How to Choose the Right Wick Size for Your Candles
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Choosing the right wick size is one of the most important—yet often overlooked—steps in candle making. A poorly chosen wick can lead to tunneling, soot, poor scent throw, or even safety hazards. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to select the perfect wick size for your candles based on wax type, diameter, additives, and more. Plus, we’ll show you how using a ToAuto wax melter can help you achieve perfectly melted wax for consistent results.
Why Wick Size Matters
The wick affects:
Burn Quality: Too small → tunneling. Too large → soot & overflow.
Scent Throw: Properly sized wicks help distribute fragrance evenly.
Safety: An incorrect wick can cause flare-ups or glass breakage.
Factors That Influence Wick Size
Candle Diameter
Small containers (under 2″): Smaller wicks (e.g., LX-10, CD-5)
Medium (2–3″): Medium wicks (e.g., LX-12, CD-7)
Large (over 3″): Larger wicks or multiple wicks
Wax Type
Soy Wax: Usually requires larger wicks vs. paraffin.
Paraffin: Works well with standard-sized wicks.
Beeswax/Coconut: Often need specialty wicks.
Fragrance & Dyes
Highly scented or dyed candles may need a bigger wick to melt properly.
Wick Series
Different brands have unique sizing charts. Always refer to the manufacturer’s guide.
General Wick Size Chart
| Candle Diameter | Wax Type | Suggested Wick Size |
|---|---|---|
| Under 2" | Soy | LX-10 or CD-5 |
| 2–3" | Soy | LX-14 or CD-8 |
| 3–4" | Paraffin | LX-18 or CD-10 |
| Over 4" | Coconut Blend | Double wicking |
How to Test Wick Sizes
Make several test candles with different wick sizes.
Burn each for 3–4 hours at a time.
Look for full melt pool (reach jar edges without deep tunneling), steady flame, and clean burn.
Why Use a ToAuto Wax Melter for Consistent Results?
Even the best wick can underperform if your wax isn’t melted consistently. ToAuto wax melters provide:
Precise Temperature Control – Prevents overheating, which can alter wax properties.
Even Melting – No hot spots means better wax texture for wick adhesion.
Time Efficiency – Faster, larger batches let you test wicks more effectively.
Pro Tip: Use your ToAuto wax melter to melt wax at the recommended temperature for your wax type. This ensures optimal viscosity for coating wicks and achieving an even burn.
Troubleshooting Common Wick Issues
Tunneling: Wick too small → size up.
Soot & Smoke: Wick too large → size down.
Flickering/Unstable Flame: Check for drafts or try a stiffer wick.
Selecting the right wick takes experimentation, but it’s worth the effort. Pair your perfected wick with a ToAuto wax melter for professional-grade candlemaking right at home.
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