We're Shedding Some Light On The Most Common Candle Myths 

Candles have been part of our homes for centuries, yet there’s still a surprising amount of misinformation floating around about how they work and how to use them properly. From burn time to soot to wax types, let’s clear the air and debunk some of the most common candle myths.

Myth #1: All candle waxes burn the same

Not all candles are created equal. The type of wax, wick, fragrance load, and even the vessel can dramatically affect how a candle performs.

• Different waxes burn at different temperatures and rates.
• Wick size and material determine how the flame interacts with the wax pool.
• Fragrance load plays a role in how hard the wick has to work to create the melt pool.

When these elements are thoughtfully combined, you get a cleaner burn, stronger fragrance throw, and a longer-lasting candle.

High-quality candles are carefully formulated and tested to ensure they burn safely and evenly.

Myth #2: If a candle tunnels, it’s defective

Tunneling usually isn’t a defect—it’s a burn habit issue.

Candles have a “memory.” If the first burn is too short, the wax may only melt in a small circle around the wick. On future burns, the candle will continue to follow that same pattern.

The best way to prevent tunneling is to burn your candles for 3–4 hours at a time. Keep in mind that coconut wax candles are designed to reach a full melt pool when they get about half way down the jar. This is due to the softer consistency of the wax.

Myth #3: Bigger candle companies make safer or higher-quality candles

It’s easy to assume that large companies automatically produce better or safer candles simply because they’re bigger. But in reality, company size has little to do with candle quality.

A well-made candle comes down to careful formulation, proper wick testing, quality ingredients, and attention to detail. These factors can be achieved by companies of any size—from large manufacturers to small independent makers.

Many smaller candle brands actually spend significant time testing their products to ensure the wax, wick, and fragrance work together properly. This kind of hands-on development allows for thoughtful craftsmanship and quality control.

Larger companies often produce candles at massive scale, while smaller brands may produce in smaller batches with a more hands-on approach. Neither model automatically guarantees better or worse quality.

The safest and best-performing candles come from brands that prioritize good ingredients, proper testing, and responsible manufacturing practices—regardless of how big the company is.

Myth #4: Dried flowers & herbs are safe in candles

Adding decorative elements like dried flowers, petals, herbs, or other materials to candles may look beautiful, but they should never be burned inside a candle. These items are flammable and can easily catch fire - creating a serious safety hazard. Professionally made candles are carefully designed so the wax, wick, and fragrance work together safely during combustion, and introducing foreign materials can disrupt that balance. While botanical decorations may look appealing in photos, a properly made candle should contain only materials that have been specifically tested for safe burning.

Myth #5: Soot means a candle is toxic

A small amount of soot can happen with any flame—including fireplaces, gas stoves, and even oil lamps. However, candles made with a high paraffin wax content are more prone to creating soot than others.

Soot can also be caused by simple factors like:

• A wick that’s too long
• Drafts from vents or fans
• Burning a candle too close to a wall
• Debris in the wax pool

Keeping the wick trimmed and placing candles away from airflow can dramatically reduce soot.

Myth #6: Putting a candle in the fridge makes it last longer

This is one of the oldest candle myths around—and unfortunately, it’s not true.

Cooling wax can cause it to contract or crack, and it doesn’t significantly extend burn time. Instead, focus on proper candle care: trimming the wick, allowing full melt pools, and avoiding overly long burns.

Myth #7: Stronger fragrance means better quality

A candle that smells extremely strong when unlit isn’t necessarily better.

Great fragrance throw is about balance. Too much fragrance oil can actually interfere with how a candle burns and performs. Quality candles are carefully formulated so scent, wax, and wick work together harmoniously.

Myth #8: You should burn candles until they’re completely gone

It’s best to stop burning a candle when about ½ inch of wax remains at the bottom of the container.

Continuing to burn a candle past this point can cause the vessel to overheat, which may damage surfaces underneath or create safety concerns.

The Bottom Line

Candles are meant to be simple luxuries—little moments of comfort in everyday life. Understanding how they work can help you get the best performance, longest life, and most beautiful fragrance experience from each one.

With just a few good habits—like trimming the wick, allowing full melt pools, and placing candles away from drafts—you’ll enjoy a cleaner, longer-lasting burn every time.