When and How to Double Wick a Candle (Plus Tips for Triple Wick Candles)

Double-wick candles improve burn performance, even wax pooling, and enhance scent throw. If you’ve ever wondered when to double wick a candle or how to do it properly, this guide covers everything you need to know—including when a triple wick candle might be the better choice.

When to Double Wick a Candle: Signs Your Candle Needs It

There’s no strict rule on when to double wick a candle, but a general guideline is that candles with a diameter of 4 inches or more may benefit from multiple wicks. Here are some signs that indicate a candle could use a second wick:

  • Uneven Wax Pool – If your candle burns down the center but leaves wax on the sides (tunneling), a double wick may help.

  • Weak Scent Throw – A single wick might not generate enough heat to release fragrance oils fully.

  • Large Diameter – Wider candles often struggle to achieve a complete melt pool with just one wick.

  • Excessive Soot or Mushrooming – Larger single wicks tend to burn too hot, causing issues like soot buildup or large carbon deposits at the wick tip.

Benefits of Double Wick Candles: Better Burn and Scent Throw

Switching to double-wick candles can offer several advantages:

  • More Even Wax Burn – Two wicks help create a complete wax melt pool, reducing tunneling.

  • Stronger Fragrance Throw – More melted wax means more fragrance is released into the air.

  • Reduced Soot and Mushrooming – Using two smaller wicks instead of one large wick often results in a cleaner burn.

  • Aesthetic Appeal – Multiple wicks create a visually appealing glow that enhances the ambiance.

How to Double Wick a Candle: Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Choose the Right Wicks – Find a wick size designed for half the diameter of your candle. For example, if making a 5-inch candle, start with wicks suited for a 2.5-inch diameter candle.

  2. Mark Wick Placement – Space the two wicks evenly, about 1 inch apart, ensuring they are not too close to the container's sides.

  3. Secure the Wicks – Use wick stickers or a hot glue gun to keep them in place before pouring wax.

  4. Pour Wax and Let It Cure – Once the wax is poured, allow the candle to cure properly before burning.

  5. Test Burn – Always conduct a test burn to ensure the wicks provide an even melt pool without excessive soot or smoking.

Check out our Candle Making Supplies Collection for essential tools and accessories.

Triple Wick Candles: When to Use Three Wicks Instead of Two

A triple wick candle may be a better option for candles larger than 6 inches in diameter or those with higher fragrance loads that require more heat to fully release their scent. Triple wick candles provide:

  • Faster and More Even Melting – Prevents tunneling in extra-large candles.

  • Maximum Fragrance Release – Ideal for candles with strong scent profiles.

  • Balanced Heat Distribution – Ensures the wax melts evenly across the entire candle surface.

How to Space Wicks for Even Burning in Double and Triple Wick Candles

  • Double Wick Candles – Position wicks about 1 inch apart and centered to allow even wax melting.

  • Triple Wick Candles – Arrange wicks in a triangular formation to distribute heat evenly across the wax surface.

Spacing is crucial—wicks placed too close together can create excessive heat, while wicks too far apart may result in an uneven burn.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Double or Triple Wicking a Candle

  • Using Wicks That Are Too Large – This can cause excessive heat, soot, or fast-burning candles.

  • Placing Wicks Too Close to the Glass – This increases the risk of the container overheating and cracking.

  • Skipping the Test Burn – Every candle formula burns differently; always test to confirm wick performance.

  • Choosing the Wrong Wick Type – Not all wicks perform the same; use ones suitable for your wax type.

Find the right wick in our Candle Wicks Collection to optimize your candle-making process.

Frequently Asked Questions About Double and Triple Wick Candles

Do all large candles need multiple wicks?
Not necessarily. Some single wicks designed for larger diameters can work well, but testing is required to determine the best option.

How do I know if I need a triple wick candle instead of a double wick?
If a double wick isn’t creating a full wax melt pool or if the candle is over 6 inches wide, a triple wick candle may be the better choice.

Will double wicking make my candle burn faster?
Not necessarily. If properly sized, double wick candles burn evenly and efficiently rather than faster.

By following these guidelines, you can determine when to double wick a candle, optimize wick placement, and create high-quality double wick candles or triple wick candles that burn cleanly and evenly.

 

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