How to Prevent And Fix Tunneling in Soy Candles 

Have you ever lit your soy candle only to find it burning in a narrow tunnel and wasting precious wax? This uneven burn can steal the cozy glow from your space. 

In this guide, we will share simple and practical ways to fix tunneling soy candles. From the hair dryer trick to using aluminum foil, our candle care tips will help you restore a perfect and even burn. Let’s get started. 

Four Proven Methods to Fix Tunneling in Soy Candles

Below, we’ll share four simple techniques for fixing tunneling in soy candles. Each method is straightforward and effective. Read on to learn how to fix tunneling with these easy methods, extend your candle’s life, and lighten the mood with a steady, glowing flame.

1. The Hair Dryer Method

The hair dryer method is simple and effective. First, trim the wick and remove debris from the tunnel. Then, melt the top layer of wax using a hair dryer. Carefully scrape unmelted wax to help it melt faster. Keep heating until the surface is fully liquid. 

Once it has melted, burn the candle for 30 minutes and allow the soy wax to harden completely. 

Pro tip: Remember to move the hair dryer slowly. This helps the wax melt evenly.

2. The Aluminum Foil Method

This is another effective technique for fixing candle tunneling because aluminum foil is an excellent heat conductor. It helps to retain and evenly distribute warmth across the wax surface.

To follow this method, let your candle burn until the wax develops a proper melt pool. Then, wrap aluminum foil around the top of the candle and make sure to leave an opening (around 1 inch) at the center as shown in the image. 

The foil covers the candle and retains the heat, softening the wax and evening out the burn. After a few minutes, remove the aluminum foil. This approach can be used to fix tunneling soy candles and achieve superior burn quality. 

Pro tip: Handle the wax carefully because it remains hot during this process.

3. The Wax Method 

Sometimes, a small addition of wax can solve the tunneling issue. Allow your candle to cool to room temperature and gently remove excess wax from the tunnel using a spoon. 

Next, carefully add a tiny amount of melted wax from another candle. Evenly distribute the wax across the tunnel’s surface. Once set, relight the candle again—the added wax will create a smooth and even burn pattern. 

4. The Oven Method

Another practical solution for tunneling is the oven method. Preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 200°F (93°C). Place your candle on a baking tray. Let it sit in the oven for a few minutes. Make sure to keep a close eye on it. 

The gentle heat will melt the wax evenly across the top. Once the wax has melted, remove the candle from the oven carefully. If done with caution, this method can quickly fix tunneling in soy candles.

Four Tips for Preventing Tunneling in Soy Candles

Here are some quick tips to help you prevent tunneling and reap the hidden benefits of soy wax candles. 

• Allow your candle to burn long enough to form an even melt pool.
• Cut the wick to 1/4 inch before using the candle. This helps prevent tunneling and ensures the candle burns correctly. 
• Position your candle in a draft-free area to ensure it burns evenly.
• Use a candle snuffer instead of blowing out the candle to prevent wax displacement. 

Fix Tunneling and Enjoy Even Burn!

Proper candle care makes all the difference. By trimming the wick, using an external heat source, and adding a small amount of wax, you can fix tunneling in soy candles and enjoy an even burn. These simple adjustments ensure that your candle forms a complete melt pool, releasing its full fragrance and providing a steady and warm glow.

Visit CR Candles and Gifts for premium, hand-poured soy candles that light up your home with quality and care. Explore our collection today and experience the difference in every flicker!