How to Fix Candle Tunneling & Burn Your Candle Evenly

Have you ever lit a new candle only to discover a deep hole forming down the center, leaving unused wax around the edges? That phenomenon is called “candle tunneling,” and it can be frustrating—especially when you’ve invested in a luxurious, high-quality candle from a brand like Maison Nomad Noé. The good news is there are simple ways to correct and prevent tunneling so you can enjoy an even, full burn every time.

What Is Candle Tunneling?

Candle tunneling happens when only the wax in the center of the candle melts, forming a “tunnel” around the wick. Over time, this leaves a significant amount of un-melted wax on the sides of the vessel, causing uneven burning and reduced fragrance throw. In some cases, this tunnel can get so deep that the wick eventually drowns in melted wax.

Common Causes of Tunneling

1. Insufficient Burn Time: If you extinguish the candle before the entire top layer of wax has melted to the edges, it sets a “wax memory.”
2. Improper Wick Size: A wick that’s too small may not generate enough heat to melt the full surface of the candle.
3. Environmental Factors: Drafts or cooler room temperatures can cause uneven melting.

1. Prevention Is Key: How to Avoid Tunneling from the Start

1. First Burn Matters Most

   • On your first burn, allow the candle to form a complete melt pool that reaches the edges of the container.
   • This can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the size of the candle.

2. Trim the Wick

   • Before lighting, trim the wick to about 1/4 inch (6-7 mm).
   • A properly trimmed wick helps the flame burn steadily and prevents soot and smoke.

3. Avoid Drafts

   • Keep your candle away from windows, vents, and fans.
   • Drafts can cause uneven burning and flickering flames, leading to tunneling.

4. Use Candle Accessories

   • Candle sleeves or hurricanes help stabilize the flame and maintain an even temperature around the candle.

2. How to Fix an Already Tunneling Candle

If you notice your candle has started to tunnel, don’t worry—it’s not too late to salvage it. Below are a few strategies:

Method 1: Foil Wrap

1. Gather Your Materials

   • Aluminum foil and your tunneling candle.

2. Wrap the Edges

   • Tear off a piece of foil large enough to wrap around the candle’s rim.
   • Leave an opening at the center for the wick and flame.

3. Allow Even Heating

   • Light the candle and let the foil trap the heat along the top edges.
   • The heat will help melt the outer ring of unburned wax.
   • Keep an eye on the flame to ensure it doesn’t overheat.

4. Remove and Re-Trim

   • Once the wax has leveled out, carefully remove the foil.
   • Extinguish the candle, let it cool, and trim the wick if needed before the next burn.

Method 2: Hair Dryer or Heat Gun

1. Heat the Wax

   • Using a hair dryer or heat gun on low to medium heat, carefully warm the top layer of wax, focusing on the unmelted edges.
   • Move the tool in circular motions to evenly distribute the heat.

2. Redistribute the Wax

   • As the wax softens, use a heat-resistant tool (like a spoon) to gently smooth and level the surface.

3. Relight and Check

   • Relight the candle and allow it to burn until the surface is fully liquified and level.

3. Pro Tips for Extended Candle Life and Fragrance

1. Burn in 2–4 Hour Intervals

   • Most candles, including Maison Nomad Noé’s, perform best when burned for a minimum of 2 hours and a maximum of 4 hours at a time.

2. Keep the Wick Centered

   • A crooked wick can cause uneven burning. If you notice the wick leaning, straighten it gently with a wick dipper or a pair of tweezers.

3. Use a Snuffer

   • Blowing out candles can cause splatters and disrupt the wick’s position. A candle snuffer or wick dipper extinguishes the flame more gently.

4. Store Properly

   • Keep your candle in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent discoloration and maintain the scent quality.

4. Why Candle Care Matters

Proper candle care doesn’t just protect your investment; it also enhances your entire sensory experience. When your candle burns evenly:

• Full Fragrance Throw: You’ll enjoy the complete depth of notes your Maison Nomad Noé candle was designed to emit.
• Longer Burn Time: An even burn ensures you use up all the wax, maximizing every hour of burn time.
• A Beautiful Presentation: A clean, even melt pool is visually appealing and maintains the elegance of your candle’s vessel.

5. The Maison Nomad Noé Difference

Each Maison Nomad Noé candle is meticulously crafted using high-quality wax blends, premium wicks, and distinctive fragrances—elements that significantly reduce the likelihood of tunneling when burned correctly. We take pride in creating scents that tell a story, enrich your surroundings, and elevate your everyday moments. By following the care tips outlined here, you’ll ensure that each Maison Nomad Noé candle provides a flawless burn and an unforgettable aromatic experience.

Final Thoughts

Candle tunneling can feel like a minor disappointment, but with the right knowledge and a bit of care, it’s easy to fix—and, more importantly, prevent. Whether you’re new to scented candles or a seasoned enthusiast, implementing these burn practices will help you get the most out of your Maison Nomad Noé collection, ensuring the scent, ambiance, and aesthetic last as long as possible.

Got any candle care questions or success stories to share? Drop us a message or leave a comment below. At Maison Nomad Noé, we’re here to make your candle-burning experience enchanting from first light to final glow.

Disclaimer: Always exercise caution when handling an open flame or hot wax. Burn candles on a heat-resistant surface and follow the safety guidelines provided by your candle’s manufacturer.