How to Care for Lacquered Taper Candles

Quick Answer

To care for lacquered taper candles, trim the wick to 1/4 inch before each burn, let the wax pool reach the edge, and store them upright in a cool, dry place to preserve the lacquer finish.

5 Steps to Care for Lacquered Taper Candles

1. Trim the wick to 1/4 inch: Before each burn, use a wick trimmer or scissors to cut the wick to about 1/4 inch. This prevents soot and keeps the flame steady. If the wick is too long, it can cause the lacquer to darken from smoke. Always trim before the first light, not after.
2. Let the first burn reach the edges: When you light a new candle, let it burn until the entire top layer of wax is liquid, reaching the edges of the candle. This may take 1–2 hours. For twisted candles, this ensures the melted wax pools evenly around the sculpted design. Don't extinguish before the full melt, or you'll get tunneling.
3. Burn for 4–5 hours maximum: Extinguish the candle after 4–5 hours of continuous burning. This prevents overheating, which can soften the lacquer and cause the wax to drip unevenly. If you need more time, let it cool, trim the wick, and relight. Long burns can cause the wick to mushroom; reset with a trim.
4. Extinguish safely and recenter the wick: Use a snuffer or dip the wick into the melted wax to extinguish, then straighten the wick while the wax is still soft. This keeps the wick centered for even burning on the next use and prevents smoke stains on the lacquer. Avoid blowing out the candle; it can splatter wax and dull the finish.
5. Store upright in a cool, dry place: Keep your candles upright in a holder or a box that prevents them from rolling. Avoid direct sunlight and humid areas, as heat and moisture can make the lacquer tacky or faded. Dust gently with a soft cloth when unlit. Proper storage preserves the sheen and prevents chipping.

Candles That Reward Proper Care

• Lacquered Twisted Taper Candles, White, Set of 6: Hand-poured in Italy using a premium soy wax blend, each candle burns cleanly for 4–5 hours. Knowing the burn time helps you plan your dinner party so you can extinguish and relight if needed, preserving both the lacquer and the flame quality.

  

• Lacquered Twisted Taper Candles, Gold, Set of 6: These candles are beautifully lacquered to prevent chipping and are as beautiful unlit as they are glowing. The lacquer finish means they double as decor, so storing them upright and dusting gently keeps them display-ready between uses.