Candle care
Get the best from every candle
Each ATO candle is hand-poured with care. A few simple habits will give you an even burn, a steady flame and a beautiful scent from the first light to the last.
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1. The first burn
Keep your candle lit until the whole surface is liquid wax, for at least 2–3 hours. This prevents tunnelling and gives you an even burn from then on.
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2. Trim the wick
Before every burn, trim the wick to 3–5mm. A wick trimmer, nail clippers or your nail will do the job.
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3. Burn time
After the first burn, aim for a minimum of 1.5–2 hours each time, and never more than 4 hours in one go.
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4. Put it out gently
Use a snuffer to extinguish the flame. Blowing it out can drop part of the wick into the wax and damage it.
More tips for a perfect burn
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Stop at 1cm
When about 1cm of wax is left in the jar, it's time to stop burning. Burning right to the bottom can overheat the glass.
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Keep the wax pool clear
Remove wick trimmings, matches and any debris from the melted wax so they don't affect the flame.
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Keep the wick centred
If the wick drifts off-centre, gently nudge it back once the wax is soft, then let the flame settle before leaving it.
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Don't move it while lit
Let the flame go out and the wax set fully before moving your candle. Hot wax can spill or burn.
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Keep flammables away
Keep candles well clear of curtains, paper, plants and anything else that could catch fire.
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Store it well
Keep your candle with its lid on in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight, so the scent stays fresh and dust stays out.
Burn safely
Never leave a burning candle unattended. Keep it away from drafts, children and pets, and always place it on a heat-resistant base on a level, stable surface. Light your candle in a well-ventilated area where wind won't disturb the flame, which keeps it steady and minimises smoking.
Common questions
Why is my candle burning down the middle (tunnelling)?
This usually happens when the first burn was too short. On first light, keep the candle burning until the whole surface is liquid wax, for at least 2–3 hours, to help prevent tunnelling later on.
Why is my flame flickering or smoking?
Check for drafts and move the candle to a well-ventilated spot where wind won't disturb the flame. Trim the wick to 3–5mm before each use.
Can I blow my candle out?
We recommend a snuffer. Blowing it out can cause part of the wick to fall into the wax and slightly damage the wick.
How long should I burn my candle for?
The first time, at least 2–3 hours. After that, a minimum of 1.5–2 hours each time and never more than 4 hours in one go.
When should I stop burning my candle?
Stop when about 1cm of wax remains in the jar.
How should I store my candle?
Keep it with the lid on in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight, so the scent stays fresh and dust stays out.
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