Candlera Candle Sand revolutionizes candle-making: pour plant-based granules into any bowl, insert a wick, and enjoy a clean, unscented flame. But even this simple system has wick-related hiccups. Fear not—these 5 common mistakes are easy to fix, ensuring endless, waste-free glow.
Whether you're refilling a favorite ceramic bowl or gifting a holiday set, mastering wicks is key. Let's dive in!
Why Wick Placement Matters in Candle Sand
Unlike wax, Candle Sand doesn't melt—it supports the wick for even burning. Proper placement prevents soot, tunneling, and short burn times. Follow our 3-step guide: Pour, insert wick, light—repeat forever.
Mistake #1: Inserting the Wick Too Shallow
The Problem: A wick buried just 1–2cm deep flops over, causing uneven flames or quick extinguishing.
The Fix: Push the wick base 3–5cm into the sand for stability. Use a skewer to create a pilot hole if needed.
- Pro Tip: Center wicks in bowls under 15cm diameter for balanced heat.
- Result: Steady, tall flame lasting hours.
Safety Note: Always trim to 5mm before lighting.
Mistake #2: Overcrowding Wicks in One Bowl
The Problem: Cramming 5+ wicks creates excessive heat, melting sand edges or cracking glass.
The Fix: Limit to 1 wick per 10cm diameter. For large bowls (20cm+), space wicks 8cm apart.
- Measure bowl width.
- Mark spots with a dot of sand.
- Insert evenly.
This prevents "hot spots" and extends sand life. Stock up on wicks for multi-flame setups.
Mistake #3: Forgetting to Trim the Wick
The Problem: Long wicks (over 8mm) produce mushrooming, soot, and smoky burns—defeating Candle Sand's clean appeal.
The Fix: Trim to 5mm after each burn. Use scissors or a wick trimmer.
- Before lighting: Snip cold wick.
- After extinguishing: Level sand, trim, reuse.
Bonus: Trimming ensures 4–6 hour burns per wick.
Mistake #4: Using Non-Cotton or Wrong-Size Wicks
The Problem: Metal-core or oversized wicks smoke heavily in granulated sand.
The Fix: Stick to Candlera’s 100% cotton, pre-waxed wicks (6cm standard).
- Small bowls: 4cm wicks.
- Large setups: 8cm for deeper sand.
Our wicks burn cleanly—paraffin-free and cruelty-free, just like the sand.
Mistake #5: Not Leveling Sand After Burns
The Problem: Uneven sand creates "tunnels," drowning wicks in craters.
The Fix: After cooling, stir and level with a spoon. Top up from refill packs if low.
- Extinguish flame.
- Wait 10 minutes.
- Smooth surface.
- Re-insert wick.
This maintains even heat distribution for 50+ burns per bag.
Wick Troubleshooting Table
| Symptom | Cause | Quick Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Weak flame | Shallow wick | Re-insert deeper |
| Smoke/soot | Long wick | Trim to 5mm |
| Tunneling | Uneven sand | Level surface |
| Cracking bowl | Too many wicks | Reduce count |
| Fast burnout | Wrong wick | Use Candlera cotton |
Advanced Wick Hacks
- Multi-Wick Magic: Create patterns—hearts or stars—for parties.
- Scent Boost: Add essential oils post-pour (future drops available).
- Travel Tip: Pack sand in ziplocks; wicks in tins.
Safety Reminders
Always:
- Burn on heat-proof surfaces.
- Keep 10cm clearance from flammables.
- Supervise children/pets.
- Extinguish with a snuffer.
FAQs: Candle Sand Wick Wisdom
How often should I replace wicks?
Every 4–6 hours of burn time.
Can I reuse old wicks?
No—trimmed ends smoke. Fresh ones ensure clean burns.
What if my flame drowns?
Dig out, dry sand, re-level, and relight.
Are wicks scented?
No—unscented base for custom additions.
Where to buy extras?
Master Your Glow Today
Avoid these mistakes, and your Candle Sand will outlast traditional candles 10x over. Ready for flawless flames?
