Why Your Candle Flame Is Too High (And How to Fix It)
So, you lit your favorite candle, expecting calm vibes and cozy feels, but instead, your flame is going rogue like it’s auditioning for a fire hazard warning.
If you’ve found yourself wondering, why is my candle flame so high? You’re definitely not the only one.
Why Is My Candle Flame So High?
Short answer? It’s probably trying to tell you something. An unusually tall candle flame isn’t just dramatic. It could be a sign that the candle needs a quick fix to burn the way it’s supposed to.
Let’s break down the usual suspects.
1. The Wick’s Too Long
When the wick isn’t trimmed before lighting, it can burn too hot and pull too much wax into the flame. That creates a high flame and usually some smoke. Not cute.
2. It’s Sitting in a Draft
Windows, vents, and fans all mess with your candle’s ability to burn calmly. Even a light breeze can feed a flame more oxygen than it needs, making it go wild.
3. You Didn’t Let It Burn Long Enough the First Time
Candles actually have a “memory,” which means they remember how they burned the first time. If you blow it out too early on that first burn, it may tunnel and burn unevenly after that, which can affect the flame height later.
4. Cheap Ingredients
Not all candles are made with care. Some use paraffin blends or synthetic additives that burn hotter or produce dirtier emissions.
A cleaner wax (like soy) paired with an appropriately sized wick makes a big difference.
Are cheap candles worth it? Definitely not.
How to Fix a Candle Flame That’s Too High
Don’t worry, this isn’t a lost cause. You can almost always fix a misbehaving flame with a couple of quick tweaks.
Trim the Wick
If it looks like a torch, it’s time for a trim. Aim for about 1/4 inch. Wick trimmers are nice, but honestly, scissors will work in a pinch.
Move It Somewhere Still
Set your candle in a draft-free zone. If it’s flickering like crazy or leaning to one side, it’s probably getting hit with airflow.
Let It Burn Right Next Time
On the next fresh burn, let it go long enough (usually 2–3 hours) so the melt pool reaches the edge of the jar. That helps it burn more evenly moving forward.
Choose Quality Candles
Let’s be honest. Some candles don’t behave because they weren’t built to. That’s why at Southern Oak Artisan, we’re big on clean ingredients, appropriately sized wicks, and tested burn times. No weird chemicals. No mystery flames.
Is It Dangerous?
It can be. A flame that’s too high can overheat the container, cause smoke damage, or, in the worst case, become a fire risk. Never leave a candle unattended (we know, you know, but still), and blow it out if it starts getting too intense.
One Last Thing…
If your candle’s acting up and it’s one of ours, let us know. We’re always here to help you get the cozy experience you signed up for. Clean burns only.
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