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Why Do My Candles Tunnel? (And How to Fix It for Good)
Ever lit a beautiful new candle, only to find it burning straight down the middle and leaving all that precious wax wasted on the sides? That’s candle tunnelling - and it’s one of the most common (and frustrating!) problems candle lovers face.
In this guide, we’ll explain why candles tunnel, how to fix a tunneled candle, and most importantly, how to prevent it from happening in the first place. We’ll also share why choosing a premium candle like Three Suns - known for our crystal candles and signature soy wax blend - makes all the difference.
What Is Candle Tunnelling?
Candle tunnelling is when a candle burns only in the center, creating a narrow "tunnel" down the middle and leaving hard wax stuck to the sides of the jar. Not only does it look messy, but it also wastes your candle (and your money).
🔥 What Causes Tunnelling in Candles?
There are a few main culprits:
- Short Burn Times: The first few burns are critical. If you extinguish the flame too soon before a full melt pool forms, the candle will remember that burn pattern (yep, candles have memory!) and keep tunnelling.
- Wick Issues: A wick that’s too small for the jar can’t generate enough heat to melt all the wax evenly.
- Low-Quality Wax: Cheaper candles often use paraffin or low-grade wax blends that don’t burn cleanly or evenly.
🧼 How to Fix a Tunnelling Candle
Don’t toss that tunneled candle just yet! Try these simple hacks:
- Re Light to Melt & Reset
Use a heat gun to melt the surface wax and even it out. Just make sure to blow off any debris before relighting.
- Candle Warmer Plate
Place your candle on an electric warmer for an even burn without the flame. Bonus: it also enhances the scent throw!
✨ How to Prevent Candle Tunnelling from the Start
- Let it burn long enough: For the first burn, keep your candle lit for 2-4 hours, or until the entire top layer is melted.
- Trim your wick: Always trim to 5mm before lighting to keep the flame at the right height.
- Use high-quality candles: Candles made with premium ingredients and properly wicked are less likely to tunnel.
🧡 Why Three Suns Are the Best Candles in Australia
At Three Suns, we create crystal candles that not only smell divine - they burn beautifully too. Here's why:
- ✨ Crystal-Infused Energy: Each candle contains a carefully chosen crystal to elevate your mood, manifest your intentions, or simply bring good vibes to your space.
- 🌿 Soy Wax Goodness: We only use natural soy wax - no paraffin, no nasties - which burns cleaner, slower, and more evenly.
- 🔥 Perfect Wick-to-Wax Ratio: No tunnelling here! Our candles are expertly designed for an even burn every time.
- 🎁 Thoughtful Gifts for All: Whether it's birthdays, thank you’s, or just-because moments, our candles make thoughtful and aesthetic gifts for her that feel personal and intentional.
From scent to burn performance to presentation, Three Suns crystal candles are more than just candles-they’re rituals in a jar + known as the Best Candles inside Australia.
💫 Ready to Upgrade Your Candle Game?
Say goodbye to tunnelling and hello to clean, beautiful burns every time. Explore the best candles Australia has to offer - shop Three Suns now.