One of the most common questions candle buyers ask is how long their candle should last. The answer depends on several factors, but understanding them helps you get the most from every purchase.
What affects candle burn time?
Burn time is determined by a combination of wax type, vessel size, wick size, and fragrance load. Here is how each factor plays a role:
- Wax type: Soy wax burns cooler and more slowly than paraffin, giving a longer burn time for the same amount of wax. A soy candle will typically outlast a paraffin candle of the same size by 30 to 50 percent.
- Vessel size: More wax means more burn time. A small votive candle might last 10 to 15 hours, while a large jar candle can burn for 60 hours or more.
- Wick size: A wick that is too large for the vessel burns hotter and faster, consuming wax more quickly. A correctly sized wick produces a controlled flame and a longer, cleaner burn.
- Fragrance load: Heavily fragranced candles can sometimes burn slightly faster as the fragrance oils contribute to the fuel. The difference is usually minor with quality candles.
Typical burn times by candle size
- Small tealights (10 to 15g): 4 to 6 hours per tealight
- Small tin or jar (100 to 150g): 20 to 30 hours
- Medium jar (200 to 250g): 35 to 50 hours
- Large jar (300g and above): 50 to 80 hours
These are approximate figures. Always check the manufacturer's stated burn time, as it will be specific to that candle's wax, wick, and vessel combination.
How to maximise your candle's burn time
The single biggest factor within your control is how you burn the candle. Follow these habits to get the most from every candle:
- Trim the wick to 5mm before every burn
- Allow the melt pool to reach the edges on the first burn
- Never burn for more than 4 hours at a time
- Keep the candle away from draughts
- Stop burning when 1cm of wax remains
Following these steps consistently can add several hours to the life of a candle compared to burning it without care.
Is a longer burn time always better?
Not necessarily. A candle with a very long burn time at a low price point may be using a cheaper wax or a lighter fragrance load. The best value comes from a candle that burns cleanly, throws its scent well throughout its life, and lasts a reasonable amount of time. Those qualities together are more important than raw hours.
Our Scented Soy Candles are designed for a clean, long-lasting burn. Check each product page for the specific burn time, or browse our Best Sellers to find a candle that suits your space.