TL;DR: Most of our candles burn for 45–50 hours—if you treat them right. We’ll show you how to maximize every burn and keep your space smelling fresh longer.
What Affects Burn Time?
- Wax Composition: We use soy-based wax for a clean, even burn. It melts slower than paraffin.
- Wick Quality: Lead-free cotton wicks ensure consistent flame height and fewer relights.
- Vessel Shape: Our wide-mouthed jars allow for a more even melt pool, which helps prevent tunneling and wasted wax.
How to Maximize Candle Life
- Trim your wick to 1/4 inch before each burn to prevent soot and uneven melting.
- Let the wax melt completely to the edges on the first burn (usually 2–3 hours).
- Stick to 2–4 hour burn sessions to prevent overheating and extend life.
- Use a snuffer to extinguish the flame and reduce smoke residue.
Pro Tips
- Assign different scents to different rooms to create a scent journey through your space.
- Layer your scent game: pair candles with our enzyme spray for lingering freshness post-session.
- Store candles with the lid on in a cool, dark place between uses to preserve scent integrity.
What to Avoid
- Don’t skip the first full melt: It sets the memory of the wax and helps prevent tunneling.
- Don’t burn for 6+ hours at a time: Overheating can cause wick issues and scent breakdown.
- Don’t place in drafty areas: Airflow can cause uneven burns and wasted wax.
Scientific Support
All burn time claims are verified through SPME-GC analysis conducted by AirSense Labs in Pasadena, CA. Testing conditions included five residential homes with soft surfaces, 2–4 hour burn sessions, and no airflow interference. Our soy-based wax formula maintained a 48-hour scent throw with less than 6% diffusion variation. Full testing methodology available upon request.
User Quotes
“I light mine every evening while I bathe—still going strong after two weeks.”
– Keisha R., Atlanta, GA
“No tunneling. No weird smells. Just a clean, reliable burn.”
– Taylor M., San Diego, CA
“I use the empty jars for my q-tips and jewelry. They’re too pretty to toss.”
– Janet V., Portland, OR
FAQ
-
How long do Modest & Co. candles last?
Our standard size burns for 45–50 hours with proper care. -
Can I reuse the jar?
Absolutely. Freeze the leftover wax, pop it out, and reuse the jar as a planter, catch-all, or stash container. -
Are your candles clean-burning?
Yes. We use soy-based wax, phthalate-free fragrance, and lead-free cotton wicks. -
When should I stop burning?
Stop when about 1/2 inch of wax remains to avoid heat damage to the jar.
Pair It With
Pair with our terpene-neutralizing spray for a layered odor ritual. Light a candle at the start of your session and spray after to lock in freshness.