Candle Safety & Care Guide

Fenwick & Merrick 1894

Our candles are crafted with care — clean‑burning wax, premium wicks, and fragrance blends designed for a refined, atmospheric experience. To ensure the safest and best burn possible, please follow the guidelines below. Proper candle care protects your home, extends burn time, and preserves the quality of your Fenwick & Merrick candle.

Before You Light

Trim the Wick

Before each burn, trim the wick to ¼ inch (6 mm). This prevents:

  • Soot

  • Mushrooming

  • Excessive flame height

A trimmed wick ensures a clean, controlled burn.

Check the Surface

Place your candle on a stable, heat‑resistant surface away from drafts, vents, or fans. Airflow can cause uneven burning or tunneling.

Remove Debris

Ensure the wax surface is free of matches, wick trimmings, or dust.

During the Burn

Let It Melt Edge to Edge

For the first burn, allow the melt pool to reach the edges of the jar — usually 2–3 hours. This prevents tunneling and sets the candle up for an even burn every time.

Burn Time Limits

Do not burn your candle for more than 4 hours at a time. Long burns can cause:

  • Overheating

  • Wick drifting

  • Excessive flame height

Never Leave Unattended

Always stay in the room while your candle is burning. Keep away from:

  • Children

  • Pets

  • Flammable materials

Jar Safety

The jar will become warm — this is normal. Do not touch or move the candle until the wax has fully cooled and solidified.

After You Extinguish

Extinguish Safely

Use a snuffer or gently dip the wick into the melted wax and straighten it. This reduces smoke and helps the wick stay centered.

Let It Cool

Allow the candle to cool completely before relighting or moving it.

Re‑Center the Wick

If the wick drifts, gently nudge it back to center while the wax is still warm. A centered wick ensures even burning.

Maximizing Candle Life

  • Keep the wick trimmed

  • Avoid drafts

  • Burn long enough to reach a full melt pool

  • Stop using the candle when ½ inch (12 mm) of wax remains

This final bit of wax protects the jar from overheating.

Common Issues & Fixes

Tunneling

Cause: Short burns Fix: Burn for longer sessions until the melt pool evens out.

Soot or Smoke

Cause: Wick too long Fix: Trim to ¼ inch before lighting.

Weak Scent Throw

Cause: Small room airflow or short burn Fix: Allow a full melt pool and avoid drafts.

Uneven Flame

Cause: Wick off‑center Fix: Re‑center wick while wax is warm.

Safety First

  • Never burn a candle near anything flammable

  • Never leave a burning candle unattended

  • Keep out of reach of children and pets

  • Do not burn candles on uneven or unstable surfaces

  • Do not use water to extinguish a candle

These guidelines ensure a safe, enjoyable burn every time.

Crafted With Care

Fenwick & Merrick 1894 candles are made to be enjoyed — safely, confidently, and with the same attention to detail we put into every batch. Following this guide ensures your candle performs beautifully from the first light to the last.

If you ever have questions about candle care or performance, we’re here to help.