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The first burn of a candle, especially for larger and wider candles, should be allowed to create a full melt pool for several hours for several reasons, primarily related to the even and efficient burning of the candle:

1. Memory Ring Formation: Many candles, especially soy or other natural wax candles, have a “memory ring.” This is essentially a wax memory of the first burn. If the initial burn does not create a full melt pool, the candle may “remember” this pattern, and subsequent burns may not reach the outer edges of the previous burn, causing tunneling. Tunneling is when a hole forms down the center of the candle, wasting wax and making it difficult to get an even burn.

2. Preventing Tunneling: Allowing the first burn to create a full melt pool ensures that the entire top layer of wax liquefies evenly. This prevents the formation of a tunnel, and instead, the candle burns evenly from edge to edge with each subsequent use.

3. Optimal Scent Throw: In scented candles, the fragrance oils are most effective when they evaporate from a full melt pool. If the first burn doesn’t create this pool, you might not experience the candle’s full fragrance potential.

4. Extended Candle Life: Burning the candle correctly from the beginning helps maximize its overall burn time. When a candle tunnels early on, it often results in a shorter lifespan for the candle because a significant portion of the wax remains unused.

5. Safety: A full melt pool helps manage the heat generated by the candle. Incomplete melting can lead to uneven and concentrated heat near the wick, which can be a safety concern.

To achieve a full melt pool on the first burn, you should typically allow the candle to burn for at least one hour per inch in diameter of the candle. For example, a 3-inch diameter candle should burn for at least 3 hours during the first use. This ensures the wax is evenly melted across the entire surface, and the candle is set up for a longer, more even, and safe burning experience throughout its life.

1. Never leave a burning candle unattended: Always stay in the same room with a lit candle and make sure to extinguish it when you leave.

2. Keep candles away from flammable materials: Ensure that candles are placed on a stable, heat-resistant surface and are at least 12 inches away from anything that can catch fire, such as curtains, paper, or other decorations.

3. Trim the wick: Before lighting a candle, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch to prevent excessive smoke and uneven burning.

4. Use a proper candle holder: Place candles in sturdy, non-combustible candleholders that are designed for the specific candle size.

5. Keep the area well-ventilated: Ensure there is good airflow in the room to help disperse any potential fumes from the candle.

6. Avoid drafts: Drafts can cause candles to burn unevenly or create a hazard. Keep windows and doors closed to prevent drafts.

7. Place candles out of reach of children and pets: Make sure that candles are not within the reach of curious little hands or playful pets.

8. Never touch a lit candle: Don’t touch the flame or the hot wax while a candle is burning. Use a candle snuffer to extinguish it.

9. Use a candle snuffer or a lid to extinguish the flame: Blowing out a candle can cause hot wax to splatter, so it’s safer to use a snuffer or a lid.

10. Check for debris: Before lighting a candle, make sure there are no foreign objects or debris in the wax, as they can create safety hazards.

11. Don’t burn a candle all the way down: Extinguish the candle when there’s about half an inch of wax remaining to prevent overheating the holder.

12. Place multiple candles apart: If you’re burning multiple candles, ensure they are at least 3 inches apart to prevent them from overheating each other.

13. Use candle alternatives for power outages: During power outages, consider using battery-operated LED candles for safety, especially if you have children or pets.

By following these safety tips, you can enjoy the ambiance and fragrance of candles while minimizing the risk of accidents or fires.

Small to Medium Soy Candles: Small to medium-sized soy candles (such as those in 4-8 oz containers) usually have a burn time of approximately 20 to 40 hours.

Large Soy Candles: Larger soy candles (around 12-16 oz or more) can burn for 50 to 80/100 hours or even longer.

Also, remember, that proper candle care, like trimming the wick and allowing the candle to create a full melt pool on the first burn (see question there ‘The first burn of a candle – Why it’s important?’), can greatly help maximize the burn time of your soy candle.