Trim the wick: Keep it about 1/4 inch (5 mm) long for a clean, even burn and to prevent high flames and soot. Clear debris: Remove any wick trimmings or matches from the wax pool. Position safely: Place on a flat, stable, heat-resistant surface, away from flammable items, children, and pets. Create a wax pool: Burn long enough (1-2 hours) for the melted wax to reach the edges to avoid tunnelling (wax building up on the sides). Avoid drafts: Keep away from windows, fans, or vents, which cause uneven burning and soot. Limit burn time: Do not burn for more than 3–4 hours at a time. Never leave unattended: always keep a burning candle in sight.