer than 3 hours at a time to prevent the wick from mushrooming.
Wick Problems: Too Long, Too Short, or Drowning
A wick that is too long will produce a large, smoky flame that may also go out. Trim it to the recommended length. A wick that is too short might not have enough exposed cotton to catch the flame. If you can't get the wick to light at all, you may need to replace the candle.
If the wick is drowning in a pool of melted wax, the flame will struggle. This often happens if the candle was burned for a short time and created a deep well. Let the candle cool completely, then carefully scoop out some wax to expose the wick. Alternatively, use a hairdryer on low heat to melt the top and even out the surface.
Environmental Factors: Drafts and Placement
Drafts are a leading cause of candles going out. Check for air vents, ceiling fans, or open doors. Move the candle to a sheltered spot. Also, avoid placing the candle near a window where sunlight can heat the wax unevenly.
The surface matters too. A wobbly table can cause the wax to shift and drown the wick. Always place your candle on a stable, heat-resistant surface. And never leave a burning candle unattended.
When to Stop Troubleshooting and Choose Another Option
If you've trimmed the wick, removed drafts, and the candle still won't stay lit, there may be a manufacturing defect or the wick may be too damaged. Continuing to try can be a fire hazard. Stop using the candle and consider a replacement.
For a reliable burn, look for candles with quality wicks and proper wax formulation. Maisonlouismarie candles are designed to burn evenly when cared for correctly. If you're having persistent issues, it may be time to try a fresh candle.
Diagnosis: Is Your Candle Worth Saving?
- Wick too short: If the wick is less than 1/4 inch, it may not catch or hold a flame. Trim to 1/4 inch and try again. If trimming doesn't help, the wick may be too damaged.
- Wick drowning in wax: Excess melted wax can smother the flame. Let the candle cool and carefully remove some wax to expose the wick. If the wax pool is deeper than 1/2 inch, stop using the candle.
- Draft or unstable surface: Move the candle to a draft-free, level area and re-test. A stable environment is crucial for a steady burn. If it still won't stay lit, the issue may be internal.
Maisonlouismarie Candle Care
- Candle - No.02 Le Long Fond: For an even burn, let your candle melt fully to the edges the first time — about 2 hours. Before each use, trim the wick to 1/4 inch to help prevent black smoke and soot. For best results, avoid burning longer than 3 hours at a time and keep the wax pool free of debris. Following these steps prevents the most common issues that cause a candle to go out, including a too-short wick or a dirty wax pool.
A candle that won't stay lit is usually a simple fix, but safety comes first. If you've tried the steps above and the candle still fails, stop using it and choose a new one. With proper care, your Maisonlouismarie candle should burn beautifully and fill your space with fragrance.
