Why We Switched to Wooden Wicks for Our Candles
Why We Switched to Wooden Wicks: The Story Behind Your Favourite Candle's Upgrade
The Bare Home switched to wooden wicks for our candles because we believe in making small, thoughtful choices that add up to a cleaner home and a healthier planet. Wooden wicks align perfectly with our commitment to sustainability-sourced from responsibly managed forests, they burn more cleanly and produce less soot than traditional cotton wicks. Plus, wooden wicks create that signature, gentle crackling sound turning any space into a relaxing retreat while delivering a consistent, high-quality candle experience you can feel good about lighting every day.
Superior Scent Throw That Fills the Room
Wooden wicks create a wider flame that melts wax more evenly across the entire surface, releasing scent more effectively than cotton wicks. The wood naturally absorbs and distributes essential oils more evenly, offering a longer-lasting and more consistent scent release throughout your space. Studies show that wooden wicks can push up to 35% more fragrance throw into a room compared to cotton wicks.
Even, Clean Burn Every Time
Say goodbye to tunnelling and uneven burns. Wooden wicks produce a wider, more stable flame that ensures the wax melts evenly across the entire candle surface. This means less wasted wax, fewer sooty residues, and a longer-lasting burn time. Unlike cotton wicks that can "mushroom" and produce excess carbon buildup, wooden wicks burn cleaner with minimal soot and debris.
Sustainability That Aligns with Your Values
Our wooden wicks are FSC Certified, meaning the wood originates from responsibly managed forests certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. This certification ensures sustainable harvesting practices, promoting environmental conservation and social responsibility throughout the entire supply chain. Plus, they're 100% biodegradable and toxin-free.
The Crackling Ambiance Experience
There's something special about the gentle crackling sound of a wooden wick candle-it's like bringing a cosy fireplace into any room. That warm, subtle crackle pairs with natural scents to create a multi-sensory experience, transforming your space into a peaceful retreat. Lighting a wooden wick candle isn't just about the glow, it's a little ritual that brings a sense of calm and gentle ambiance to any moment.
How to Keep Your Wooden Wick Candle Burning Beautifully
To get the most out of your wooden wick candle, follow these simple care tips:
Trim the Wick Before Each Use: Before lighting your candle for the first time (and between uses), trim the wick to about a quarter of an inch. This helps ensure a clean, even burn and prevents excessive smoking.
Allow for Even Melting: Let the wax melt evenly across the entire surface during each use. This prevents tunnelling and extends the life of your candle, giving you more hours of enjoyment.
Regular Maintenance: Keep your candle in top condition by trimming off any charred wood between burns. This prevents mushrooming and ensures a consistent, clean flame every time you light it.
The Bottom Line
Switching to wooden wicks wasn't just about following a trend-it was about delivering a better candle experience that aligns with our commitment to quality, sustainability, and your well-being. From superior scent throw and cleaner burns to eco-friendly sourcing and that irresistible crackling sound, wooden wicks elevate every moment you spend with your candle.
FAQ: Why We Switched to Wooden Wicks
Q: Are your wooden wicks sustainably sourced?
A: Absolutely. Our wooden wicks are FSC Certified, meaning the wood comes from responsibly managed forests that meet strict environmental and social standards. FSC certification ensures sustainable harvesting practices and supports forest conservation.
Q: Do wooden wicks contain toxins?
A: No. Our wooden wicks are 100% non-toxin and biodegradable, making them safe for your home and the environment.
Q: How do I care for a wooden wick candle?
A: It's simple. Before each use, trim the wick to about a quarter inch to ensure a clean, even burn. Allow the wax to melt evenly across the surface during each burn, and remove any charred wood between uses to prevent mushrooming. These small steps keep your candle burning beautifully.
Q: Will wooden wicks crackle every time I light my candle?
A: Wooden wicks typically produce a gentle crackling sound, especially when first lit. However, the intensity can vary depending on moisture levels in the wood and how the candle has been stored. If your candle isn't crackling, ensure you're trimming the wick properly and allowing wax to pool evenly.
Q: How long do wooden wick candles last compared to cotton wicks?
A: Wooden wick candles often burn longer and more efficiently than cotton wicks because they create an even melt pool. By preventing tunnelling and waste, you get more hours of burn time for your money.
Q: Are wooden wick candles more expensive than cotton wick candles?
A: Wooden wick candles may cost slightly more upfront, but they offer better burn performance, longer burn time, superior scent throw, and a premium experience-making them excellent value. Plus, you're investing in a sustainably sourced product.
Q: What should I do if my wooden wick candle tunnels?
A: If tunnelling occurs, it's usually because the candle wasn't allowed to melt fully across the surface during the first burn. To prevent this, burn your candle for at least 2-3 hours during the first use to ensure an even melt pool. If tunnelling has already happened, carefully trim the wick and allow the remaining wax to pool evenly on subsequent burns.
Q: Are wooden wicks better for the environment than cotton wicks?
A: Yes. Wooden wicks are sourced from sustainably managed forests (FSC Certified), are 100% biodegradable, and produce cleaner burns with less soot and carbon buildup. Cotton wicks, while natural, don't offer the same environmental certifications or sustainability tracking. Our wooden wicks represent a more conscious choice.
Q: Do wooden wicks work with soy and coconut wax blends?
A: Yes, absolutely. Our wooden wicks are designed to work perfectly with our ethically sourced coconut and soy wax blend, creating an optimal burn experience with consistent scent release.
Q: Where does the wood for your wicks come from?
A: Our wooden wicks come from FSC Certified sources, meaning the wood is harvested from responsibly managed forests that prioritize environmental conservation and social responsibility. This certification ensures transparency and accountability throughout the supply chain.
Q: Can I reuse or recycle wooden wick candles?
A: Once your candle has burned down, both the wooden wick and the coconut-soy wax are biodegradable. You can compost the wick or use the empty glass jar for storage or repurposing. The wax can also be safely composted.
Q: How is The Bare Home's switch to wooden wicks part of your sustainability mission?
A: Every choice we make reflects our commitment to making sustainable living accessible and normal. Switching to wooden wicks is one of many steps-from non-toxic formulas to plastic-free packaging to FSC Certified materials-that show we're serious about reducing toxic chemicals and respecting the planet whilst delivering quality you can trust.
About the Author
Ashley James
Founder of The Bare Home
Ashley James is the founder of The Bare Home and a passionate advocate for sustainable living in Canada. With years of experience creating non-toxic, eco-friendly home essentials, Ashley is driven by the belief that caring for your family and caring for the planet go hand in hand. She shares accessible tips for greener living and celebrates progress over perfection-because small choices add up to a more sustainable world.
