How to Take Care of Your Soy Wax Candle (and Why It Matters)

At Primitive Pansies, we pour our hearts into every candle, whether it's our smooth soy wax jars or golden beeswax tapers. But even the prettiest candle needs a little TLC to burn beautifully and last longer. If you’ve ever watched a candle tunnel like a sad donut or smoke like a campfire, this post is for you.

Whether you're lighting up your bathroom for a self-care soak or setting the mood for a dinner party, here's how to treat your soy wax candle right (so it returns the favor).

First Burn = Most Important Burn

The very first time you light your candle, let it burn long enough for the wax to melt all the way across the surface. This can take 2–3 hours, depending on the jar size. If you blow it out too early, it might tunnel straight down and waste the wax along the sides.

Quick Tip:

Wait until the entire top layer is melted before extinguishing. This helps your candle “remember” to burn evenly next time.

Soy wax candle in a mason jar, featuring 'Primitive Lights – Vanilla Spice.'

Trim the Wick — Every Time

Before each burn, trim your wick to about ¼ inch. A long or crooked wick can:

• Burn too hot

• Smoke or soot

• Mushroom at the tip

• Shorten your candle’s life

No fancy tools needed—a small pair of scissors, nail clippers, or wick trimmers will do the trick.

Keep It Under 4 Hours

Yes, we know it's tempting to let your candle go all day, but try to limit burn sessions to 4 hours max. This:

• Preserves the scent

• Keeps the glass from overheating

• Prevents wick issues like mushrooming or leaning

Think of it like giving your candle a break between performances.

Creamy soy candle in a rustic Mason jar, featuring a "Primitive Lights."

No Drafts, Please

Keep your candle away from fans, open windows, or aggressive air vents. Drafts can cause the flame to flicker, which leads to uneven melting and wasted wax. Find a calm corner where your candle can burn in peace.

Clean the Jar

If soot starts to collect on the inside of the glass, let the candle cool, then wipe the area with a damp cloth or paper towel. It keeps the jar pretty and your air clean.

Unique Decor

Personalization is one of the most captivating aspects of handmade products. Items that reflect your personality can make your home feel unique. Consider custom-made decor, such as personalized wall art, engraved items, or tailored furniture.

Local artists often offer bespoke services, allowing you to commission pieces that fit perfectly into your home. A custom portrait or a piece of artwork reflecting your favorite landscape can serve as a stunning focal point in any room.

Reuse the Jar (Because You're Crafty Like That)

Once you're down to the last half inch of wax, it’s time to say goodbye—but not to the jar. Our soy wax cleans up easily with hot water and soap.

Here are some fun second lives:

• Tiny planter

• Hair tie holder

• Pen cup

• Matchstick jar

• Bathroom stash for Q-tips or bath salts

A charming display of colorful, handmade candles in mason jars and unique shapes adorns a wooden table, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Help the Scent Stick Around

To keep your soy candle smelling fresh:

• Put the lid on (if it has one)

• Store in a cool, dark spot

• Avoid placing next to heavy-smelling items (like food or perfume)

Soy Wax vs. Beeswax: What's the Difference?

Soy Wax

• Burns cooler and a bit faster

• Excellent scent throw—great for daily use

• Smooth, creamy melt

• Needs regular wick trimming

• Ideal for short, cozy burn sessions

Beeswax

• Burns hotter and longer

• Naturally purifies the air

• Smells faintly of honey, even unscented

• More forgiving if you forget to trim the wick

• Loves longer burn times for best performance

In short:

Candle Care Cheat Sheet

• Burn to the edge the first time

• Trim the wick to ¼" before each use

• Keep sessions under 4 hours

• Avoid drafts

• Clean the jar occasionally

• Reuse the jar (because you're resourceful and stylish)

Got a Primitive Pansies candle glowing at home? We’d love to see your setup! Tag us @primitivepansies on Instagram and share your candle care rituals.

Until next time. Burn smart, breathe deep, and enjoy the glow.