Understanding the Causes of Candles Sinking in the Middle
Poor Quality Wax
One of the primary reasons why candles sink in the middle is due to poor quality wax. Low-quality wax tends to melt unevenly, leading to a depression in the middle. It is essential to choose high-quality wax that is specifically designed for candle making.
Inadequate Wick Size
Another common cause of candles sinking in the middle is the use of the wrong wick size. The wick should match the diameter of the candle to ensure proper burning. A wick that is too small will not be able to draw enough wax up to the flame, resulting in a depression in the middle.
Insufficient Wax Melt Pool
The wax melt pool is the melted wax that forms around the wick while burning. If the wax melt pool is not deep enough, the candle will burn unevenly, resulting in a depression in the middle.
Ambient Temperature
The ambient temperature in the room where the candle is burning can also affect its performance. Candles should be kept away from drafts and should be burned at a temperature of around 20-25°C.
Tips to Prevent Candles from Sinking in the Middle
Use High-Quality Wax
To prevent candles from sinking in the middle, it is crucial to use high-quality wax that is specifically designed for candle making. Soy wax, beeswax, and paraffin wax are all excellent choices that produce candles with an even burn.
Choose the Right Wick Size
The wick size should match the diameter of the candle to ensure proper burning. It is essential to choose the right wick size to prevent candles from sinking in the middle. Wick charts are available that provide guidance on selecting the correct wick size for a particular candle.
Use a Wick Stabilizer
A wick stabilizer is a metal or plastic device that holds the wick in place while the candle is being poured. It helps to ensure that the wick remains centered and straight, which can prevent candles from sinking in the middle.
Keep the Wax Melt Pool Deep Enough
The wax melt pool should be deep enough to ensure that the candle burns evenly. A good rule of thumb is to allow the candle to burn for at least one hour per inch of diameter, ensuring that the wax melt pool reaches the edges of the container.
Burn Candles in Draft-Free Environments
Candles should be burned in draft-free environments to prevent uneven burning. Drafts can cause the candle flame to flicker, resulting in an uneven melt pool and a sinking candle.
Store Candles Properly
Candles should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Exposure to heat and sunlight can cause candles to soften or melt, which can lead to sinking.
Conclusion
Sinking candles can be a frustrating experience, but by understanding the causes and implementing practical solutions, this problem can be easily prevented. Using high-quality wax, choosing the right wick size, using a wick stabilizer, keeping the wax melt pool deep enough, burning candles in draft-free environments, and storing candles properly are all essential steps in ensuring that your candles burn evenly and beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use a smaller wick to make my candle burn longer?
No, using a smaller wick than what is recommended for your candle size can lead to uneven burning and sinking in the middle. It is essential to use the right wick size to ensure proper burning and prevent sinking.
How deep should the wax melt pool be for a candle?
The wax melt pool should be deep enough to reach the edges of the container to ensure that the candle burns evenly. A good rule of thumb is to allow the candle to burn for at least one hour per inch of diameter.