Have you ever considered how long a candle typically burns? This is a key factor that affects people’s purchasing decisions for candles, as some types are preferred over others. In this article, we will explore which type of candle wick burns the longest and examine whether the material used has an impact.
Why is this important, you might ask? Understanding the longevity of different wicks helps make informed choices for candle-making and purchasing.
The average burning time of a candle wick varies based on the wax, the wick or candle size, the thickness of the wick, the type of material the wick is made of, the ambient temperature, storage, usage, and lastly, how well the wick is trimmed. The composition of the wick, whether it’s cotton, hemp, or wood, plays a pivotal role in determining the candle’s burn rate and efficiency.
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Even though we know the average burning time may vary due to other factors such as how well you made your candle, how you did the first burn of your candle, and whether your candle tunneled or maybe sank in the middle. This article did not add these factors because they are not very common.
Explore our comprehensive guides on selecting suitable wax and ensuring candle safety for more insights into candle making and care.
What Is The Average Burning Time Of A Candle?
The average burning time of a candle can vary greatly depending on the type of candle and how it is used. For example, a standard paraffin wax candle has an average burning time of 4-8 hours, while a beeswax candle has an average burning time of 6-8 hours. A soy candle has an average burning time of around 10-12 hours.
When discussing the average burning time of a candle, it is important to note that this is just an estimate and can be affected by many factors, such as the size of the candle, the ambient temperature, and whether or not the wick is trimmed properly.
Here is a table with the approximate burning time of some common candle types:
| Candle Type | Average Burning Time |
| Paraffin Wax | 4-8 |
| Beeswax | 6-8 |
| Soy | 10-12 |
| Palm Wax | 8-12 |
| Gel | 20-30 |
What Makes A Candle Wick Burn Long?
Several factors can affect the burning time of a candle and make a candle wick burn longer. Some of these factors include:
- Candle Material – Different types of waxes and wicks can affect burning time. For example, beeswax and soy candles typically have a longer burning than paraffin wax candles.
- Wick Size – The thickness of the wick can also affect burning time. A thicker wick will burn slower and longer than a thinner wick. To know how thick a candle should be, check out this article.
- A wick’s thickness directly influences the candle’s burning mechanism, affecting the burn’s duration and consistency.
- Candle Size – The candle size can also affect the burning time. A larger candle will typically burn longer than a smaller candle.
- Environmental Factors – Ambient temperature and humidity can affect how quickly a candle burns. A candle will burn faster in a hot and dry environment, while a candle will burn slower in a cool and humid environment.
- Trimming the Wick – Trimming the wick to the right length can help keep the candle burning longer. When the wick is too long, it will burn faster and consume more wax.
- Proper Storage – Candles should be stored in a cool, dry place from direct sunlight to prevent them from melting or becoming too soft. This will prolong the burning time of the candle.
- Proper use – Proper usage of the candle by not blowing it out and keeping it away from drafts can help the candle burn longer.
It’s worth noting that, in general, the longer the wick and larger the candle, the longer it will burn, but also, the bigger the candle, the more wax will be consumed, and the more soot will be produced. If you plan on making your own candle wick, check out this step-by-step guide.
Do Thicker Candles Burn Longer Than Thin Ones?
Thicker candles generally burn longer than thinner ones because they have more wax available to burn. However, the burn time of a candle can also be affected by other factors, such as the wax’s quality, the wick’s size, and the surrounding environment.
What Candle Wick Burns The Longest?
The burning time of a candle wick can vary depending on the type of wick and the conditions in which it is used. Some wick types that are known for having a longer burning time include:
- Cotton wicks – Cotton wicks are the most common type of wick and are known for their good burning time. They are easy to light and maintain and suitable for most waxes.
- Hemp wicks – Hemp wicks are made from natural hemp and are known for their long burning time. They burn cleanly and are relatively easy to light.
- Wood wicks – Wood wicks are made from thin pieces of wood and are known for their long burning time and crackling sound when they burn. They burn cleanly and are suitable for most types of waxes.
- Paper wicks – Paper wicks are made from paper and are known for their long burning time and clean burn. They are suitable for most types of waxes.
Here is a table with the approximate burning time of some common wick types:
| Wick Type | Burning Time (Hours) |
| Cotton | 4-8 |
| Hemp | 6-10 |
| Wood | 4-8 |
| Paper | 1-4 |
It is worth noting that this table is not exhaustive and that other wick types may have different burning times. The burning time of the wick also depends on the size of the wick and the conditions in which it is used.
Discover more about candle crafting and how different waxes influence burning times in our detailed article, ‘Which Type of Candle Wax Burns Longest?‘ This article delves deeper into the intricacies of candle making, offering valuable insights for hobbyists and professionals.
How Can I Increase The Burning Time Of A Candle?
There are several ways to increase the burning time of a candle:
- Selecting Candle Type – Different types of candles have different burning times. For example, beeswax and soy candles typically have a longer burning time than paraffin wax candles.
- Selecting a Candle Wick – Different types of wicks have different burning times. For example, cotton, hemp, wood, and paper wicks are known for having a longer burning time.
- Trim the wick – Trimming the wick to the right length before lighting the candle can help keep the candle burning longer. When the wick is too long, it will burn faster and consume more wax.
- Keep the Candle in a Dry Place – Storing the candle in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight will prevent it from melting or becoming too soft, which can prolong the burning time.
- Burn the Candle in Multiple Sessions – Instead of burning the candle for a prolonged period of time, burn it in shorter sessions. This will help the candle burn more evenly and last longer.
- Keep the Candle Away from Flammable Materials – Keep the candle away from flammable materials like curtains, paper, or other items that can catch fire.
